Episode 3: A Transfer
Summary
Shinji begins attending school in Tokyo-3, where he meets his classmates, including Toji Suzuhara and Kensuke Aida. Tensions rise when Toji blames Shinji for his sister's injuries during the previous Angel attack. Meanwhile, a new Angel appears, and Shinji must face it while dealing with his personal conflicts.
Key Events
- Shinji starts attending school and meets his new classmates.
- Toji confronts and punches Shinji, blaming him for his sister's injuries.
- Kensuke befriends Shinji, showing interest in NERV and the Evangelions.
- The fourth Angel, Shamshel, attacks Tokyo-3.
- Shinji initially refuses to pilot Eva Unit 01 but eventually agrees.
- Toji and Kensuke end up in the entry plug with Shinji during the battle.
- Shinji defeats the Angel but is traumatized by the experience.
Character Development
- Shinji Ikari: Struggles with the consequences of piloting Eva and the burden of responsibility.
- Toji Suzuhara: Introduced as an antagonist but begins to understand Shinji's position.
- Kensuke Aida: Shows enthusiasm for military technology and becomes a supportive friend to Shinji.
- Misato Katsuragi: Displays her leadership skills during the crisis and her concern for Shinji.
Analysis
"A Transfer" explores the impact of Shinji's role as an Eva pilot on his everyday life and relationships. The episode highlights the disconnect between Shinji's extraordinary responsibilities and his desire for a normal teenage life.
The conflict with Toji serves to illustrate the wider consequences of the Angel attacks and the Eva's actions on the civilian population. This adds depth to the world-building and raises ethical questions about the use of the Evangelions.
Shinji's reluctance to pilot Eva Unit 01 again demonstrates his ongoing struggle with his role and the psychological toll it takes on him. The experience of Toji and Kensuke in the entry plug provides a civilian perspective on the terrifying reality of Angel combat.
Symbolism and Foreshadowing
- The classroom setting, juxtaposed with Angel attacks, symbolizes the loss of innocence and childhood for the Eva pilots.
- Shinji's initial refusal to pilot foreshadows his future struggles with his role and identity as an Eva pilot.
- The Angel Shamshel's whip-like appendages can be seen as symbolic of punishment, tying into themes of sin and redemption.
Trivia
- This episode marks the first appearance of recurring characters Toji Suzuhara and Kensuke Aida.
- The Angel Shamshel is the fourth Angel overall, but only the second one fought by Shinji.
- The scene where Toji and Kensuke enter the entry plug was not originally planned but was added to increase the episode's runtime.