Through the Mirror

This thesis examines the globally influential series Black Mirror. It is an anthology series that features different characters, settings and storylines each episode. This series is known for its dystopian and dark portrayals of technology. Each episode features a different form of a highly advanced technology that redefines what appears to be a normal society. The series has been widely interpreted as a critical perspective on the dangers of technological progress. However, this thesis looks beyond its dystopian reputation and examines how the series portrays technology as a tool for connectivity, escapism and memory. It answers the central research question: "How does the series Black Mirror portray technology as a tool for connecting, escaping and remembering?' It uses a qualitative methodology, specifically a thematic analysis. This thesis uses a deductive approach and analyses the concepts of connectivity, escapism and memory. It analyses a selection of twelve relevant Black Mirror episodes that are relevant to the core concepts. The episodes analysed span all seven seasons, from the first to the most recent, which aired this year. Three overarching themes emerged from the analyses, touching on the concepts of connectivity, escapism, and memory. Each main theme consists of two subthemes. The findings indicate that digital connectivity or intimacy influences real-world presence and (romantic) relationships. Digital escapism arises from unfulfilled psychological needs. This temporary refuge can serve as a liberating space for self-reflection, but it can also lead to entrapment. While mediated memories can act as psychological shields, they also recontextualise memories. Overall, this thesis shows that Black Mirror presents a more nuanced narrative than is generally recognised. The idea that the series portrays technology as inherently harmful is challenged. The criticism is not directed at the technology itself. The narrative exposes the underlying psychological motivations and vulnerabilities of its users. It addresses people's inadequacies in reconciling their online and offline presence, the tendency to avoid confronting problems or self-reflect and to accept the past without clinging to it. Technology in itself is not the cause of dystopia. This thesis shows that it can also facilitate meaningful connections, encourage personal reinvention or evoke nostalgia and give meaning to life.