Shinji and Asuka's Relationship: Difference between revisions

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Despite not joining the cast until [[Episode 08]], [[Asuka_Langley_Soryu|Asuka]] quickly becomes a pivotal figure in the narrative, both in her own right and in her interactions with [[Shinji_Ikari|Shinji]].  The complex dynamics of their relationship quickly become very prominent in the show. Most aspects of the relationship, however, remain unspoken or frustrated. Thus it is up to the viewer to piece together their motivations from the unspoken or implied aspects of their actions.
Asuka Langley Soryu is only introduced in episode 8 and drastically changes the tone of the narrative. Her appearance is what the fanbase marks as the separation between the first story arc, Introduction Arc (episodes 1-6), and the second, Action Arc (8-14). ref>Episode 7, Jet Alone’s, is interpreted as a transition episode.</ref>


It is often only by looking at the wider details of a scene, such as background conversations or framing that their true feelings are revealed. In many cases the clues to unraveling a scene can only be found in conjunction with other scenes, as well as the larger narrative and thematic context of the show. Finally, it is often the case that important information is transmitted visually rather than through dialog, so examination of screenshots is necessary.
Her interactions with Shinji soon become a point of constant tension, implying closeness and feelings of hate, anger and jealousy. Thus, it is up to the viewer to critically analyze their motivations and explore the unspoken side of their actions.


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The purpose of this article is to make an in-depth analysis of the aspects that permeate this relationship, its evolution, nuances and parallels with other characters, in order to find an answer to the questions raised by the fanbase over the years.
==Are They a Couple?==


There is no clear answer, as their relationship is unlike those traditionally portrayed in this sort of story. As stated above, there is no closure such as them accepting their feelings and acknowledging them to each other and possibly to others as well. '''However, it is the evidence presented in the show that makes it clear that they are the show's ''primary relationship.''''' As such, the narrative consistently uses Asuka and Shinji's interactions to expose its themes, as the clashing of two characters that are superficially the opposite but in fact foils to one another, two sides of the same coin that allow the show to explore questions of individuality, intimacy, relationships, self-defense mechanisms, insecurity and many of the themes encompassed in the central metaphor of the show, the Hedgehog's Dilemma.
==A Couple?==


Throughout the Action Arc and into the beginning of the Descent Arc their interactions follow many conventions of romantic comedy. They have an eventful first meeting, complete with instant dislike and sexual misunderstandings. Circumstances push them into continued proximity, with sexual tension and slowly building mutual acceptance, as Asuka and Shinji both begin to impact one another's development as a character and as a person. Friends see a relationship of which the character's themselves are blind, either teasing or offering advice, however their mutual insecurities keep them from attaining something deeper.  
The show never presents them as some kind of "official couple". Actually, what the series usually does is use these characters to explore themes related to affection, sexuality and human interactions in general.
For example, this from [[Episode 17]]:
 
Shinji and Asuka deal with the world and themselves in unique ways and at times this leads to conflict, both at home and at work. Misato sees this and decides it's better for them to live together. This, in turn, leads to chaotic moments, as their relationship perfectly depicts the Hedgehog's Dilemma, which is one of the show's central pillars.
 
Some of their scenes together incorporate elements of romantic comedy, following the pattern established in the Action Arc of reducing the story's dramatic curve in favor of a bittersweet narrative, with Asuka assuming a position of comic relief underpinned by her “difficult personality”. However, even with this apparent toughness, her weaknesses eventually become apparent and Shinji is able to see ways approach her and build a tolerable friendship. To strengthen this "romantic comedy" vibe, the show introduces scenes in which the two of them find themselves in funny and disastrous situations.
 
An example would be in Episode 09. Misato has momentarily substituted Rei for Asuka in the synchro-attack training and Rei aces it the first try. After Asuka runs from the room Hikari says to Shinji: "Go after her! You made a girl cry!".
 
The scene has a romantic comedy content to Hikari's speech, as it implies Shinji's responsibility for Asuka's reaction, since a boy cannot disappoint a girl, even if the fault is not directly his, according to the trope.


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|caption = The pause in the second image before they deny their relationship typically shows that Toji's observation is correct. They '''are''' quarreling like a married couple.
|caption = The pause in the second image before they deny their relationship typically shows that Toji's observation is correct. They are quarreling like a married couple.
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Another example would be in [[Episode 09]]Misato has momentarily substituted Rei for Asuka in the synchro-attack training and Rei aces it the first try. After Asuka runs from the room Hikari says to Shinji:  "Go after her!  You made a girl cry!". On the surface, it's hard to understand exactly how Shinji is responsible. If anyone made Asuka cry it was Misato. Then you realize that Hikari has already figured out that they are a couple, and feels that it is Shinji's responsibility to protect Asuka from this sort of humiliation.
This is also supported in a more subtextual manner via clever use of cuts during important moments to establish a parallel between the Shinji and Asuka relationship and that of Misato and Kaji. In episode 11 both pairs end up in compromising positionsAnd, while Shinji and Asuka come to a turning a point (the kiss in Episode 15), at the very same time, Misato and Kaji are able to rekindle their relationship and enjoy brief intimacy. However, this is not the case between Shinji and Asuka. They both tend to pull away after this kiss, and Asuka starts having bigger problems with her self-confidence, which affects not only her relationship with Shinji, but all the other characters as well.
 
As stated earlier, Shinji and Asuka differ in their ways of dealing with situations, but they also have their counterparts in terms of thought and the kind of traumas they have, making them two sides of the same coin: equal, but opposites, and this duality is played along during their interactions of the show.
 
Having lost their mothers at an early age and the subsequent neglect by their fathers, both experienced very similar trauma, but developed opposite defence mechanisms, as they are too afraid of being abandoned again. Namely, while Shinji runs away from people and isolates himself in order to avoid intimacy and the risk of rejection and to always stay in his comfort zone, Asuka pushes them away from her with arrogance and abrasiveness, trying to cultivate a false image of herself that keeps her from facing reality.


This is also supported in a more subtextual manner via clever use of cuts during important moments to establish a parallel between the Shinji/Asuka relationship and that of [[Misato Katsuragi|Misato]] and [[Ryoji Kaji|Kaji]]. In [[episode 11]] both pairs end up in compromising positions. Kaji and Misato can also be seen as relatively positive adult versions of them, that have gone through similar hardships and trauma but mostly overcome them, even though they still cary some scars. This is in contrast to [[Gendo]] and [[Ritsuko]]'s relationship, who also follow similar patterns but are far more negative and escapist, with Gendo very clearly being associated as a Shinji that never got past his issues even into adulthood, particularly in [[Episode 21]]. While Shinji and Asuka come to a turning a point (the kiss in [[Episode 15]]) but fail to reach out to one another, at the very same time Misato and Kaji are able to rekindle their relationship and enjoy brief, but real intimacy and happiness. Interestingly, their roles are reversed as Asuka is the one that provokes and initiates the kiss, but it is Kaji that kisses a self-castigating Misato. The show does not drop their relationship however, and keeps analyzing what went wrong or right with both, and why.  
Therefore, miscommunication is always present in their interactions towards each other. Shinji is unable to get closer to Asuka because he is paralyzed by inaction and his incapacity to understand other feelings and Asuka isn't able to get closer to Shinji in a proper way because she is also afraid and her way to interact with the world and avoid suffering is to always communicate in dubious or angry ways.


