One of the most famous animated shows in recent years is Rick and Morty. This science-fiction sitcom, created by Justin Roiland and Dan Harmon, has gained massive popularity due to its unique humor, complex storylines, and philosophical undertones. Among the many intriguing elements of the show, one question that consistently arises among fans is: “Why is Rick called C-137?”
In this article, we will explore the meaning behind the “C-137” designation, how it plays into the broader narrative of the show, and what it says about the show’s universe and its characters.
The Significance of the “C-137” Label
Rick Sanchez, the brilliant yet flawed scientist and main character of Rick and Morty, is often referred to as “Rick C-137.” This label appears in multiple episodes of the show, but its true meaning is not immediately clear. To understand why Rick is called C-137, we need to delve into the concept of multiple universes, timelines, and parallel realities that form the foundation of Rick and Morty.
The Multiverse in Rick and Morty
Rick and Morty is set in a vast multiverse where multiple versions of the same characters exist in parallel dimensions. Each dimension is slightly different from another, offering different versions of reality, each with its own history, decisions, and consequences. This multiverse is a central theme throughout the series, and it allows for endless possibilities, such as different versions of Rick and Morty existing across various realities.
In this multiverse, the “C-137” designation refers to a specific dimension where the main version of Rick exists. This dimension is not just another random one but is the starting point for the show’s primary timeline.
What Does “C-137” Mean?
In the context of the show, “C-137” is a code that identifies the dimension or universe where this particular Rick hails from. The “C” in “C-137” likely stands for “Central” or “Core,” as it often appears in other shows and media that feature multiverse elements. The “137” is a specific number assigned to the dimension, making it unique among the infinite possibilities of the multiverse.
Though the show never explicitly explains the origins of this label, we can infer that it serves as a way to differentiate Rick C-137 from other versions of the character. This identification gives a sense of continuity to the show, helping fans understand that this Rick is the main protagonist, even though there may be countless other versions of him across different universes.
Why Is Rick C-137 Important?
Rick C-137 is the main character of the series, and his identity as C-137 plays a crucial role in the show’s plot. While the show often explores the idea of infinite realities, Rick’s backstory and actions are tied to his specific universe, and this affects the way he interacts with other characters. For example, the fact that he is from dimension C-137 shapes his relationship with his family, particularly his daughter Beth, and his grandson Morty.
Rick C-137’s actions in his universe also have ripple effects throughout the multiverse. His reckless behavior, dangerous experiments, and manipulative tendencies create chaos not only in his own dimension but across many others. This creates an interesting dynamic in the show, where viewers see how a single version of Rick can have such a profound impact on countless other worlds.
Exploring Other Versions of Rick
One of the most compelling aspects of Rick and Morty is the presence of multiple versions of Rick throughout the multiverse. This allows for a wide variety of characters and storylines, each exploring different facets of Rick’s personality, choices, and relationships.
The Evil Morty Arc
One of the most significant subplots in the show revolves around the character of Evil Morty, who emerges as a villain and challenges Rick’s dominance over the multiverse. Evil Morty is a version of Morty from a different dimension, and his ultimate goal is to free the multiverse from the control of the “Citadel of Ricks,” an organization of Ricks from different universes.
Evil Morty’s quest is rooted in his desire to break free from the cycle where all the universes are governed by Ricks, who are portrayed as the smartest and most influential beings in the multiverse. This quest directly challenges the idea that Rick C-137 is the central or most important Rick, highlighting the potential danger of having one version of Rick dominate the multiverse.
The Citadel of Ricks
The Citadel of Ricks is a key location in the Rick and Morty universe, acting as a gathering point for Ricks from different dimensions. Here, Ricks from countless timelines live and interact, often forming alliances or opposing each other. The Citadel represents the idea that Rick C-137, despite his intelligence, is just one of many, and his actions are not necessarily more important than those of other Ricks.
The Citadel serves as a reminder that Rick’s identity as C-137 is specific to one universe. His designation doesn’t make him the ultimate or most powerful version of himself; it simply sets him apart from the others. The presence of different Ricks also emphasizes the theme of identity, where multiple versions of a person can exist, each with different choices and circumstances.
The Deeper Meaning of C-137
While the “C-137” label is primarily used to distinguish Rick from other versions of himself, it also serves a deeper philosophical and narrative purpose within the show. Rick and Morty often tackles existential questions about identity, morality, and the nature of the universe, and the concept of C-137 is no different.
The Fleeting Nature of Identity
In the show, Rick C-137’s identity is fluid and ever-changing. He is a character who moves between realities and experiences different versions of himself, making it difficult to pin down a fixed identity. This reflects the existential theme of the show: the idea that identity is not necessarily permanent or singular. Just like how Rick is just one of many versions in the multiverse, our own identities may be shaped by a variety of influences and experiences.
This idea is explored in several episodes where Rick questions the significance of his actions and the meaning of his existence. In one notable episode, Rick confronts his own nihilism and the idea that nothing really matters in the grand scope of the multiverse. The “C-137” label thus becomes symbolic of the fleeting and often arbitrary nature of existence itself.
The Burden of Intelligence
Rick’s intelligence is a central theme in the show. He is portrayed as one of the smartest beings in the multiverse, capable of inventing highly advanced technologies and manipulating the laws of physics. However, this intelligence comes at a cost. Rick’s brilliance isolates him from others, leading to his emotional detachment and self-destructive behavior.
The fact that Rick is labeled as “C-137” highlights the paradox of his intelligence. While he may be unique in his dimension, he is still just one version of a character who exists in countless other realities. His intelligence, despite being a defining characteristic, does not make him immune to the existential crisis that comes with living in an infinite multiverse.
Conclusion
The question of why Rick is called C-137 is more than just a quirky detail about the show—it reflects the complex narrative and philosophical themes that Rick and Morty explores. The multiverse setting allows for endless possibilities, and the C-137 designation serves as a reminder that Rick’s version is just one among many.
The label represents the intersection of identity, intelligence, and existentialism that forms the backbone of Rick and Morty. It challenges the idea of a fixed self, instead highlighting the fluid and multifaceted nature of existence. Through the character of Rick C-137, the show poses questions about the meaning of life, the role of intelligence, and the importance of identity in a universe where everything is possible.
Ultimately, Rick C-137’s journey is a reflection of the show’s broader themes: the search for meaning in an infinite, often absurd multiverse.
Related topics:
- What Is Rick and Morty Known For?
- Is Rick the Most Powerful in Rick and Morty?
- How Does Rick and Morty End?
