Nickelodeon's hit television show SpongeBob SquarePants is known for its cast of dynamic quirky characters. There is the dimwitted Patrick Star, the brainy Sandy Cheeks, the optimistic SpongeBob, the money-hungry Mr. Krabs, and then there is Squidward. Unlike many of the other one dimensional characters on the show, Squidward is nuanced. He shows more character development than anyone else on the show.
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Many fans see Squidward as a highly relatable character. His sarcasm, dry sense of humor, wit, and pessimistic attitude are comforting to some. Still, there are others who despise this character. They see him as an arrogant character who is selfish and out to run SpongeBob and Patrick's fun. Take a look at 5 reasons why Squidward is actually the hero of the show and 5 reasons he's terrible.
Hero:Cares For Spongebob
Though SpongeBob often gets on Squidward's nerves, it is clear that behind his bitter exterior, Squidward actually cares for SpongeBob. There are several occasions in which Squidward goes out of his way to make SpongeBob happy, such as when he dresses up like Santa at Christmas. Another example is when he gives SpongeBob a great "last day".
Though SpongeBob is not an easy person to live next to, when Squidward tries to move away to live around like-minded people he finds that something is missing. He quickly becomes bored surrounded with people who only share his interests. Despite how hard he worked to move, Squidward decides to move back into his old home, proving that he cares deeply for SpongeBob.
The Worst: Lazy At Work
While it's understandable why someone wouldn't love their job at the Krusty Krab, Squidward's attitude doesn't help. It's clear Squidward is unhappy a his job. This is likely due to the abuse he suffers at the hands of Mr. Krabs. Still, Squidward does the bare minimum. He is extremely lazy while at work and does not care that SpongeBob is left to pick up his slack.
Hero: He's a Leader
Squidward has true leadership skills. He enjoys trying to lead others to success. When working at the Chum Bucket, he is overjoyed when Plankton recognizes his value and gives him responsibility. Under Squidward's leadership, Le Chum Bucket becomes very successful.
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This is not the only time that Squidward shows off his leadership ability. On several occasions, he combines his passion for music with his leadership skills in an attempt to create successful bands and choruses.
The Worst: Arrogant
Squidward is unable to accept his own limitations and shortcomings. His inflated sense of self has him convinced that he is the best at everything he does. Though Squidward loves the clarinet, fans do not rejoice when he begins to play as he is pretty awful.
If Squidward would acknowledge the areas in which he is lacking, he could work on improving himself and become a better person. Unfortunately, his arrogance keeps him from growing as an individual.
Hero: He Has Standards And Morals
There are certain things that Squidward will not allow. When Mr. Krabs tries to force Squidward to serve a clearly spoiled Krabby Patty to a customer, he refuses. Squidward also defends SpongeBob if he feels he is being mistreated by others.
When SpongeBob and Squidward work hard to deliver a pizza to a rude customer, Squidward isn't afraid to tell the customer what he thinks of him. Squidwards strong convictions are some of the best aspects of his personality.
The Worst: Has A Temper
Squidward has a short fuse. He is regularly frustrated by SpongeBob and Patrick. Even when the pair are trying their best to do something nice for Squidward, he often finds their presence annoying. When pushed, Squidward explodes.
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Squidward doesn't save his anger for SpongeBob and Patrick. He also has several explosions at work, yelling at Mr. Krabs and even getting into a fist fight with him!
Hero: Honest And Straightforward
While saying exactly what is in your mind isn't always a good thing, Squidward often says what needs to be said. He is fearless in standing up to other. Squidward doesn't beat around the bush or make passive aggressive remarks waiting for others to understand what he is saying. His direct approach allows him to clearly convey his thoughts are feelings, even if they aren't always acknowledged by those in his life.
The Worst: Bitter At The World
It's not hard to see that Squidward is unhappy with his life. He is an ambitious character who has not been able to accomplish any of his goals are dreams. Instead of working hard to improve himself, Squidward becomes extremely bitter.
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He is angry at the world for his failures and takes out his anger and disappointment on everyone else instead of taking responsibility for his own actions.
Hero: Willing To Stand Up To Krabs
It is shocking how many people are willing to withstand the abuse from Mr. Krabs. Squidward is one of the only characters who is willing to put his foot down and say enough is enough. On several occasions he has quit the Krabby Patty due to numerous health violations and dangerous situations.
He refuses to blindly follow Mr. Krabs' orders and even escalates to breaking things and fish fighting in certain circ*mstances. While he doesn't always handle these situations in the best way, fans still need to appreciate that someone is willing to stand up to Mr. Krabs.
The Worst: Dismisses Others
Squidward has an over-inflated sense of self. His arrogance leads him to believe that he is always the smartest in the room. The worst part of this is that Squidward is unwilling to acknowledge the talents of those around him. Anyone who thinks differently than he does is automatically written off as unintelligent.
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