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From this perspective, it can be said that Asuka uses Shinji as a tool to achieve her goals with Misato, Kaji, and other adults. On the other hand, she also insists on denying him as someone close enough, or even similar to her. As a defense mechanism for her own trauma, she insists on presenting herself as aloof from Shinji's issues and indifferent to his problems, becoming more hostile to him as he starts to surpass her synchronization rates and manages win crucial battles while she is failing. However, under that façade, she also seems to have genuine concern about him and also high expectations as she wants him to take initiative, and later, notice her and give her some affection, as it is shown in episode 22 and also in the movie The End of Evangelion.
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Also, regarding Shinji, while he displays early obvious physical attraction to Asuka – trying to kiss her during the last night of the synchronization training in Episode 9, blushing and trying to hide an erection in the running gag of “thermal expansion” in Episode 10 – and even presents some unusual behavior of confrontation and friendly rivalry towards Asuka’s remarks and teasing, Shinji is still oblivious about how to interact with Asuka and other people, seeking help from Kaji in that matter (episode 17). However, after the events of the latter part of the show starts to happen, Shinji once again got retracted into his own shell, basically losing all of the character development that he achieved during the show in terms of interacting with other people, as his usual quiet and passive approach to those matters weren’t enough anymore, especially towards Asuka.
|title  = ''Shinji/Asuka and Kaji/Misato''
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|image6  = [[Image:15_KM_kiss.JPG|200px]]
|caption = Comparison shots from episodes 9, 11, and 15
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Havin lost their mothers at an early age and the subsequent neglect by their fathers, Asuka and Shinji experienced very similar trauma, but developed opposite defense mechanisms, as they are both too afraid of reaching out to others for fear of receiving the same abandonment they have in the past. Namely, while Shinji runs away from people and isolates himself in order to avoid intimacy and the risk of rejection and to always stay in his comfort zone, Asuka pushes them away from her with arrogance and abrasiveness, trying to cultivate a false image of herself that keeps her from facing reality.  


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Additionally, they are the only two characters present [[Theory and Analysis:Final Scene in End of Evangelion|in the final scene]] of [[End of Evangelion]], as their interactions there are emblematic of the themes of the story coming full-circle, even if there is no outright conclusion, as where their relationship will go from there is still left open, be it deeper and real friendship, be it as failure, relapse and retrogression, or even anything more including real and loving romance. Nonetheless, the ending also indicates they have gone through a process of growth and change, and that accepting each other was and is part of a better future. Despite its ambiguity, the ending is still very optimistic for them.
Finally, they are the only two characters present in the final scene of End of Evangelion, as their interactions there are emblematic of the themes of the story coming full-circle, especially throughout this movie. Interestingly, a definitive answer to the initial question is not given, being left open, accompanying the enigmatic feelings that accompany the entire memorable final sequence.
 
Nonetheless, the ending waves to the fact that they have gone through a process of growth and change, and that accepting each other is part of a better future. Despite its ambiguity, the ending is still very optimistic for them, reflecting feelings valid for all humanity.
 
==In-depth analysis==


This article will also take into consideration some correlation between Asuka's feelings for Shinji and her feelings for Kaji.
===Episode 8===


==Episode 08:  Introductions==
Here begins our analysis, in the episode that introduces the character to the series. Asuka Langley Soryu, the representative of Nerv 3rd Branch, in Germany, with her Eva-02. Asuka has her first contact with the characters from the moment they arrive on the battleship that transports her. Misato brought Shinji and his two schoolmates, Kensuke Aida and Toji Suzuhara. to accompany shipping. Her first reaction is to impose herself in front of the visitors, stepping on top of Toji's flying cap and slapping all three boys for seeing her panties because of the wind. At that moment, her need to impose dominance in front of others becomes clear, and she presents negative stimuli and rejection even when the boys are not responsible for what happened.


Marking the appearance of Asuka Soryu Langley, in Neon Genesis Evangelion, episode 8 is mostly used to introduce us to the personality of the German pilot. Set on the battleship carrying her Eva, Asuka meets Shinji, Toji and Kensuke who were brought by Misato to visit. Initially mistaking Toji as the third pilot, Asuka then proceeds to express disappointment at the thought of someone as unremarkable as Shinji having being chosen as one; a very underwhelming first impression. The episode also introduces Kaji Ryoji, Asuka's ex guardian and a man she is shown to have feelings for. It is during an exchange between the two that Asuka learns about Shinji's surprisingly high synchronization, renewing her interest in him and prompting her to show off her superiority as a pilot: with words, at first and eventually in the battle against Gaghiel.  
She then sets out to find out who Third Children is, and, with the first impression being that this would be Toji, is somewhat disappointed to discover that it is Shinji, who looks quite vulnerable at first sight. Later on, the episode introduces Ryoji Kaji, Asuka's ex-guardian and for whom she shows a great admiration, if not a platonic passion. However, it is soon revealed that Kaji had a past with Misato, which embarrasses both Asuka and Shinji. It is during an exchange between the two that Asuka learns about Shinji's surprisingly high synchronization, first saying she is not impressed, she then resolves to establish initial contact with him to compare their abilities, and demonstrate her high operational and technical knowledge of the Evangelions.
What should have been just a demonstration of dominance on the part of Asuka turns out to be a real battle, due to the appearance of Gaghiel. Asuka again uses the situation to test his abilities in front of Shinji, and even forces him to use his plugsuit and try to speak German. At all times, she wants to demonstrate in control of the situation, and that she has a greater potential than Shinji, because she is trained and has a more advanced Evangelion model. She reluctantly ends up accepting some of Shinji's initiatives during the battle, so that their joint effort manages to defeat the enemy. However, she never easily accepts his words, and is especially annoyed to see him try to pilot her Eva. Her delimitation of space and ownership is also part of the concepts she clings to to demarcate her strong and dominant personality. With these elements, the episode efficiently marks some of the main points of Asuka's behavior.
 
In the end, when the boys thought they had gotten rid of the character, it is revealed that she was enrolled in the same class as them, establishing that new fruits of this relationship would develop.


In what is one of the most recognizable moments of the episode, Asuka forces Shinji to join her in her mech (while also forcing him to wear her plugsuit), to fight the angel, in order to further prove to him her skill. Despite the initial issues in reaching an acceptable level of synchronization, it is only thanks to their combined effort that they eventually succeed in winning. Asuka's arrogant, bossy and competitive personality introduced under these circumstances, will prove to be one of the biggest hurdles in their relationship, while, at the same time, their combined victory hints at the potential for them to reach harmony and stability. The duality of their relationship is, as such, introduced from the very first time they meet.
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===Episode 9===
 
Following her introduction, and being the first episode in the traditional setting, this chapter sets out the changes that Asuka brings to the environment with her dwelling, and the impacts it has on the relationships among the characters.
 
As previously revealed, Asuka now attends Shinji's school. At school, his presence is highlighted. Being a foreign and beautiful girl, she draws the attention of many boys, and is the result of the curiosity of the entire school community. Despite this, she treats everything as mere formalism or irritation, and just concentrates on establishing dominance over Shinji (greeting him in German with "Guten Morgen" and waiting for an answer in the same language) and trying to establish contact with Rei. Shinji, for on the other hand, he acts with some discomfort, feeling his space invaded by this strange presence, but still trying to be friendly, as if out of obligation.
 
The first fight of the episode, against the angel Israfel, turns out to be a quick loss. Asuka and Shinji are employed together, but she proceeds to charge the opponent on her own, forcing Shinji to cover her, with the sole purpose of proving to him and everyone else her superiority. Her rash decision leads them both to a defeat when the angel proves capable of duplicating itself. After the battle, Shinji is nervous, trying to counteract Asuka warning about the recklessness of her behavior, which causes an argument between them, as Asuka does not accept that Shinji has control or dominant position over the environment or the battle strategies, either because he is inexperienced, or because she is much more qualified. The two of them
are interrupted by receiving an earful from Fuyutsuki. That’s when Misato decides to make them train to reach better synchronization with each other, and they start living together.


==Episode 09:  Once Again They Must Work Together==
Misato's decision is based on the idea that, by living together and learning to share space, objects and daily life, the two will be able to improve their synchronicity during combat operations, and probably also learn to deal with their differences in temperament. At a certain point, both are even obliged to wear the same clothes, so that the synchronization is done as accurately as possible.
[[Image:09_shinji_smile.JPG|thumb|left|Seeing Asuka in a positive light]]


The second episode dedicated nearly in its entirety to the duo. Starting off with Asuka moving to Shinji's school (and eventually his house), the episode focuses on the previously introduced theme of synchronization. We are given some insight on Asuka's school life, thanks to a series of pictures taken by Kensuke. Her familiarity with Shinji is at once apparent as she greets him with a cheery "Guten Morgen!", while she stomps disdainfully on a locker full of love letters from her other male classmates.
Their training, which is basically a dance game, is watched by Hikari, Toji, Kensuke and Rei, as well as Misato. The result is disastrous, and Asuka says she is unable to do so because of Shinji. Misato then asks Rei to try in place of Asuka, which results in a perfect synchronization. The situation reverses for Asuka, showing that she was the one who was out of sync. With the shock of reality, she runs away, disappointed. Hikari pities her and blames Shinji for hurting her feelings, saying that he should go after her. Talking alone with Shinji, Asuka expresses anger towards Misato and Rei, saying that she must overcome them as a matter of pride, and that Shinji doesn't understand this, even though he is a man. Shinji looks at her in confusion, but smiles when he sees her efforts. The next days, the training proceeds smoothly, with the two having seemingly succeded in finding coordination.


