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Neon Genesis Evangelion, an anime series that took the world by storm, has always been the center of fervent discussions with its deeply layered narrative rich in symbolism. I recently had the chance to re-watch the series for the nth time, and there's just so much to unravel every single time!
A significant character throughout Evangelion, Rei Ayanami, is shrouded in symbolism that I believe revolves a lot around identity, humanity, and existence. Rei's often portrayed in patterns mirroring religious, philosophical connotations, such as references to the Judeo-Christian Golem, given her artificial and disposable nature. The recurring theme about her lack of individual identity is haunting, and subtly comments on the human condition - the struggle for purpose and individuality.
Then there's the cross imagery, which appears numerous times throughout the series, often during large-scale and destructive events. Very clearly drawing from Christian iconography, it represents both sacrifices and cataclysms. This game of duality continuously blurs the line between salvation and destruction. It's very captivating to watch, don't you think?
Similarly, director Hideaki Anno's use of psychological themes, especially concepts from Freudian psychoanalysis like the Oedipus complex, portray Shinji's struggle. It potently symbolizes the human fear of intimacy and the instinctive longing for a safe and assured existence. This theme of "Hedgehog's Dilemma" constantly teases us with the characters' fear of getting hurt when getting closer to someone, yet the loneliness when staying distant.
One more bit of symbolism (among many!) that fascinates me is the usage of colors throughout the series. Typically found within Eva Unit-01 (Shinji's). The purple color scheme seems to represent wealth, power, and ambition throughout the series. On the other hand, the green highlights symbolize life, renewal, nature, and energy.
I'm very intigued by everyone's views as the depth of NGE, to me, is unfathomable. Do you spot any other recurring symbols that resonate deeply with you? Or perhaps there's a different interpretation to the ones I've mentioned? Share your thoughts! We're all here to analyze and appreciate the complexity that is Neon Genesis Evangelion!
A significant character throughout Evangelion, Rei Ayanami, is shrouded in symbolism that I believe revolves a lot around identity, humanity, and existence. Rei's often portrayed in patterns mirroring religious, philosophical connotations, such as references to the Judeo-Christian Golem, given her artificial and disposable nature. The recurring theme about her lack of individual identity is haunting, and subtly comments on the human condition - the struggle for purpose and individuality.
Then there's the cross imagery, which appears numerous times throughout the series, often during large-scale and destructive events. Very clearly drawing from Christian iconography, it represents both sacrifices and cataclysms. This game of duality continuously blurs the line between salvation and destruction. It's very captivating to watch, don't you think?
Similarly, director Hideaki Anno's use of psychological themes, especially concepts from Freudian psychoanalysis like the Oedipus complex, portray Shinji's struggle. It potently symbolizes the human fear of intimacy and the instinctive longing for a safe and assured existence. This theme of "Hedgehog's Dilemma" constantly teases us with the characters' fear of getting hurt when getting closer to someone, yet the loneliness when staying distant.
One more bit of symbolism (among many!) that fascinates me is the usage of colors throughout the series. Typically found within Eva Unit-01 (Shinji's). The purple color scheme seems to represent wealth, power, and ambition throughout the series. On the other hand, the green highlights symbolize life, renewal, nature, and energy.
I'm very intigued by everyone's views as the depth of NGE, to me, is unfathomable. Do you spot any other recurring symbols that resonate deeply with you? Or perhaps there's a different interpretation to the ones I've mentioned? Share your thoughts! We're all here to analyze and appreciate the complexity that is Neon Genesis Evangelion!