Lichtenberg Figures
When Michael uses his enhanced powers to take on the hostilely advancing gang members in Naco, Mexico, he develops lightning-caused scars on his arms. These scars, known as Lichtenberg Figures, represent Michael’s development, both in character and in ability. His ability is obvious growing, as his powers are both multiplying and growing stronger. His character is evolving as well; no longer the innocent, tender-hearted youth that he was, Michael is growing into a fierce warrior who can harness his own anger and direct it back at those responsible.
The RAVE
A new handheld device that simulates the effects of the RESAT, the RAVE represents the Elgen’s advances in power and ability, mirroring that of the Electroclan and the Resistance. Dr. Hatch explains the RAVE as “a handheld version of Nichelle;” it sucks away electric powers and causes extreme pain to its targets. Its development represents Dr. Hatch’s power over his Glows as well as his increasing power, making the job of the Electroclan in stopping him far more difficult.
Michael
Michael himself is a symbol of the resistance of good against evil, and the immense power that can be found in goodness and morality. He stood up against the temptations of Dr. Hatch, and continues to stand up against his threats and evil deeds, representing the forces of goodness against those of evil. His unwavering commitment to fighting the Elgen demonstrates his devotion to the cause of saving the world, making him a symbolic hero.
Welch
Welch, Hatch’s former head EGG, represents the humanity of the Elgen Academy Glows. He trained them, and he acted as a friend and a father to Quentin as he grew up in Hatch’s twisted care. When Hatch turns against Welch and sentences him to death, he reawakens the human elements in his former students, causing Quentin and Tara to disobey him and break Welch out, symbolizing their rebellion against Hatch’s oppression.
The Monkey Cage
The cage of monkeys Hatch uses to humiliate the former prime minister of Tuvalu represents his terrible cruelty. The use of monkeys implies an evolutionary degeneration, making his victims not only suffer but symbolically be forced into a lesser state of being. Later, Hatch sentences Quentin to be put into the monkey cage as well, emphasizing its importance and its status as the retributive measure Hatch uses against those whose loyalty proves to belong to someone or something higher than himself.