The first fight of the episode, against the angel Israfel, turns out to be a quick loss. Asuka and Shinji are employed together, but she proceeds to charge the opponent on her own, forcing Shinji to cover her, with the sole purpose of proving to him and everyone else her superiority. Her rash decision leads them both to a defeat when the angel proves capable of duplicating itself. It is at this point, after the two of them receive an earful from Fuyutsuki, that Misato decides to make them train to reach better synchronization with each other. During a dance session, in front of Hikari, Toji, Kensuke and Rei, meant to make them move in synch, Asuka accuses Shinji of being too slow to keep up with her (though the observant viewer will notice that Shinji actually follows the instructions while Asuka makes some missteps), leading her to get angry at him. Misato comes in Shinji's defense asking Asuka to adapt to him, which she refuses to do, and then replacing her with Rei, in an attempt to poke Asuka's pride and make her compromise. The result is opposite, though, and Asuka leaves the house angered. Encouraged by his friends, Shinji follows Asuka outside and manages to get her to go back to training. In the scene in question, Asuka expresses to Shinji her determination to succeed as a pilot, while Shinji is shown to look up to her, expressing admiration for her confidence and strong personality. The rest of the training, which had them perform everything together, proceeds smoothly, with the two having seemingly succeded in finding coordination.  
The evening before the fight, Asuka and Shinji are left alone at home by Misato. After hinting at them being alone for the night, Asuka, without giving Shinji the opportunity to respond, proceeds to take her futon away from the living room bringing it to Misato's room and shutting the door. She then compares said door to the "unbreakable Walls of Jericho", ordering Shinji not to enter. This scene in question will be later referenced by the mind-violation sequence in episode 22, implying that in fact she would like some comfort in the face of the anxiety of the upcoming battle. However, her inability to accept the idea of relying on others pushed her to shut herself inside Misato's room instead of seeking Shinji's company. This being said, the "Walls of Jericho" could then be a reference to Asuka needing someone to push through her barriers and truly understand her. The events of that night strengthen this argument. Asuka, sleepwalking, goes to the bathroom, and then, instead of returning to the next room, she lies down next to Shinji. Shinji follows everything awake, as he was listening to music (not wanting to wake up or get Asuka's attention, he pretends to be asleep). Shinji is stunned at her for a moment and ends up trying to kiss her, only to then be interrupted by Asuka crying and calling for her mother. He then realizes that she also keeps demons for herself.


The evening before the fight, Asuka and Shinji are left alone at home by Misato. After hinting at them being alone for the night, Asuka, without giving Shinji the opportunity to respond, proceeds to take her futon away from the living room bringing it to Misato's room and shutting the door. She then compares said door to the "unbreakable Walls of Jericho", ordering Shinji not to enter. The scene in question is referenced by the mind-violation sequence in ep.22 (Asuka vs Arael), with the strong implication that Asuka was in need of Shinji's support and help due to feeling lonely and (potentially) anxious for the battle of the next day. Her inability to accept the idea of relying on others, which is at the foundation of Asuka's personality, was what pushed her to shut herself inside Misato's room instead of seeking Shinji's company. The reference to the "Walls of Jericho" (famously destroyed in the battle of Jericho), could be seen as a reference to Asuka needing someone to push though her barriers and truly understand her. During the night Asuka visits the bathroom while half-asleep and then subconsciously lies next to Shinji. Seeing her asleep, Shinji stares stunned at her for moment before trying to kiss her, only to then be interrupted by Asuka crying and calling for her mother. The obvious purpose of the scene is to express Shinji's attraction for her and to hint at Asuka's loneliness. The battle of the next day proves to be a victory, they succeed in reaching harmony (temporarily). It's worth noting that, during a discussion between the two pilots, Asuka gets Shinji to admit he tried to kiss her, giving her a confirmation of his interest.
In any case, the battle of the next day proves to be a victory, as they succeed in reaching harmony through the training. However, the timing was not perfect, with them failing to land. The two fight and exchange accusations at the end of the episode, with Asuka alluding to last night's episode but later denying it. Shinji is again irritated by Asuka's pretension to him. This moment demonstrates that their relationship has not yet been harmonized, as the internal barriers of each one bar a true and sincere approach.


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===Episode 10===
 
This episode deals with some peculiarities of Shinji and Asuka's relationship with Misato, and their behavior in relation to everyday variables. The two kids won't be able to attend the school trip, as pilots have to be ready for emergencies. Taking note of this, Asuka expresses her disappointment and tries to get Shinji to support her. Shinji, on the other hand seems to be resigned, and to have already foreseen this situation. Asuka mokes him for his passive behavior, again expressing displeasure about his (lack of) masculinity.
 
As a consolation for not being able to go on the school trip, the three pilots (including Rei) go to the swimming pool. There, Asuka tries to get Shinji's attention, and starts a conversation about his homework. She manages to resolve it easily, and reveals that she just has difficulty reading the kanji. She is already graduated, although she is in the same class as Shinji.<ref>No further explanation is given for this fact, and one can only speculate that Asuka studies in the same class as Shinji due to the fact that this one concentrates all possible Evangelions pilots. Secondarily, it is an opportunity for her to learn Japanese grammar and socialize with people of her own age.</ref>. During this interaction, she even starts provoking him with her swimsuit, explaining to him the basics of thermal expansion using her breasts as an example. Shinji detours, embarrassed, and Asuka is once again frustrated by her lack of initiative. At this point, it's clear that Asuka would like to see a little more interest from Shinji. His constant passivity leaves her with no room for validation of her personality. Later, she proceeds to call for Shinji's attention again as she dives in the swimming pool. Shinji just sighs, looking rather frustrated with Asuka's constant initiatives.
 
Asuka then volunteers to fight Sandalphon in a volcano. For this, she needs special clothing to withstand the heat. Resistant at first, she accepts the mission, only to not let Rei pass in front of her. It's also worth noting that she's also afraid that Kaji will see her in this kind of embarrassing situation, considering that she shows interest in him as an adult role model whose involvement might make her look grown up too, but just as uncomfortable would it be to stand behind a person she judges unfit, like Rei Ayanami.
 
At the mission location, Asuka begins to be submerged, and Misato orders her to do so at levels critical to her well-being. At this point, it is clear that Misato also has her agenda in front of the angels, and that, as much as she may have some affection for the children, she understands their role as tools for that purpose. Asuka then begins combat as the angel, having difficulties after taking critical damage in the safety cables. She then appears to accept her end. However, Shinji, without hesitation, comes to her rescue in Eva-01, despite it not being fitted with protective equipment, and grabs Eva-02 before it can drift away. At first completely surprised at Shinji's rescue, Asuka quickly gathers herself enough to make a token attempt at keeping up appearances, quietly calling Shinji a "fool" and a "show-off", but her expression plainly shows her being grateful, smiling at his act. This moment makes it clear how Shinji would not easily accept a person's discard, even though he has mixed feelings about Asuka and her attitude in this point of the story. In any case, this was one of the incentives Asuka sought in Shinji, and it certainly pleased her that he decided to act at such a crucial moment, where her life was at risk. Similar moments will appear in the future, but the characters' actions will drastically diverge, based on their mental state or mundane and operational conditions.


==Episode 10: If at first you don't succeed...==
===Episodes 11 to 14===
[[Image:10_C059_bigger.jpg|thumb|left|Asuka presses her two advantages.]]


The first relevant scene of the episode is Asuka's reaction when Misato lets her know that she won't be able to attend the school trip, as pilots have to be ready for emergencies. Asuka expresses her disappointment and tries to get Shinji to support her point of view but fails to do so, as Shinji seemed to have already accepted that scenario. This is an additional hint of Asuka's need for other people's support. Instead of going to the school trip Asuka, Shinji and Rei spend their time at the swimming pool. Asuka tries to make up for the inconvenience by looking for Shinji's attention, making fun of him for having issues at school (she has already completed university studies) and provoking him with her swimsuit, as she explains to him the basic concept of thermal expansion.  
These episodes are focused on the more traditional structure of Monster-of-the-Week, and, because of that, they keep a slightly more linear formula, without major deviations for character development. That said, the interactions that exist between the pilots in these episodes add one or two noteworthy highlights.


