Penny Dreadful's Santa Muerte: The Angel of Death Explained

Penny Dreadful is a thrilling horror-drama series that has captivated audiences with its dark and intricate narrative. Among its myriad of terrifying and fascinating characters is the enigmatic Santa Muerte, who plays a significant role as the Angel of Death. This article delves into who portrays Santa Muerte and the significance of her character within the series.

Who Portrays Santa Muerte in Penny Dreadful?

Andrea Barbury's role as Santa Muerte, the Angel of Death, has been masterfully portrayed by Lorenza Izzo. Born on April 30, 1972, in Naples, Italy, Lorenza Izzo is a renowned actress with a versatile career. She is known for her powerful and nuanced performances, making her a perfect fit for the complex role of Santa Muerte. Izzo's portrayal of the supernatural entity adds depth and intrigue to the series, enhancing the viewers' understanding of the character's backstory and motivations.

Introduction to Santa Muerte

Santa Muerte, in Penny Dreadful, is a recurring character representing the Angel of Death. Originally from Mexican culture, Santa Muerte is portrayed as a merciful and protective figure. Unlike the traditional association of death as an ominous and treacherous force, Santa Muerte is seen as a healing and nurturing deity, who guides the souls of the deceased to a peaceful afterlife. This portrayal contrasts sharply with the stark depiction of death in Penny Dreadful, making Santa Muerte a unique and intriguing element within the show's dark narrative.

The Character of Santa Muerte in Penny Dreadful

Santa Muerte is not just a divine figure but also a sister to the charismatic demoness Magda. This sibling dynamic adds layers of complexity to her character. Aside from her role as the Angel of Death, she is a powerful force within the supernatural community, feared for her ability to control aspects of fate and death. Her significance is further magnified by her ability to provide guidance and comfort to those on the brink of death, making her a polarizing figure within the series.

Character Traits and Impact on the Series

Izzo's portrayal of Santa Muerte is characterized by her ability to convey a sense of both comforting and menacing presence. Her powers enable her to bring hope to the dying and foretell the fate of others. However, her role as the Angel of Death also brings a heavy burden, as she is responsible for guiding the souls of the dead to the afterlife. This dual nature makes her a pivotal character in the show, influencing the actions of other characters and driving the plot forward.

The Significance of Santa Muerte in Mexican Culture

Outside of Penny Dreadful, Santa Muerte has a rich and fascinating history in Mexican culture. She is often depicted as a skeleton adorned with a white bodice, a royal crown, and a crown of thorns. This figure represents death as a protective and merciful force, offering solace to the bereaved and comfort to the dying. In Penny Dreadful, Izzo's portrayal captures this essence, making Santa Muerte a humane and sympathetic figure, thereby garnering a considerable following among viewers who are drawn to the show's blend of horror, drama, and cultural significance.

Conclusion

In summary, Lorenza Izzo's portrayal of Santa Muerte in Penny Dreadful is a standout aspect of the series. As the Angel of Death, she brings a unique dimension to the show, challenging traditional stereotypes of death. Her presence in the series is both haunting and heartening, adding layers of complexity and depth to the narrative. Fans of Penny Dreadful and those interested in exploring the cultural significance of death will find Santa Muerte a compelling character to follow throughout the series.