SY273

2015

Pirates of the Caribbean

Hector Barbossa, first appearing in Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, is a pivotal character within the film franchise. He begins as the mutinous first mate to Captain Jack Sparrow aboard the Black Pearl, leading a crew to overthrow Sparrow and seize control of the vessel. His initial portrayal is of a ruthless pirate driven by greed and a desperate need to break the curse that has befallen him and his crew.

Cursed to live as undead skeletons under moonlight, Barbossa's primary goal is to amass the scattered Aztec gold and reverse this affliction. He's cunning, strategic, and possesses a deep understanding of pirate lore and the supernatural forces at play in the Caribbean. Throughout the series, Barbossa undergoes significant character development.

Later appearances showcase a more complex individual. He forms uneasy alliances with former enemies, displays moments of surprising honor, and even accepts a commission as a privateer in service to the Crown. While still a pirate at heart, Barbossa's motivations evolve beyond mere treasure seeking, driven often by survival and a surprisingly fierce sense of protection towards those he eventually comes to care for, despite his rough exterior. His resourcefulness ensures his recurring presence in the franchise, often as a key player in the ongoing conflicts.