Is it Possible for Arthur to Not Get TB?
Red Dead Redemption 2, a highly-acclaimed open-world western game, has sparked a fascinating debate among gamers and game enthusiasts. One of the most intriguing questions revolves around Arthur Morgan’s fate – can he avoid contracting tuberculosis (TB)? In this article, we’ll delve into the game’s storyline, mechanics, and tuberculosis’s history to provide a comprehensive answer.
Getting Sick is Integrated into the Story
In Red Dead Redemption 2, tuberculosis is an integral part of Arthur Morgan’s storyline. During a specific mission, Arthur coughs as a sign of his illness. This event is non-negotiable, and attempting to skip the mission will result in the same outcome – Arthur contracts TB. This means that, unfortunately, it is not possible for Arthur to avoid getting TB.
Why Didn’t Arthur’s Friends Catch TB?
One might wonder why Arthur’s friends and companions didn’t contract TB as well. The answer lies in the game’s mechanics. Tuberculosis is a highly contagious disease, but it requires direct contact with infected bodily fluids to spread. Micah, for instance, was present during the event where Arthur contracted TB, but he didn’t get infected. This is likely due to the game’s narrative design, where character interactions and story progression dictate the spread of the disease.
The History of Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis, also known as the "White Plague," has a rich history dating back millions of years. The disease is believed to have originated in East Africa around 3 million years ago. A growing pool of evidence suggests that the current strains of M. tuberculosis, the bacteria responsible for the disease, originated from a common ancestor around 20,000-15,000 years ago.
TB in the 1800s
During the 18th and 19th centuries, TB was commonly referred to as "consumption" due to its association with wasting and malnutrition. The disease was often linked to poverty, poor living conditions, and lack of access to medical care. In the United States, TB was particularly prevalent among urban populations, with mortality rates reaching as high as 30-40% in some areas.
The White Plague: Tuberculosis, Man and Society
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, TB became known as the "White Plague" due to its prevalence among the wealthy and upper classes. The disease was often associated with tuberculosis sanatoriums, where patients would travel to seek treatment and recover in a controlled environment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is not possible for Arthur to avoid contracting tuberculosis in Red Dead Redemption 2. The game’s storyline and mechanics are designed to ensure that Arthur contracts the disease, and attempting to skip the mission will result in the same outcome. While it is intriguing to consider what might have happened if Arthur had avoided TB, the game’s narrative is grounded in historical context and realistic portrayals of the disease.
Table: Important Dates in the History of Tuberculosis
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 3 million years ago | TB originates in East Africa |
| 20,000-15,000 years ago | Current strains of M. tuberculosis emerge |
| 18th and 19th centuries | TB becomes known as "consumption" |
| Late 19th and early 20th centuries | TB becomes known as the "White Plague" |
Bulleted List: Key Takeaways
• Tuberculosis is an integral part of Arthur Morgan’s storyline in Red Dead Redemption 2.
• It is not possible for Arthur to avoid contracting TB.
• Tuberculosis has a rich history dating back millions of years.
• The disease has been associated with poverty, poor living conditions, and lack of access to medical care.
• TB has been referred to as the "White Plague" due to its prevalence among the wealthy and upper classes.
By understanding the context and history of tuberculosis, we can better appreciate the game’s portrayal of the disease and its impact on Arthur Morgan’s character development.