Shinji's reaction isn't particularly amusing for Asuka, as he doesn't quite know what to say and blushes, prompting Asuka to call him a "boring little boy". Worth pointing out is that Asuka was met with indifference by Kaji, when she had tried to impress him, earlier in the episode, with her choice of swimsuit. She then proceeds to call for Shinji's attention again as she dives in the swimming pool. In a way she seems to be having fun. It should be pointed out that Shinji is scared of water and Asuka is likely showing off to him her diving knowledge, to further prove her superiority to him (playfully). In the last part of the episode Asuka volunteers to fight the angel (Sandalphon) in a volcano, winning the confrontation but losing the safety cables that kept her from falling deeper in the lava. It is at that point that Shinji, without hesitation, comes to her rescue in Eva-01, despite it not being fitted with protective equipment, and grabs Eva-02 before it can drift away. At first completely surprised at Shinji's rescue, Asuka quickly gathers herself enough to make a token attempt at keeping up appearances, quietly calling Shinji a "fool" and a "show-off", but her expression plainly shows her true feelings; in spite of herself, she cannot help but tenderly smile at his action, both impressed and grateful. The moment also proves to Asuka her importance to Shinji, making his future failures (to help her) even more frustrating.
On episode 11, Asuka tries to establish a leadership role over the other two pilots, but has little success with this as Rei, even being quiet and expressionless, manages to handle the situation much more successfully than her. Shinji, in this situation, stands between two girls and tries not to antagonize either of them, as he’s already being used to Asuka's bossy profile. Fortunately, they are successful in putting together a strategy in the face of the threat of the angel Matarael, which demonstrates value in Asuka's ideas, although they can often be misled by her inconvenient personality.


==Episode 11:  I'm in Charge!==
Episode 12 demonstrates Shinji doing well on the sync tests, which annoys Asuka deeply, as she feels like she's being left behind. Shinji, on the other hand, is embarrassed to make Asuka so angry, as he doesn't want to be a bother to anyone. A party is organized at Misato's house due to her promotion, which Kaji attends, and makes Asuka angrier even more out of jealousy.
[[Image:11_Asuka_between.JPG|thumb|right|Asuka takes charge.|175 px]]


Another episode that deals with the theme of cooperation. Asuka, Rei and Shinji find themselves having to deal with a blackout at the base, while having to reach their Eva in order to confront the angel attacking (Matarael). The situation is used to offer us additional insight on Asuka's bossy behavior and reckless attitude, which leads the three the wrong way, and on Asuka's dislike of Rei. Eventually, they reach the headquarters and manage, with a group effort, led (this time successfully) by Asuka, to defeat the angel. In the fight Asuka puts herself in danger, to protect Shinji, returning him the favor from the previous fight. The last scene in the episode sees the three lying on a hill, looking at the city with no lights on and expressing the way they feel. Shinji enjoys it, as it allows him to see the stars, but Asuka finds it unpleasant.
When they go to battle, the pilots learn about the high danger of the mission, given the nature of the angel. Misato promises them to eat meat, in which Shinji and Asuka feign excitement, but later comment on how silly it was. Heading into the fight, the two talk about the reason for piloting the Evangelions, as Asuka comments on her desire to be the best. She is surprised that Shinji has already talked about it with Rei before, commenting on it. Anyway, she just comments on how simple they are in their desires. After winning the battle, everyone goes to eat meat as promised, and Shinji is deeply pleased to have been congratulated by his father, to which Asuka comments what an idiot he is. At this point, it's already noticeable how Asuka is somewhat envious of Shinji's merits and personality (and a bit of Rei as well), and so tends to downplay it or get defensive. Anyway, they already act with greater confidence among themselves and it can be said that they nurture a certain friendship.


<br><br><br>
Her behavior in the next two episodes also hints at that mood, with little comments about Shinji's growth and Rei's nature.


==Episode 12: Rivals and friends ==
===Episode 15===
In this episode the rivalry between Asuka and Shinji once again finds its way into the story. Shinji is shown to have further made improvements in his sync score and, while still lacking behind than Asuka, he is given all the praise. Asuka sarcastically expresses her envy and resentment for the praise Shinji receives, only to then head home on her own. As Misato is accompanying Shinji home, he expresses to her how he didn't enjoy being praised due to Asuka's angry reaction, showing concern for her. When they are all back, they throw a party for Misato's promotion. Kaji shows up with Ritsuko, which leads Asuka, who had been anticipating his arrival, to have a jealous reaction. This, along with Shinji's improvement as a pilot, act as elements of foreshadowing for painful and negative experiences Asuka will go through in later stages of the story.


The fight of the episode offers the three pilots another opportunity, once again successful, to cooperate. Shortly before being employed Shinji asks Asuka the reason why she pilots. When she learns he had asked Rei the same question, she seems to show a hint of possessiveness, making a pointed comment about how close him and Rei seem to be. She then proceeds to inquire about his reasons to fight. But when Shinji just replies that he doesn't know, she expresses surprise and incredulity at his answer. The last scene of episode has Misato and the three pilot eating together, in a Ramen stand Asuka had picked for the occasion. It's worth noting that Asuka made that choice so that Rei, who doesn't eat meat, could join them and to let Misato save some money. When Shinji muses to the group about the praise he received from Gendo upon completion of the operation and how it might be his reason for being a pilot, Asuka, again a bit incredulous, makes fun of him for it, believing it to be a stupid reason. In hindsight though, Asuka's reaction can easily be interpreted as her being defensive.
This episode changes everything. From this point on, Asuka's personality is no longer just a caricature and becomes something solid, which causes her pain and suffering, although it is also her support in dealing with others.


==Episode 14: Jealously==
Asuka starts out calling Kaji, pretending to be at risk, just to get his attention. The lack of an answer leaves her disappointed, and she sees it as an indication of her estrangement and the loss of a safe haven (remembering that Kaji was her then guardian until they moved to Japan). Hikari then asks her to go on a blind date, which she agrees to. However, the date proves to be a failure and Asuka dumps the guy because she deems him "boring". She doesn't show any remorse about leaving her date alone, saying she only cares about Kaji’s reactions.
Asuka once again expresses envy when Shinji is given more attention than her, as he is testing Rei's Evangelion. In the last scene she is shown to say (in relation to Rei's identity): "Misato and Kaji-san won't tell me anything. Shinji knows nothing". Implication being she had developed a certain curiosity about the First.


==Episode 15:  Is it just a kiss?==
When Asuka gets back home, she finds Shinji playing the cello, in which she compliments him. Shinji, however, diminishes his own ability and says that he only keeps playing because no one asked him to stop, to which Asuka comments jokingly, almost as if in a pitying tone.
[[Image:15 SA kiss.JPG|thumb|200px|The apogee.]]


A very important episode for Asuka, completely devoid of any angel fights. The very first scene concerning the girl sets the theme for the episode. She is calling Kaji on the phone but fails to get through to him, forcing her to leave a message. It is interesting to note that, in the message, where she pretends to be stalked by a pervert just to get Kaji to pick up, she shouts for his "help". It is the only time Asuka ever utters the word (excluding the mind-violations). After putting down the phone, she is shown to feel quite depressed and rejected. Hikari then asks her to go on a blind date, which she agrees to. The date proves to be a failure and Asuka dumps the guy because she deems him "boring".
Misato calls to say that she will be late from the wedding party she was at. Shinji reacts naturally, but upon learning the fact, Asuka is very upset, especially because of the company of Kaji. She feels betrayed that he is paying more attention to his ex-girlfriend than to her. Scenes of a re-engagement between Misato and Kaji are shown, and then, as a parallel, the children are shown. As the two are waiting for Misato's return, Asuka asks Shinji to kiss, because she is bored, she says. Shinji, as usual with Asuka, tries to assume a dominant pose, as if wanting to awaken a "manhood" that she charges him with. The kiss, however, is rather chaotic, with Shinji holding his breath so as not to disturb Asuka, and thus not having any corresponding attitude in the act. Asuka looks down and runs to the bathroom, whereupon she shouts that she will never kiss again to pass the time.
[[Image:EVAFilmBook 05 023.jpg|Newtype Film Book Volume 5, dealing with [[Asuka]] and [[Shinji|Shinji's]] kiss. This is from the Chinese release.<br>''"It feels as if time has stopped."''|thumb|right|250px]]


