The Will (Six Feet Under)

In the context of the HBO television series Six Feet Under, "The Will" refers to a handwritten document created by Nathaniel Fisher Sr., the patriarch of the Fisher family, prior to his unexpected death. This document is a source of significant plot development and character conflict throughout the series.

The will outlines Nathaniel's wishes regarding his estate, particularly his share of the family business, Fisher & Sons Funeral Home. While he leaves the business to his wife Ruth and his sons Nate and David, the specific terms of the agreement, especially a clause granting Ruth a significant amount of control, become points of contention.

The will also reveals aspects of Nathaniel's personality and motivations, hinting at hidden desires and unaddressed family dynamics. Its existence forces the Fisher family to confront uncomfortable truths about their relationships with each other and with their deceased father. The interpretation and execution of the will lead to legal disputes, emotional breakdowns, and ultimately, a deeper understanding of the family's complex history.

Furthermore, "The Will" serves as a narrative device to explore themes of death, inheritance, family secrets, and the challenges of confronting mortality that permeate the entire series. The contents of the will and the reactions they elicit drive the narrative forward and contribute to the character development of the central figures in Six Feet Under.