I think that the major theme of this season is definitely “belief”- and that we’re going to see a lot of failure in that regard before we see much success.
Regarding Belle, I think she is purely a manifestation of Rumple’s feelings and thoughts, powered by his imagination, which seems to run a bit wild when he’s not reigning it in. This mirage has appeared to him when he needed it most, to provide him with encouragement, but she doesn’t know anything he doesn’t know (the barrier is fine, why shouldn’t it be- this Belle is here to provide you with peace of mind), which is the interesting bit.
You see, Rumple knows exactly what Belle thinks of him, even if he doesn’t understand why and claims not to believe it himself. But the Belle he manifested still came from within him, so perhaps that means that deep, deep down- there is a part of him that thinks she could be right.
Just as I think Peter has been toying with Emma to make her believe the worst of herself is the truest of herself, I think he is doing the same thing with Rumple. It’s sort of a layered thing. With Emma I think she’ll travel the following path:
Okay, fine, I’m the Savior. I admitted it! (She admits this reservedly, but it’s not big news.) >>>
I’m an orphan! The pain! (She’s vulnerable and Pan has her where he wants her)>>>
No… wait… forget that. I am strong, I have a family- I am a kick-butt warrior Princess! (She comes around and realizes her personal strength due to those supporting her.)
Likewise, I think Rumple will follow a similar path.
I’m the Dark One (He tried to deny this part of himself for the good of others, but had to take up the mantle again)
I’m a coward (Not a pleasant thing to admit, but this is hardly breaking news and those who know him already know this)
I’m a coward because I’m afraid of being alone/rejected (Probably stemming from the parental abandonment- which Peter is trying to drudge up via the doll- this is Rumple at his weakest)
Someone, somewhere believes I am good and worthwhile (Belle provides him with strength, but more importantly – because he was able to conjure up a version of her that believes in him, he realizes that some part of him believes in himself as well, and we have a “you had the power all along” moment. Also… family?)
So I guess I’m saying, this Belle isn’t the heroine this Rumple deserves, but she’s the heroine he needs?
(Quick, to the Bookmobile!)
"Nothing is easier than to denounce the evildoer; nothing is more difficult than to understand him."
