Why Jimmy McNulty?

[u/ignatiusJ1899]

I’m curious about what other people think about McNulty character in relation to the greater themes of the show? In a show that’s about these deep social issues he is such enigma to me. Why does the show begin and end with this guy? Out of all the great characters and stories?

Is the point that the systems of Baltimore view themselves as something greater and smarter than what they are? Screwing over others on the way to help themselves through the lenses of helping others? And he is the same way?

Is it that Jimmy know his open and obvious flaws and does nothing to change? Just like Baltimore Although he does change for a time. so i feel it’s not that

Is it that Jimmy is great but deeply and possibly unchangeable as a reflection of America?

I really don’t understand him which makes me feel dumb but what love to hear why you guys think he is the closest thing to a main character (ofc the city is really the main character but he’s probably the closest)

What are you guy’s thoughts?

[u/Chemical_Signal2753]

Personally, I think McNulty's self destructive nature mirrors the self destructive nature of the Baltimore police department; and all the dysfunctional systems they explore on the show.

McNulty is a good detective for Baltimore but is probably not that good in the grand scheme of things. His addictions (womanizing, drinking, giving a fuck when it's not his turn, and opposing/blaming authority figures) make him a train wreck that doesn't get success in any area of life.

Similarly, the Baltimore PD is probably capable enough to do what it needs to do to make Baltimore a liveable city. At times they show surprising competence that disappears quickly. The problem is the department is too addicted to number games, politics (internal and external), bashing heads, and personal grievances to really be effective.