The Sandman has finally concluded its two-season run, and Season 2’s ending answers lingering questions viewers had about the series’ mythos. It also deftly delivers a proper yet moving resolution that wraps up the character arcs of several core characters, including Tom Sturridge’s Morpheus, while teasing prospects for others. Accordingly, fans are curious about the fate of the main protagonist, Morpheus, and are wondering if he dies. They also wish to learn why he died.
So does Morpheus die in The Sandman Season 2? Here’s your query answered.
Does Morpheus die in The Sandman Season 2’s ending?
Yes, Morpheus a.k.a. Dream dies in The Sandman Season 2’s ending.
In Season 2 Volume 1’s ending, Morpheus ends up breaking a sacred rule of the Endless — spilling of family blood. He does this by killing his son, Orpheus, at the latter’s request. Orpheus, who was reduced to a severed head after being dismembered by Dionysus’ Sisters of the Frenzy, had requested death as his boon in exchange for helping Morpheus locate Destruction.
Thus, due to breaking the Endless’ rule, Morpheus was marked for death. The Kindly Ones later begin rampaging across his realm, The Dreaming. Their violent actions prompt Morpheus to summon and ask them to stop endangering those he is protecting. However, the Kindly Ones respond that they can’t leave until Morpheus dies.
Having long been aware of the consequences of killing Orpheus, Morpheus accepts his fate. He later goes to the edge of the Dreaming to face the Kindly Ones and has Matthew the Raven summon his sister, Death.
Death shows up and takes Dream’s hand. After this, the lightning and rain around them subside until they are engulfed in a bright light, signaling the latter’s demise.
Why does Morpheus sacrifice himself in The Sandman Season 2’s ending?
Morpheus chooses to sacrifice himself as he feels immense guilt for causing his son’s death.
Before dying, Morpheus anoints Daniel Hall, the first child conceived in the Dreaming, as the successor to his throne. This proves to be the right choice as Hall’s innate compassion ensures that the Dreaming can become a more empathetic place.
Following Morpheus’ demise, Daniel transforms into an adult, played by Game of Thrones’ Jacob Anderson.
All episodes of The Sandman are currently streaming on Netflix.
