Avon Barksdale, who is he? That is the question facing the detectives of the Wire at the beginning of the series. It is only fitting that a name is all they have to go on because that is what Avon Barksdale is, a name. It is not actions or a threatening demeanor that make Avon Barksdale powerful, it is his name and reputation. Avon plays the game with honor and is true to his word. That is why he lets Omar and Brother Mouzone take out Stringer Bell, and that is why he is one of of the greatest drug Lords ever.
Avon Barksdale is built up as a god among men before he even makes his first appearance on screen. When we finally see him he certainly does not disappoint. He is smart, always playing by his rules to avoid getting caught. He is cocky, going to all costs to try to win a basketball game. He is even caring, trying to look out for family through all the craziness that goes on. Avon Barksdale appears to be the classic criminal that people love. However, as the Wire always does they show there is more to characters than the stereotypes would lead you to believe. We see that Avon also has an angry side when he goes after to referee for a seemingly meaningless call. We see him coldheartedly order hits on many of the characters in the show, and we see him unreasonably refuse to cooperate with the co-op Stringer has worked so hard to create, ultimately resulting in his fall.
Avon Barksdale is a character that manages to dominate the show, despite only playing a large role in two seasons (Season one and season three). He is just as powerful when you hear his name as when you see him on screen, and his name will not be quickly forgotten. Avon Barksdale is not someone to be messed with or taken lightly, and that is what makes it sad when Marlo Stanfield and his crew begin to take over. We have begun to grow attached to Avon, but the Wire is based in reality and in reality people fall in and out of power. Avon had his time at the top, but he got caught and now it is time for someone else to take over. However, we can still remember Avon and his memorable quote, "I'm just a gansta I suppose... and I want my corners!"
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