The girl with 'two brain cells'
When Lisbeth starts working at Milton, she is judged as a backward person not capable of being and functioning in a society. She is thought to have no regard for anyone or for any kind of hierarchy. She is also thought to be a docile and stupid person as she has dropped out of school, but Dragan discovers that not only she is highly intelligent but very proficient with technology and inspire of having no education has a wide range of knowledge.
The expose on Wennerstrom
The expose on Wennerstrom was meant to elevate the status of his magazine and his as a pioneer in socio-political journalism. However, the source turned out to be fake and leaves the magazine and Mikael in jeopardy.
Lisbeth's rape
Lisbeth, who has been declared as a mentally incompetent person, is dependent on her legal guardian for managing her finances. Hence, she is completely dependent on her guardian. The guardian is a state-appointed person and is supposed to protect the ward. However, Bjurman abuses that responsibility by raping Lisbeth.
Martin Vanger
Martin Vanger is said to be a docile, gentle person. Henrik Vanger even calls him a fair-weather sailor implying that he may not be competent enough to take care of a company in crisis. But, in the end it's revealed that he is the mastermind behind the torture and murder of more than 30 women.
Isabella Vanger's refusal to recognize Harriett
When Harriett comes out of hiding, her mother Isabella refuses to recognize her. Isabella knew of Harriett's sexual abuse by his husband and son but never spoke against it, preferring to ignore it. But, as a way to protect Harriett in the end refuses to acknowledge that she is her daughter and maintaining that she's Harriett's imposter.
