Episode 12: She said, "Don't make others suffer for your personal hatred."
Summary
This episode focuses on the arrival of the new Eva Unit-03 from the United States and its tragic fate. Asuka is initially chosen to pilot it, but Toji Suzuhara ends up being selected as the Fourth Child. The activation test goes horribly wrong when the Eva is possessed by an Angel, forcing Shinji to make a difficult decision.
Key Events
- Eva Unit-03 arrives from the United States
- Toji Suzuhara is revealed as the Fourth Child
- The activation test for Unit-03 is conducted at Matsushiro
- Unit-03 is possessed by the 13th Angel, Bardiel
- Shinji refuses to fight the possessed Eva, knowing a pilot is inside
- Gendo activates the Dummy Plug system, forcing Unit-01 to brutally destroy Unit-03
Character Development
- Shinji's moral dilemma highlights his growing empathy and reluctance to harm others
- Gendo's ruthlessness is further emphasized by his decision to use the Dummy Plug
- Misato struggles with her duty to NERV and her care for the pilots
- Toji's selection as a pilot adds complexity to his character and relationship with Shinji
Analysis
This episode marks a turning point in the series, escalating the moral ambiguity of NERV's actions and the psychological toll on the pilots. It explores themes of sacrifice, duty, and the cost of following orders. The tragic fate of Unit-03 and its pilot serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by the children and the ruthlessness of those in command.
Symbolism and Foreshadowing
- The possession of Unit-03 by an Angel foreshadows the true nature of the Evas
- The Dummy Plug system represents the dehumanization of the pilots and the Evas
- Shinji's refusal to fight symbolizes his growing disillusionment with his role as a pilot
Trivia
- The episode title is a quote from the character Misato Katsuragi
- This is the first appearance of the Dummy Plug system in action
- The design of Eva Unit-03 is notably different from the previous units, hinting at its unique origins
Eva Unit-03 possessed by the 13th Angel, Bardiel