AHS Coven: Myrtle's Iconic "Balenciaga!" Moment & Legacy
Does a single word, uttered in the throes of a climactic moment, truly encapsulate a characters essence? In the world of American Horror Story: Coven, the answer is a resounding yes, as the final, fervent cry of "Balenciaga!" perfectly distills the complex and captivating character of Myrtle Snow.
The third season of the anthology series, which premiered in 2013 and remains a beloved installment among fans, plunged viewers into the shadowy world of witches. These women, burdened by their extraordinary abilities and the constant threats they faced, navigated a landscape fraught with both external dangers and the internal struggles of their own coven. Amidst the trials and tribulations, the glamorous and eccentric Myrtle Snow emerged as a standout figure, her character defined not only by her magical prowess but, perhaps even more significantly, by her unwavering passion for fashion and, specifically, the iconic brand Balenciaga.
Myrtles pronounced love for fashion wasn't just a surface-level quirk; it was the very fabric of her being. This fascination manifested in various ways throughout the season, most notably through her repeated, almost ritualistic, shout of "Balenciaga!" This wasnt merely a brand endorsement; it was a declaration of values, a testament to her appreciation for beauty, craftsmanship, and the transformative power of style. In the face of adversity, amidst the drama and darkness that permeated the coven, Myrtles dedication to aesthetics provided a crucial anchor, a constant reminder of the exquisite in a world consumed by the macabre.
The enduring popularity of Coven lies not only in its compelling narrative and supernatural elements but also in its ability to craft characters that resonate long after the credits roll. Myrtle Snow is a prime example of this, a woman whose complexities, contradictions, and profound appreciation for beauty made her a truly memorable character. Her final utterance, a triumphant and unapologetic "Balenciaga!", remains a defining moment, encapsulating her legacy as a formidable witch and an equally fervent lover of all things sartorial.
To further understand the phenomenon of Myrtle Snow and the world she inhabited, a more detailed look at the character and her influences is necessary. Here's a breakdown of key elements:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Character Name | Myrtle Snow |
| Show | American Horror Story: Coven |
| Portrayed By | Frances Conroy |
| Key Characteristics | Witch, Clotheshorse, Loyal to the Coven, Fiery Temper, Devotion to Beauty |
| Defining Traits | Her unwavering love for fashion, especially the brand Balenciaga. Her loyalty to Fiona Goode and later Cordelia Foxx, and her willingness to make great sacrifices for the coven, often in flamboyant style. |
| Memorable Quotes | "Balenciaga!" "I haven't worn white since Easter of '63" |
| Relationship with Other Characters | Loyal to Cordelia Foxx, adversarial with Fiona Goode, and complex with other members of the coven. |
| Significance in the Plot | Myrtle Snow serves as a moral compass and an eccentric figure throughout the third season of American Horror Story, her actions often playing a key role in the unfolding drama of the coven. |
| Notable Story Arc | Myrtles devotion to fashion, her conflict with Fiona, and her ultimate sacrifice for the coven. |
| Fashion Influence | Elevated her style and personality via the constant references to luxury fashion brands, as she showcased a flair for high fashion in her many elaborate outfits. |
| Ultimate Sacrifice | Myrtle's decision to be immolated in the finale to protect the coven and Cordelia. |
For further information, you may refer to the official American Horror Story website or other reputable sources dedicated to the show and its characters.
The mention of Balenciaga, however, serves as a gateway to explore the world of high fashion, particularly the impact of the eponymous designer. Cristbal Balenciaga, the man behind the brand, was a visionary whose influence continues to shape the fashion industry to this day.
Cristbal Balenciaga Eizaguirre, the Spanish couturier, began his career in Spain. He opened his first fashion house in San Sebastin in 1917. However, the political upheaval of the Spanish Civil War prompted a relocation, and Balenciaga moved to Paris. It was in the French capital that his genius truly blossomed, transforming him into one of the most celebrated and influential designers of the 20th century. Balenciaga, as a brand, is now a cultural touchstone.
Balenciaga was known for his uncompromising standards and his mastery of tailoring. He had a unique ability to construct garments that were both sculptural and wearable, often pushing the boundaries of design and form. The designer was known as a master tailor, who customized.
Balenciaga's influence extended far beyond the runway. His designs were embraced by royalty, celebrities, and fashion enthusiasts alike. His dedication to quality, innovation, and his unique vision of modern elegance cemented his legacy as a true pioneer of fashion. Myrtle Snows shout of "Balenciaga!" isn't just a quirky catchphrase; its a nod to a lineage of design, creativity, and self-expression that continues to inspire generations.
The enduring appeal of American Horror Story: Coven, like that of the Balenciaga brand, rests on its ability to transcend trends and remain relevant. The shows ability to weave together the supernatural and the sartorial is a testament to the power of storytelling, of creating characters that linger in the imagination, and of celebrating the enduring allure of beauty in all its forms. The character of Myrtle Snow, and her unwavering "Balenciaga!", is a prime example of how a single moment can capture the essence of a character and even encapsulate a cultural philosophy.
The story of Myrtle Snow, the witch with a penchant for high fashion, illustrates how even the most outlandish of preferences can offer a sense of identity and depth. And how, at the end, a simple word can be as powerful as a spell itself.