When Asuka gets back home in the evening she walks in on Shinji playing the cello, and she applauds him after he plays the piece to finish, admitting that she is impressed with his performance and the fact he plays an instrument. In his usual self-deprecating manner, Shinji attempts to downplay her praise, telling her that he does not think he has any musical talents and only can do it so well because he has played since he was five years old. Asuka, still impressed, points out that perseverance is still a form of power. As the two are waiting for Misato's return, Asuka asks Shinji to kiss. She assumes a provocative/cold attitude, bringing boredom as the excuse for it. Thanks to the mind-violation sequence (ep.22), we know that boredom was just a small part of it. In truth she was seeking some love and help from Shinji. It should be remembered that Asuka, at this point in time, is feeling especially rejected and ignored by Kaji and sees in Shinji someone who cares about her; a potential replacement for her ex-guardian. As expected, Shinji agrees to kiss her but, despite Asuka prolonging the exchange for as long as Shinji could breath, he fails to understand its real meaning and to provide her with the support she needs.<ref>Shinji doesn't make any move to initiate the kiss (notice that Asuka pauses, expecting Shinji to lean in while he simply closes his eyes and waits). He doesn't hold or touch Asuka in any way during the kiss (which Asuka explicitly says she wanted him to do later on in the series), and Shinji makes no attempt to change this even though Asuka is deliberately prolonging the kiss.</ref> As the kiss ends without the affection she was looking for, Asuka (frustrated with Shinji's passivity and cluelessness) runs to the bathroom to hide her pain. Noisily rinsing her mouth and letting him know how bad of an idea it was to kiss him.  
The moment, however, takes on new meanings when analyzing the scenes present in the director's cut of episode 22, which revisits the moment. There, it is shown that Asuka was seeking some correspondence from Shinji for affection and support, as Kaji's figure was far away. Kaji was supposed to set up as a father figure for Asuka, but she takes advantage of his image to model herself as an adult, and tries to force some closer relationship to show herself as superior and well-developed. Kaji's constant denials in Japan make her fall into disillusionment with him, and only Shinji remains, who, despite having values and personality quite different from hers, is someone close and worthy of some admiration, as he has good results piloting the Evangelion and a justification she understands, although she denies it (acceptance by others, through Evangelion, is the reason for both, but Asuka covers it up with a layer of self-promotion, while Shinji is legitimate in saying he just wants to be accepted and praised).


This is certainly one of the scenes in which the duality of their relationship is most obvious. Asuka tries to deceive Shinji as to the reason why she kisses him and yet at the same time she hopes, deep down, that he is able to realize her deception and break through her barriers. His acceptance isn't enough; she needs more. Unluckily for Asuka, it is not over.
The duality of the scene makes it apparent how Asuka hides many of her true feelings, and that Shinji is too passive to try to understand her any better, accepting her negative response as if it were natural, and as if it is beyond his power to change that. Asuka is unable to tell the truth for fear of rejection, and Shinji is unable to think beyond words, accepting suggestions as if they were orders and never imposing his will. The two, therefore, suffer in silence, and hurt each other by deflecting the truth that they could help each other if they were sincere.


When Kaji arrives home with Misato, she quickly puts up a smile and tries to get him to spend some time with her. As she gets close to him, she briefly clings his arm, but then she smells Misato's perfume on his jacket and realizes something happened between them. Immediately letting go of him, she freezes up and doesn't even say goodbye. Shinji, who was observing the scene, notices from Asuka's expression that something is wrong and inquires to her well being, only to have her irately blame their kiss as the cause of her pain, before she runs off to her room.
When Kaji finally arrives home with Misato, Asuka quickly puts up a smile and tries to get him to spend some time with her, in yet another failed attempt to regain your attention. However, she smells Misato's perfume on his jacket and realizes something happened between them. Immediately letting go of him, she freezes up. Shinji, who was observing the scene, notices from Asuka's expression that something is wrong and inquires to her well being, only to have her irately blame their kiss as the cause of her pain, before she runs off to her room. Asuka is totally unable to tell the truth and express her displeasure. As seen, Asuka's behavior is cyclical. It starts with a rejection, she lies to hide the feeling, then gets rejected again, and ends with another lie.


Official commentary:
In the Newtype Film Book Volume 5, there is the following comment about the scene: "Why does Asuka want to kiss Shinji? Even assuming she was spiteful of Kaji, one doesn't understand the real underlying motive. After the kiss, Asuka states: "I did it just to kill time." She yells, as if to make Shinji perceive it and to confirm it to herself, as if she wants to hide some embarrassment"<ref>Source: [Neon Genesis Evangelion Film Book vol 5, pp. 44–45. https://e-hentai.org/g/942932/a93e1934f0/] (in chinese)</ref>.


''"Why does Asuka want to kiss Shinji? Even assuming she was spiteful of Kaji, one doesn't understand the real underlying motive. After the kiss, Asuka states: "I did it just to kill time." She yells, as if to make Shinji perceive it and to confirm it to herself, as if she wants to hide some embarrassment"<ref> [https://e-hentai.org/g/942932/a93e1934f0/ Neon Genesis Evangelion Film Book vol 5], pp. 44–45.</ref>
From that moment on, the relationship of the two characters, and especially Asuka's mental state, only tends to wither away, which will result in serious consequences for both characters.


An interesting detail about the events of the episode is that they follow a circular structure. The episode begins with Asuka feeling rejected by Kaji, then bored by the date, not feeling understood by Shinji and ends with her, once again, feeling rejected by Kaji.
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===Episode 16===
This is a turning point in the series, in multiple ways. Not only do Shinji and Asuka miss a chance to connect further, they also fail to establish support from one other that they would desperately need as the war with the Angels worsens in subsequent episodes. After this moment and in [[Episode 16]], Evangelion as a whole has a tonal shift, and becomes far darker and more blatantly philosophical and psychological. Being unable to connect to Shinji will be a big contributor in Asuka's ensuing downward spiral as well as Shinji feeling isolated and alone, ultimately leading to him failing to stop Third Impact and entering Instrumentality. '''Had the kiss been successful, even without romance, it is is entirely possible the entire story would have taken a different turn.''' Nonetheless, Eva uses this to further examine just what kept both characters from attaining happiness.
 
This episode will show excerpts from Asuka's frustrations with Shinji's steady growth and success in missions, as well as the effect of recent events on Shinji's self-esteem. The opening scene takes place at Misato's place, where Asuka becomes irritable and Shinji has the immediate reaction of apologizing, which generates a reaction of animosity from Asuka. Misato defends Shinji's behavior, and Asuka says she's being too soft on him, and blames the fact that she's dating Kaji for it. She leaves the scene saying she is disgusted with both of them.
 
The sync tests again show Shinji improving on the tests, this time beating Asuka. Misato congratulates him, which makes him very happy. Asuka is shown to be quite annoyed by this fact. She tries to talk the matter over with Rei, seeking some support, but is ignored, which also frustrates her with Rei's constant indifferentism.
 
This constant defeats, from Kaji to Misato, from Shinji not living up to her expectations, and the synchronization test, deeply shake Asuka's ego, as she is losing the elements that supported her self-esteem. She is running out of options on how to validate herself as a useful and competent person, and feels left behind.
 
During the fight against Leliel, Asuka adopts a sarcastic posture, pointing out that Shinji can handle the situation well enough, as he is the leader of the tests. To her surprise, Shinji accepts the challenge, being covered in confidence. Shinji takes the lead, assuming a macho posture (exactly as Asuka charged him previously), this time weaving negative comments from Asuka and Misato, while Ritsuko is amazed at his sudden maturation. However, his reckless attitude results in him falling into the angel's trap. Shinji despairs, asking Misato for help. Asuka runs to try to rescue him, commenting that it's no use doing well in the sync results if you keep doing poorly in battles. However, as the angel progresses, she and Rei are forced to withdraw.
 
