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The Walking Dead: Conquer – Rick’s Reign, Morgan’s Return, and the Wolves are Coming (Season 5, Episode 16 – Season Finale)

Originally aired: March 29, 2015. A whopping 15.78 million viewers tuned in for this epic conclusion to Season 5. Written by Scott M. Gimple and directed by Greg Nicotero.

Alexandria: From Safe Haven to Showdown:

“Conquer” is where all the simmering tensions in Alexandria finally boil over. Rick’s actions have divided the community, and The Wolves are lurking just outside the walls, ready to strike. This episode is all about leadership, survival, and the choices people make when the world is falling apart.

Key Plot Points:

• Rick on Trial: The People vs. Grimes: Rick, after his brawl with Pete and his “you’re not ready” speech, is facing the music. Deanna, the leader of Alexandria, calls a meeting to discuss Rick’s behavior and decide whether he should stay or go. The community is split, with some supporting Rick’s pragmatic approach to survival and others clinging to their idealistic worldview. Rick, never one to back down from a challenge, delivers another passionate speech, reminding everyone of the dangers outside the walls and the need for strong leadership. Rick Grimes: the leader who’s not afraid to speak his mind (even if it gets him in trouble).!
• Morgan’s Back (Again, Again): Just when you thought the episode couldn’t get any more dramatic, Morgan shows up! He’s been tracking the group for a while now, and he finally catches up with them at Alexandria. He saves Daryl and Aaron from a trap set by the Wolves, showing off some impressive martial arts skills and a newfound philosophy of nonviolence. Morgan Jones: the pacifist ninja who’s about to shake things up in Alexandria.
• The Wolves: They’re Not Just Barking: We get our first real glimpse of the Wolves, a group of brutal and resourceful survivors who have been leaving those creepy “W” markings on walkers. They’re not just mindless killers; they’re strategic and organized, and they’re clearly a threat to Alexandria’s safety. The Wolves: the new baddies on the block (and they’re not afraid to bite).!
• Pete’s Last Stand (and Reg’s Tragic End): The meeting to discuss Rick’s fate is interrupted by Pete, who’s drunk and enraged. He stumbles into the meeting with Michonne’s katana (bad idea, dude!) and accidentally kills Reg, Deanna’s husband. Deanna, heartbroken and furious, orders Rick to execute Pete. Rick, without hesitation, shoots Pete in the head, solidifying his role as the leader of Alexandria. Rick Grimes: the executioner who’s not afraid to get his hands dirty (again).!
• Glenn vs. Nicholas: The Coward and the Compassionate: Nicholas, that spineless weasel who abandoned Noah to die, tries to kill Glenn in the woods. But Glenn, being the better man, overpowers Nicholas and spares his life. It’s a powerful moment that shows Glenn’s moral compass and his belief in redemption. Glenn Rhee: the pizza delivery boy who became a hero.
• Daryl and Aaron: The Wolf Trap: Daryl and Aaron, while scouting the area, stumble upon another one of the Wolves’ traps. They’re surrounded by walkers and about to become wolf chow when Morgan shows up to save the day. He leads them back to Alexandria, where he’s reunited with Rick. Morgan and Rick: the bromance is back (and it’s about to get complicated).!

Themes and Meanings:

• Leadership: The Power of Decisiveness: Rick’s actions in this episode, especially his execution of Pete, show his willingness to take charge and make tough decisions, even if they’re unpopular. Deanna’s acceptance of Rick’s leadership reflects the community’s need for a strong and decisive leader in the face of growing threats. Leadership: it’s not about being liked; it’s about being effective.
• Forgiveness vs. Revenge: The Moral Compass: Glenn’s decision to spare Nicholas contrasts sharply with Rick’s execution of Pete. It highlights the different approaches to justice and morality in the apocalypse. Glenn believes in forgiveness and redemption, while Rick is more focused on survival and protecting his people. The apocalypse: it’s a world of moral gray areas.
• Survival: Different Philosophies: Morgan’s return and his pacifist philosophy introduce a new dynamic to the group. His belief in nonviolence clashes with Rick’s pragmatic approach to survival. This conflict of ideologies is sure to create tension and challenges in the future. The Walking Dead: where survival is a matter of perspective.

Little Details You Might Have Missed:

• The Wolves’ elaborate trap with the “W” markings on the walkers foreshadows their role as a major threat in the coming seasons. They’re not just mindless killers; they’re strategic and cunning, and they’re going to be a formidable enemy for Rick and the group. The Wolves: the new boogeymen of the apocalypse.
• Morgan’s staff symbolizes his transformation and his commitment to nonviolence. It’s a stark contrast to Rick’s reliance on guns and his willingness to use lethal force. Morgan: the warrior who found peace (and a really cool stick).!
• Rick’s execution of Pete is a symbolic moment. It marks his full transition into a leader who prioritizes the survival of his group above all else, even if it means sacrificing his own moral code. Rick Grimes: the man who’s willing to cross the line (and maybe lose himself in the process).!

Stats and Stuff:

• Walker Kills: 20+ (the survivors are still keeping those walker-slaying skills sharp).
• Human Deaths: 2 (Reg and Pete, the victims of circumstance and Rick’s wrath).
• Survivor Count: Stable, but the community is divided and facing new threats.

My Final Verdict:

“Conquer” is an intense and emotional season finale that leaves you wanting more. Rick’s rise to power, Morgan’s return, and the introduction of the Wolves all set the stage for an exciting new chapter in “The Walking Dead.” This episode is a reminder that the apocalypse is a constantly evolving world, where the survivors are constantly faced with new challenges and forced to make difficult choices. What did you think of the finale? Were you shocked by Rick’s execution of Pete? Let’s discuss in the comments!