What Happens to Emily at the End of Corpse Bride: A Detailed Analysis

Tim Burton’s “Corpse Bride” is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant animated film that explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the afterlife. One of the most compelling aspects of the movie is the character of Emily, the Corpse Bride herself. Her journey from a betrayed and murdered bride to a selfless spirit is central to the narrative. Understanding what happens to Emily at the end of Corpse Bride requires a close examination of her motivations, her relationship with Victor, and the ultimate resolution of her tragic past. This article delves into the intricacies of Emily’s fate, providing a detailed analysis of her character arc and the significance of her final act.

Emily’s Tragic Backstory

Before dissecting what happens to Emily at the end of Corpse Bride, it’s crucial to understand her origins. Emily was a young woman who was eloping with a mysterious stranger. She ran away from her home with her dowry, only to be robbed and murdered by her betrothed. He left her in the woods, where she died heartbroken and alone. This traumatic event transformed her into the Corpse Bride, forever bound to the land of the dead, yearning for the love and companionship she was denied in life. Her longing for a husband is not merely a superficial desire; it represents her deeper need for closure and peace.

The Accidental Marriage and Victor’s Dilemma

The central conflict of “Corpse Bride” arises when Victor Van Dort, practicing his wedding vows in a forest, inadvertently slips the wedding ring onto Emily’s skeletal finger. This act legally binds him to her in the underworld. Victor, a timid and awkward young man, is initially terrified of Emily and desperate to return to his intended bride, Victoria Everglot. However, as he spends time with Emily in the Land of the Dead, he begins to see her as more than just a ghoulish figure. He witnesses her kindness, her vulnerability, and the deep pain that fuels her desire for love. This creates a complex dilemma for Victor, torn between his duty to Victoria and his growing empathy for Emily. The question of what happens to Emily at the end of Corpse Bride is intrinsically tied to Victor’s ultimate decision.

Emily’s Selfless Act of Love

The climax of the film occurs when Victor, having returned to the Land of the Living, prepares to marry Emily to fulfill his vow. However, he soon learns that Victoria is being forced into a loveless marriage with the villainous Lord Barkis Bittern. Emily, upon witnessing Victor’s genuine love for Victoria, realizes that she cannot stand in the way of their happiness. In a pivotal moment of self-sacrifice, Emily steps aside, allowing Victor to return to Victoria. This is a profound turning point in Emily’s character arc, demonstrating her capacity for true love and her willingness to prioritize another’s happiness over her own. Understanding what happens to Emily at the end of Corpse Bride involves recognizing the significance of this selfless act.

The Confrontation with Lord Barkis

Before Emily can find her final peace, she must confront her past. Lord Barkis, revealed to be Emily’s murderer, arrives at the church, intent on marrying Victoria for her family’s wealth. He callously boasts about his past crimes, including the murder of Emily. This revelation incites the inhabitants of the Land of the Dead, who rise up to defend Emily’s honor. In a moment of poetic justice, Barkis accidentally drinks poison, and the undead drag him down to the Land of the Dead, where he is condemned to an eternity of suffering. This confrontation is crucial to what happens to Emily at the end of Corpse Bride, as it allows her to finally achieve closure and avenge her death.

Emily’s Ascension and Final Peace

With Barkis defeated and Victor free to marry Victoria, the stage is set for Emily’s final release. As Victor and Victoria exchange vows, Emily releases Victor from his promise, acknowledging that their love is true and that she can no longer stand in their way. In a touching scene, Emily removes the wedding ring from Victor’s finger and places it back on her own. As she does so, the moonlight bathes her in a ethereal glow, and her skeletal form transforms into a shower of butterflies. These butterflies ascend into the sky, symbolizing Emily’s spirit finally finding peace and freedom. This is the culmination of what happens to Emily at the end of Corpse Bride, a resolution that is both bittersweet and deeply satisfying.

The Symbolism of the Butterflies

The transformation of Emily into butterflies is a powerful symbol of metamorphosis and liberation. Butterflies are often associated with transformation, rebirth, and the soul’s journey to the afterlife. In Emily’s case, the butterflies represent her release from the earthly bonds that have held her captive for so long. They signify her transition from a tormented spirit to a being of pure light and joy. This imagery reinforces the idea that what happens to Emily at the end of Corpse Bride is not merely an ending but a beginning – a new chapter in her eternal existence.

The Significance of Emily’s Sacrifice

Emily’s ultimate sacrifice is the heart of “Corpse Bride’s” message. She teaches us that true love is not about possession or control but about selflessness and compassion. By choosing to let Victor go, Emily demonstrates a depth of love that transcends her own desires. Her act of kindness not only allows Victor and Victoria to find happiness but also frees her from the cycle of pain and resentment that has defined her existence. The resolution of what happens to Emily at the end of Corpse Bride underscores the importance of empathy, forgiveness, and the power of love to heal even the deepest wounds.

Thematic Resonance and Critical Reception

The ending of “Corpse Bride,” and specifically what happens to Emily at the end of Corpse Bride, has resonated with audiences and critics alike. The film’s themes of love, loss, and redemption are universally relatable, and Emily’s character arc is particularly poignant. Critics have praised the film’s visual artistry, its emotional depth, and its nuanced portrayal of the afterlife. The ending, in particular, has been lauded for its bittersweet beauty and its satisfying resolution of Emily’s tragic story. The film’s success lies in its ability to blend dark humor with genuine emotion, creating a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Analyzing Emily’s Character Development

Throughout the film, Emily undergoes significant character development. Initially, she is portrayed as a somewhat possessive and desperate figure, clinging to the hope of finding love and companionship. However, as she interacts with Victor and observes his love for Victoria, she begins to evolve. She learns to empathize with their situation and to recognize the true meaning of love. This transformation culminates in her selfless act of sacrifice, which demonstrates her growth from a wounded spirit to a compassionate and understanding being. Understanding what happens to Emily at the end of Corpse Bride requires appreciating the journey she undertakes throughout the film.

The Ending in Context of Tim Burton’s Oeuvre

The ending of “Corpse Bride” is consistent with Tim Burton’s recurring themes of outsiderness, acceptance, and the beauty of the unconventional. Many of Burton’s films feature characters who are misunderstood or marginalized by society but who ultimately find their own unique form of happiness and fulfillment. Emily, as a Corpse Bride, is a perfect example of this archetype. Her journey from a tragic victim to a liberated spirit reflects Burton’s belief in the power of individuality and the importance of embracing one’s true self. The exploration of what happens to Emily at the end of Corpse Bride aligns perfectly with Burton’s artistic vision.

Conclusion: A Bittersweet Resolution

In conclusion, what happens to Emily at the end of Corpse Bride is a poignant and ultimately uplifting resolution to her tragic story. She transforms from a betrayed and murdered bride into a selfless spirit who prioritizes the happiness of others above her own. Her final act of sacrifice allows Victor and Victoria to find their true love, while also freeing her from the earthly bonds that have held her captive. The imagery of her transformation into butterflies symbolizes her liberation and her journey to a peaceful afterlife. The ending of “Corpse Bride” is a testament to the power of love, forgiveness, and the enduring human spirit, solidifying Emily’s place as one of the most memorable and beloved characters in Tim Burton’s filmography. Her story serves as a reminder that even in the face of tragedy, hope and redemption are always possible.

Understanding the nuances of what happens to Emily at the end of Corpse Bride provides valuable insight into the film’s overarching themes and its enduring appeal. The narrative carefully weaves together elements of romance, fantasy, and gothic horror to create a compelling and emotionally resonant story that continues to captivate audiences of all ages.