During the time that Shinji is absorbed, Asuka adopts an acting stance, making snide remarks about how his overconfidence only led to this situation. Such comments annoy Rei, who tries to extract from her the reason for piloting the Eva, in which she reinforces that she is only doing it for self-validation. Misato assures Asuka that she will scold Shinji when he returns.
 
From Shinji's perspective, we are shown the way Leliel uses it to communicate with the pilot. He enters Shinji's psyche through his memories and adopting his childlike figure. As it will become usual in the series, we are shown the train scenario. There, Shinji is invaded by thoughts about his motivations and his relationship with his father. He also has visions of Asuka reminding him of his self-deprecating thoughts, as if agreeing with this statement.
 
Finally, with the help of his mother, he manages to break free from Leliel's prison, being released thanks to Eva-01's Berserk. The vision of the Evangelion destroying the angel from within torments everyone watching the scene, especially Asuka, who is terrified by the fact that she is piloting such a horrifying weapon.
 
With Shinji's safe return, Misato hugs him in tears and relief, to which Asuka enviously comments "Weren’t you going to scold him?". At the hospital, Shinji receives Rei's visit, and as she leaves, we notice that Asuka was hiding behind the door. Shinji laughs as he realizes that she cares for him too, and is just too resistant to showing it openly.
 
===Episodes 17 and 18===
 
These two episodes focus on preparations for integrating the Fourth Children and the surrounding characters' reaction to the flow of information. Especially, Toji Suzuhara, the chosen child, has a lot of prominence, and certain scenes serve to extract parallels and reactions from Asuka and Shinji.
 
At the beginning of the episode 17, Shinji and Asuka have an argument in the classroom over the lunch, in which Toji compares them to a married couple, eliciting laughter from the class. The two are embarrassed and deny it, adding yet another romantic comedy tone to the characters' relationship.
 
Afterwards, Asuka takes another lunge at Kaji, trying to force herself close to him, playing the good girl. Kaji, however, doesn't pay much attention, being more concerned about his work. Asuka doesn't give up easily and clings to Kaji, irritating him. At this point, she looks at the computer screen and discovers the identity of the Fourth Children, having a reaction of surprise and fury that takes her out of the guise of a good girl.
 
Perhaps it's interesting to say that, in parallel to Asuka's turmoil of chaotic feelings, and Shinji's constant resentment, Toji and Hikari have a somewhat healthy approach in these two episodes, coming together through legitimate concern and sincere dialogue, showing that both they have personalities that allow them to be more assertive about their needs. This is one of the few examples of a healthy relationship that we see in the show, and it is interesting that it appears and develops after the failed attempts between Shinji and Asuka.
 
In episode 18, it is revealed that Asuka is avoiding Misato, out of jealousy over her approach to Kaji. Misato is well aware of this fact and shields Shinji from further information. Considering the recent events, it can be said that Asuka also notices Misato's preference for Shinji, which also distances her from the guardian.
 
A little later, after class, Asuka is talking to Hikari, proving to be avoiding Shinji as well. She criticizes the fact that Shinji is so dense and clueless about everything that's going on around him, showing herself to be quite affected by it, especially after they kissed. In particular, the kiss seems to have been proof to Asuka that Shinji is an idiot for complete lack of awareness of how to relate to people.
 
Finally at home, the two will have Kaji's company tonight, as Misato is out on account of the new Eva’s arrival. Asuka and Shinji show aloofness, Shinji tries to start a conversation, talking about the new pilot, and Asuka then realizes that Shinji doesn't know his identity yet. She thinks for a moment, and decides not to tell Shinji, in order to preserve him. Kaji then enters the room, and Asuka expresses how happy she should be that he's there tonight, but she can't feel anything. It is noticeable, therefore, that Kaji's constant withdrawal has affected Asuka, and that she also feels divided as to what to think of Shinji, both angering his limitation and preserving him from further suffering. Asuka sounds annoyed that Toji is the new pilot because she doesn't want to compete with another one of the kids, especially someone she has such an unpleasant relationship with. Part of this may also be concern given Toji's proximity to Hikari and Shinji himself. Lying down, Shinji and Kaji talk about relationships, whereupon he asks about Misato. Kaji kindly explains his point of view, in which Shinji shows frustration at not being able to understand how relationships between people work.
 
During the Evangelion activation operation, Bardiel contamination is revealed, leaving Toji trapped inside the Unit. The pilots are called into battle, in which Shinji is quite wary of attacking, knowing there is someone else on the other side. Asuka tries to tell the truth, but is attacked before she can. Shinji doesn't react during the entire fight, afraid to attack, then forcing Gendo to activate the Dummy Plug, which violently defeats the enemy. Shinji finds himself heartbroken at the end of the episode, realizing that he is too far away to understand his father or any other people around him. Misato tries to ask for forgiveness, but is interrupted when Shinji finally discovers the truth, and screams in despair.
 
===Episodes 19 and 20===
 
Shinji is enraged by the events of the previous episode, and is sedated as a security measure. At the hospital, he lies in bed next to Toji. Asuka and Rei stand outside, and Asuka comments that he probably won't recover from what happened.
 
Hikari is sitting next to Toji's bed and when he wakes up she shows a tsundere attitude, probably influenced by being walking with Asuka. She denies being worried about him, even though her physical presence and her confession to Asuka proves otherwise. Hikari and Toji, interestingly, play a role they both delegate to Asuka and Shinji in previous episodes: that of a couple. Whether Hikari and Toji saw Asuka and Shinji as a couple, or were they just playing with the closeness between the two, the fact is that they themselves absorbed this dynamic and became closer to each other.
 
Shinji decides to abandon his role as pilot, and leave Tokyo-3. During his departure, however, an angel attack begins, and he is forced to move around in search of safety. Chaotically, he watches Asuka and Rei fight and being easily defeated. He comes across Kaji in a hedonistic posture, Kaji encourages him to think about his role in the world and the things he can do. He then decides to pilot again, defeating the angel in pure fury. This, however, awakens Eva-01, and as a consequence, he is absorbed into the Unit. The next episode explores the fruits of that experience.
 
Episode 20 bears huge similarities to the scenes shown in the second part of EoE, Episode 26'. It is a first look of what instrumentality would be: an intrapersonal analysis, without the presence of physical bodies, where the mind has free movement between memories, desires and thoughts.
 
Yet, in the outside world, the characters deal with the consequences of Shinji's absorption. Asuka looks pretty confused. She is furious that Misato calls to let her know Rei is okay, and laments that she couldn't do anything against the angel. Again, frustration grows inside her at being overcome by Shinji. Her self-hatred begins to show up.
 
In Shinji's world, reflections on the people he knows begin to emerge. He is confused as to who his enemy really is: the angels or his father. More, he reflects on his relationship with the women in his life: Rei, Misato and Asuka. His relentless pursuit of acceptance and congratulation, and lack of pleasing answers. He has sexually suggestive visions, wondering if this is the kind of recognition he wants. He wants to become one with these women, wants to join his body and mind with them, so that perhaps he can understand and be understood. In EoE, Shinji will describe his relationship with women as chaotic due to their ambiguity. Ambiguous, however, is also the kind of recognition he seeks, being mixed between feelings of maternal affection and repressed sexuality.
 
His relationship with Asuka over the last few episodes is concrete proof of this: he has advances and relapses, not knowing what to do about her. He tried to kiss her, then he didn't kiss her back, he saved her, but he didn't try to build a friendship. His fights with her were based more on incompatibility with her morals than a need to impose his point of view. When he got tired, however, he stopped fighting, and resigned himself to it, but left it that way. Asuka shows aggression, jealousy and envy towards him, but he doesn't look for the reason, feels guilty and tries to disappear. When he disappears, however, they need him. Shinji doesn't understand people, and he doesn't understand his own needs. That way he can't grow.
 
Attempts to rescue Shinji from inside Eva-01 are flawed, as he appears to be in acceptance with the world he finds himself in. His mother finally reveals herself, and he seems to have an insight into the role he wants to play in the world, so he finally returns to the material world.
 
===Episode 22’===
 
An entire episode dedicated to Asuka. Here, we will watch her downfall, resulting from the whole psychic process she was going through, until reaching her exhaustion in the fight against the angel, which leaves her with deep scars.
 
