June 2025

In truth, kind people are Will Graham’s weakness. After their first encounter, Will doesn’t want anything to do with Hannibal. But Hannibal barges in—with homemade food. Due to how their previous conversation went, Will is more offensive with his words now; he’s rude, waspish, unsociable—not giving him a second chance. Hannibal, in contrast, is docile, placating, and reconciliatory—forcibly moulding a second chance. He takes Will’s side this time instead of playing with him, telling him Jack is wrong to think him fragile. Then the greatest manipulation: he saves Abigail (even though he is the cause of her current predicament). He takes charge of first aid especially when Will is failing, he accompanies her in the ambulance, and then he SLEEPS or “sleeps” next to her sickbed. Hannibal successfully manufactures his second chance. Will is impressed, now respects Hannibal, and sort of trusts him—all because he’s kind, seemingly contrary to his first impression. Following this, Hannibal remains exceedingly kind towards Will throughout season 1. Weaponised compassion, that’s how he snares him.