About this video

• Video Title: Making Sense of Evangelion
• Channel: Sock Sensei
• Speakers: Not explicitly mentioned, but the narrator is the sole speaker.
• Duration: 01:12:57

Overview

This video provides an in-depth explanation and analysis of the complex narrative of Neon Genesis Evangelion, including its TV series, films, and the Rebuild of Evangelion movie series. The creator aims to clarify the timeline, characters, lore, and thematic elements to offer a comprehensive understanding of the series, which they describe as a masterpiece with immeasurable lessons.

Key takeaways

• Multiple Endings, One Story: The video clarifies that while there appear to be three distinct endings (TV series, End of Evangelion movie, and Rebuild movies), they collectively form one cohesive narrative that must be understood together for the full picture.
• The Genesis of Evangelion: The lore traces back to the "First Ancestral Race" (F.A.R.), their "seeds of life" (Adam and Lilith), and the "First Impact," explaining the origins of humanity and the ongoing conflict.
• NERC, SEEL, and the Angels: The video details the roles of the organization SEEL, the research organization NERV, and the antagonistic Angels, whose existence and goals are rooted in ancient prophecies and the fundamental conflict between Adam and Lilith's lineage.
• Character Trauma and Motivation: Key characters like Shinji, Asuka, Rei, Misato, and Gendo are explored, highlighting their deep-seated psychological issues stemming from neglect, loss, and trauma, which drive their actions and relationships.
• The Human Instrumentality Project: The ultimate goal of SEEL and Gendo is explained as the Human Instrumentality Project, a process intended to unite humanity and achieve a form of godhood, though Gendo's personal motivations (reuniting with his wife) complicate this.
• The Rebuild Movies as Sequels: The Rebuild of Evangelion movies are clarified not as a reboot but as a sequel series that diverges significantly from the original anime's plot, mood, and focus.
• Shinji's Journey of Self-Acceptance: A central theme is Shinji's struggle with self-worth, loneliness, and his fear of connection, which he must overcome to find a path forward, even if it means accepting pain and imperfection.

Gendo Ikari's primary motivation for activating the Human Instrumentality Project is to reunite with his deceased wife, Yui. He plans to use Adam's body to achieve this, regardless of the consequences for humanity.

The organization SEEL's motivation is to fulfill the prophecy in the Dead Sea Scrolls. They believe that humanity, born from Lilith, has disrupted the natural order and that by uniting all beings – humans, Lilith, Adam, and Adam's children (the Angels) – they can become one with God, representing the next evolutionary step.