The episode opens with a flashback of Asuka and Kaji arriving in Japan. They are lying down looking at the night sky. Asuka strikes up a conversation with a worried Kaji, anticipating the risks he will face. Kaji tries to cheer Asuka up by saying that she will meet new people in Japan, and make new relationships. Asuka then says she's not interested in boys her age. She rolls over to the body and says she only loves him. Kaji ignores the girl's initiatives, as she says she's ready to kiss and "the stuff after that". Kaji's answer is simple: "you are still a child", to which Asuka protests opening her dress, trying to show a developed body, which, in fact, she doesn't have. Flashes of scenes from later episodes are shown, followed by a torn doll in the neck, stained with drops of blood.
 
These opening scenes present the sexual tension that Asuka goes through. Her sexuality begins to mature and she associates this with growing up, becoming an adult. Given her role in the world, she had the need to seek a certain maturity from an early age, and she associates this with also validating herself as an adult, given the independence that this gives, overcoming the stage of total dependence of a child on the their parents. Kaji is a guardian figure for Asuka, supposed to function as her father, but she denies that role, refusing the idea of being treated like someone dependent. She really wants to be validated as an adult, to have all her suffering accepted as a condition for her rapid growth. She does not fully understand the tensions involved in the “adult world”, such as sexuality and professional and hierarchical commitments, so she refers to the next stages after kissing as "stuff after that", expressing exactly her naivete about the topic. Kaji is fully aware of the kind of affection Asuka wants to build with him, but ignores it, encouraging her to pursue interests typical of her age. After the flash of images, the decapitated doll is shown, revealing the origin of Asuka's traumas. <ref>During the production of Evangelion, Hideaki Anno read several psychology books to build his characters and his story, given the approach he wanted to take. That's probably when he got into psychoanalysis, which greatly influences some passages of the work, as seen in episode titles, soundtracks and in the characters' own behavior. This resorting to the doll image, for example, is a way of representing that Asuka's problems originate in her childhood, marked by recurrent frustrations from unresolved situations, given the early departure from her nuclear family. Source: [https://wiki.evageeks.org/Statements_by_Evangelion_Staff#Hideaki_Anno:_Eva_Special_Talk_with_Anno_Hideaki_and_Toshiya_Ueno_.28Newtype_11.2F1996.29]</ref>
 
The next flashback shows her childhood, the illness and then early death of her mother, her father's new wife, and how she resolves to close herself off to all the pain. We are then shown that she was thinking about these themes during a sync test, and that her results are dropping dramatically. Asuka's constant defeats seem to be bringing her back to bad memories, as a way of reminding her why she does what she does. However, the result is just more pressure on her shoulders, which is wearing her down.
 
At the station, Asuka is trying to call Kaji (who was killed in Episode 21) when she sees Shinji and Rei talking on the other side. She is upset that being trapped in Eva for a month hasn't changed Shinji's usual behavior. Perhaps, she wanted to see that he also suffers, and is affected by the burdens of the situations they face. Shinji always seems to accept everything with the same expression. Asuka cannot visualize the different way in which he handles his burden and she feels even further behind him, being she tormented by the past.


==Episode 16:  Asuka Surpassed==
At home, Misato, Shinji and Asuka eat in silence, being mentally distant from each other. Everyone has something to deal with. The phone rings, and Asuka refuses to answer, believing it to be a call from Kaji to Misato, which she denies. Shinji decides to answer it, in which he hands the phone to Asuka, saying it’s her mother. She picks up the phone violently, and when she answers, she changes her attitude and language, speaking a friendly German. The two speak for a long time, which Shinji watches intently, seeming considerate of Asuka's well-being, and also curious about the fact that she has a mother When the call ends, Asuka confesses that the conversation was an appearance, and that she doesn't really like her stepmother. Then, she regrets having confided such personal matters to Shinji. In a moment off guard, she demonstrates confidence in him to bring up such a subject, but soon remembers that he is a rival, and pushes him away again. <ref>Evangelion Chronicle describes their relationship in the second half of the series as love/hate on Asuka's part, which indicates that she has a duality as to how she feels about him, considering all the factors that revolve around their relationship. This scene is a good example of this duality. On the one hand, she trusts him, and on the other, she pushes him away, seeing him as a rival. Source: [https://imgur.com/a/orJwZWR]</ref>.
[[Image:16_a_busted.jpg|thumb|left|I see you......]]
The opening scene of the episode introduces Asuka as being in a very volatile mood. Likely a consequence of her experiences in the previous episode. Starting off with Asuka attacking Shinji for being too quick to apologize, only to then express her jealousy and frustration at Misato when she tries to take Shinji in defense, accusing her of enabling Shinji's bad habits by being too soft on him and only being in a good mood due to being back together with Kaji. The key moment in the episode, concerning Asuka and Shinji's relationship, is her loss to the latter in the synchronization test. Strongly foreshadowed in previous episodes, the impact of said development on their relationship is truly destructive. Asuka starts to resent Shinji's success because, unlike Shinji, Asuka has not only deposited almost her entire self-worth into piloting, she has spent almost her entire life working for it, so Shinji surpassing her in so little time is unearned and unjust in her opinion, as if he did not deserve this succcess as he has not worked hard enough for it. In a sense, by failing to understand and support Asuka before Episode 16, Shinji also failed to create strong enough foundations to their relationship to prevent it from crumbling under the pressure of the defeated Asuka's resentment. It is important to remember that Asuka's only way to prove to herself her value is by being the best pilot. Taking that away from her forces her to confront herself with all her insecurities. Kaji and Shinji, for different reasons, couldn't offer her an alternative source of support; as such, she receives the full impact of the blow.


In two instances in the episode we see Asuka addressing Shinji sarcastically as Shinji-sama; first, in a burst of anger as she is in the locker room (with Rei) and then during the fight against Leliel. In that instance Asuka provokes Shinji to charge the angel on his own, causing him to get trapped and nearly costing him his life. It's interesting to note that Shinji attacks the angel with the express intention to prove himself to Asuka, and even says "combat is a man's job", a rather offensive statement when all of his teammates and immediate superiors are women, as if he feels emboldened by kissing Asuka. Misato and Ritsuko even notice that Shinji is suddenly acting more manly. Shinji charges headfirst against Leliel and the Angel easily traps and absorbs him, as Asuka and Rei watch helplessly.
During the bath, Asuka is again depressed, given her menstruation. She openly expresses wanting to be away from Shinji and Misato, given the vulnerable situation in which she finds herself and how both represent an aspect that hurt her, that of rivalry (for Kaji, and as a pilot). In a tantrum, she then confides her deepest secret: she actually hates herself, and so turns others away. Misato listens attentively, with a look of concern.


After Shinji is absorbed, Asuka tries to mask her concern for Shinji by saying he acted recklessly and deserved it, which angers Rei. Interestingly, Rei picks up on the fact Asuka is envious of Shinji attaining a higher synch score. After Shinji's safe return, she is shown to further express envy for the attention given to him, when Misato hugs him in tears, by saying to her: "Didn't you say you would scold him?".  
The next day, Asuka’s results are bordering on minimal, causing Ritsuko to consider dismissing her. Misato argues about the menstruation, but Ritsuko says the problem goes deeper, being related to her psyche. Asuka complains in the bathroom about the fact that she is menstruating, saying that she doesn't want to have children and so she shouldn't be having this.


In spite of that, the episode ends on a somewhat positive note, when Asuka is seen awkwardly lurking in the hallway of the hospital in an attempt to check on Shinji's well being without being noticed. Of course she gets caught, prompting Shinji to laugh for the first time in the series. The clear implication of the scene is that Asuka felt guilty for her over-reaction and that she still cares about Shinji, even though Shinji remains clueless at Asuka's growing frustrations.
Then, one of the most iconic scenes in the anime happens. Asuka and Rei take the same elevator, in which they spend 50 seconds in real time not saying anything to each other. Then Rei breaks the silence, advising her to open her heart. Asuka reacts with fury and downplays Rei's words. She quickly puts Shinji at the heart of the matter, saying that no matter what they do, he will always solve their problems. She confesses her hatred for Rei and storms out after slapping Rei in the face after she says she would die for Gendo Ikari. Ironically, Asuka heed Rei's advice and then went to talk to her Eva, hoping to open her heart.


