The transformation of Chuck's character is probably one of the most brilliantly executed on celluloid. His psychological makeup is entirely plausible. Early Chuck is partly the result of parental neglect by the Big Bad Bass combined with the excesses unearned privilege.
Living in a hotel where all the contact is paid for (doormen, chauffeurs, etc) gives Chuck the sense that people are commodities – and Jack Bass’s love of prostitutes doesn’t help.
Chuck’s attempted assault of Jenny is an extension of him having learned the dangerous lesson that women are there to service him. He should have gone to jail but is spared - a troubling message. Without Lily's unconditional love, and his twin soul, Blair, Chuck would likely have developed into a truly evil character - the abused becoming the abuser. But his redemption as character is the most compelling element of the show.
What is so clever about Gossip Girl is that Dan begins as a White Knight of high ideals and low means swooping in to save Serena, and Chuck as the wealthy villain who wants to defile women. The slow build of realisation that beneath Dan’s scorn of high society is not moral indignation, but pure unfettered envy, and that Chuck’s darkness hides little more than a big heard and bigger hang ups, is one of the key victories of this deceptively glossy show.
On another note, I've heard that Blair is looking for new Minions to do her bidding! Anyone brave enough or crazy enough to do it?
www.facebook.com/groups/1760784400753686/