Ben's Encounter with the Griever in The Maze Runner: A Close Call or a Sneak Attack?

The Maze Runner is a thrilling science fiction film that follows a group of teens, known as the Gladers, who are trapped in a vast maze. Throughout the movie, the Gladers face numerous challenges, including encounters with dangerous mechanical bio-engineered creatures called Grievers. One of the pivotal moments in the film is when Ben, a key Glader, gets stung by a Griever early in the movie. This event not only adds to the tension of the story but also highlights the immense danger that the Grievers pose to the Gladers.

Ben's Sting and Its Implications

Ben's encounter with the Griever occurs during a scene where the Gladers are trying to fend off the creature. The Grievers are known to roam the maze at night, attacking the Gladers with their stingers. In the specific scene, the Gladers are attempting to escape back to the safety of the Glade, and the atmosphere is chaotic. Ben, who is already showing signs of being affected by the Griever's previous stings, is stung again during this tense moment. This encounter has significant consequences for Ben's character, as it emphasizes his vulnerability and adds to the overall suspense of the film.

Theories and Speculations

The question of exactly how Ben got stung by the Griever has led to several theories and speculations. Some argue that the Griever may have sneaked in undetected, while others believe that Ben must have been near a gate or stumbled upon the Griever outside the Glade walls during daylight. However, there is not a lot of evidence to support the idea that Grievers can leave the Maze, making these theories somewhat speculative.

One interesting theory suggests that Ben might have been stung late in the day when the Grievers were outside the Glade walls. This could explain why he was stung earlier in the story, as it implies that Grievers could somehow be present in areas outside the maze. Another possibility is that when the Gladers go inside the Maze, the Grievers might follow them, either through the gates or simply by walking through the Glade itself without being noticed.

Ben's Identity as a Runner

It is also worth noting that Ben's identity as a Runner may have played a role in his being stung. Runners are Gladers who have been trained to explore the Maze for ways out. With Ben dressed in running gear and likely moving quickly, he may have unknowingly triggered a Griever or been in close proximity to one when it attacked. Alternatively, Ben's experience as a Runner might have given him insight into the Griever's movements, leading to a situation where he anticipated the creature's presence and was therefore in a position to be stung.

The fact that the Griever was out in the maze at daylight is intriguing. In the film, it is established that Grievers typically operate at night but are seen outside the cave during the group's last infiltration of the Maze. This suggests that the Griever might have been alerted by Ben's activities or might have been preoccupied with the group's actions, allowing it to venture outside its usual nocturnal territory.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ben's encounter with the Griever in The Maze Runner is a pivotal moment that adds to the tension and danger of the film. Whether the Griever sneaked in or was already outside the Glade walls, the incident underscores the constant threat that these mechanical creatures pose to the Gladers. Theories surrounding Ben's stings enrich the narrative and add depth to the characters and their challenges. While the exact sequence of events remains unclear, the theories and speculations contribute to a more engaging and suspenseful viewing experience.