==Episode 17: Repression==
An angel attack begins, and Asuka is ordered to be Rei's backup, which she denies and goes into battle. Asuka is soon overcome by the angel and they starts the mental attack (dubbed by the fanbase as “mindrape sequence”). Asuka begs the angel not to invade her mind, and flash images swarm across the screen, demonstrating its content. Words like "tod" (death in German), "sex", "Nein" (no) appear in quick frames, showing what the angel captures from Asuka's mind at that moment. Asuka's mental infection progresses exponentially, and she suffers enormously. Misato despairs of saving her, asking her to back off, but she refuses. After some more exposure time, the angel succeeds in entering Asuka's mind. Images from her childhood are shown to her in third person, just as it was for Shinji when he was inside Leliel. She tries to fight the pressure of the memories, but her mother's devastating speeches throw her off balance. She has a confusion of her identity, hearing other people's voices in her body, and denying these images as her own. Afterwards, she has a vision of walking through a crowd, in which she asks Kaji for help. Memories tangle, and Kaji's rejection juxtaposes Shinji's image.
The only relevant scenes in the episode concern Asuka and Shinji, is when Asuka chews him out for failing to bring lunch to school for her, and Shinji meekly making excuses in return, leading them to get accused by Toji of fighting like a married couple, which they both deny.


Later, at the end of the episode, Asuka is seen trying to spend some time with Kaji. As Asuka is outside of Kaji's office she is shown to look sullen and dejected. It's only after she takes a deep breath, takes a moment to focus, and puts on her cutest smile that she enters the room. It is the first time we get a clear look at the way Asuka truly feels in relation to Kaji. While she might have put her mind to pursuing him, her heart is not truly in it, and as such the happiness she shows towards him is, and always has been, to an extent, forced. She tries to be at her best in order to appeal to him, but in truth she feels hurt and rejected. This further reminds us of how important Shinji's role as Kaji's replacement is and how in need of affection and company she is. Asuka's increasing jealousy towards Misato also comes up again, when an absent-minded Kaji tries to wave her off with the excuse that he is busy, and she complains - half to him, half to herself - that he always seem to find the time for Misato, before trying to push him even harder into paying attention to her by aggressively hugging him from behind, despite his outspoken annoyance.
With Shinji in mind, Asuka's true intent at various times in the previous episodes is revealed. In the "Wall of Jericho" scene, she is frustrated and alone. The text says "you won't do anything, you won't help me!" even with memories of her being saved from the lava. Her intentions are revealed in the kissing scene. She says "you won't even hold me!"<ref>In Japanese, "to hold someone" can be undertood as a double entendre for [https://jisho.org/word/%E6%8A%B1%E3%81%8F-1 "having sex with"]. In effect, Asuka may be not only lamenting that Shinji won't support her and hold her during the kiss, but that he didn't even at least give her affection through sex. This specific subject is widely discussed on the fanbase, with materials dedicated to the subject, with arguments for both sides, as seen here: [https://forum.evageeks.org/thread/19271/Do-you-love-me-Theory-Asuka-and-Shinji-Had-Sex-in-Episode-15/] [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fiH3RL2ZG-s].


==Episode 18: Cluelessness==
The sentence has other appearances throughout the series, resonating with this dubious meaning, although in more specific cases. For example, in [[Episode 25]], during Misato's Instrumentality section, she is questioned by Ritsuko why she slept with Kaji. Misato replies that "I embraced him because I loved him.". Similarly, in [[Episode 24]], when Ritsuko says to Gendo: "Now that I am not happy even if you hold me. You can do anything you like to my body, as you did at that time.". In the English dub, the context here is more obvious, so it's outright translated as "when you make love to me".</ref> while she looks sad in the bathroom when she says she's disgusted. Asuka actually wanted some correspondence from Shinji, probably strong enough to replace her need for the figure of Kaji. Shinji, however, did not fulfill this role, being too passive for her needs. Shinji's posture, in not seeming affected by the situations around him, creates a false sense of rejection towards her, when in fact he is equally confused and divided, as shown in episode 20. <ref>Such observations are reinforced by the comments made available in Platinum Booklets, which are direct translations of the contents present in the re-release of Evangelion 2002, Renewal of Evangelion. The comment is as follows: " [...] And likewise, after the kiss scene from Episode Fifteen, "Lies and Silence," there is a new scene showing her looking frustrated after rinsing her mouth. And from Asuka's dialogue that overlaps these scenes, it becomes clear that she has been looking for help and love from Shinji." Source: [https://pdfcoffee.com/neon-genesis-evangelion-platinum-booklets-pdf-free.html]</ref>
[[File:Ngefeet.jpg|thumb|In this scene, Asuka's uneasiness and nervousness at Shinji being on her mind, and talking about him with Hikari, is made quite clear]]  
Another episode that is relatively light on Asuka-Shinji. Asuka is shown to go out of her way to avoid Misato and Shinji, as she clearly has yet to accept having "lost" to them. It is hinted at that Shinji has yet to understand Asuka's jealousy for Kaji, as he is shown to ask Misato why Asuka is trying to avoid her. It is in fact his cluelessness that becomes the main theme of the episode. Though she usually goes home from school with Shinji, this time Asuka is avoiding him, something Hikari also notes as strange. When Hikari asks about him, the second pilot refers to Shinji by saying: "Actually, he's the most dense of them all. And he's an idiot to boot. He doesn't know how to relate to people." She also expresses her annoyance at Shinji having yet to learn the identity of the fourth pilot (Toji). It is interesting to see how, after the kiss, Asuka seems to be even more frustrated by Shinji's density. Further reminding us of the main issue in their relationship; he just doesn't get it and he is too passive to make up for it. When Kaji is in their apartment later, Asuka is surprised to realize that Shinji doesn't know who is the pilot of [[Unit 03]], but stops herself from telling him when he asks. She essentially comes to the same conclusion that Misato made earlier; Shinji will likely be greatly upset from learning the news, and she doesn't feel up to the task of shouldering the ensuring emotional fallout. As a result, she tries to change subjects and to talk about Kaji. Shinji also has a conversation with Kaji, and he tells him about how different men and women are. Shinji is, however, frustrated that he cannot understand them, or other people in general.


Perhaps most pivotal, Asuka learns, while she and the other pilot lies in wait for Bardiel, that Shinji still does not know that Toji is the pilot of Eva-03. Asuka, for what it is worth, finally decides to bite the bullet and attempts to do the thing that everyone around Shinji, including herself, have been trying to avoid for the longest time, namely telling him the truth. But before Asuka can finally break the reveal out loud, Bardiel sneaks in on her while she is distracted, and incapacitate her and Eva-02. The underlying message is quite clear; Asuka and Shinji's inability to communicate openly and honestly with each other is now directly hampering their effectiveness as team members.
The angel tries to make more contact with Asuka, in which she tries to reassure her independence, saying that she will live on her own. Flashes of images of close people appear, while she denies help from other people. The angel calls her a liar and attacks her mind again. More text flashes appear as Asuka howls in pain. In the real world, she looks exhausted and says she's defiled, begging for Kaji's help. Finally, the bridge decides to use the Lance of Longinus to defeat the angel, putting Rei in charge.


==Episode 19 and 20==
Asuka is removed from Eva and placed in a containment zone, Shinji stands nearby, outside, and tries to talk to her. Asuka sharply cuts him off, and says that, of all people, she was saved by Rei, which offends her deeply. The episode ends with her enacting her hatred of everyone.
Worthy of note is the fact that Shinji proves once again his superiority too Asuka by defeating Zeruel, who proved too strong for the second pilot, even as Asuka recklessly and impulsively attacks the Angel, trying to prove to herself and others that she is still the best. At the end of the fight Shinji remains stuck inside his Eva. Asuka is shown to suffer deeply after her loss to the boy, being more concerned by her failure than by Shinji's well being.


==Episode 22: A subconscious need==
For a theoretical insight into flash scenes and their meaning through montage, see also: [[Theory and Analysis:Film Montage Theory in Evangelion]].


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Arguably the most important episode of the series for Asuka's character as we are offered an even more intimate exploration of the struggles she is experiencing. The episode opens with a flashback, focused on Asuka and Kaji, before they get to Japan. In it, Asuka confesses her feelings to the man and receives a clear rejection; she is too young for him. She was willing to open up to him, only to be hurt in return. As it was hinted at, in ep.18, Asuka had been feeling rejected from the first moment we see her in the series. Connected to the flashback is the following scene, in which Asuka, at a station, is trying to call Kaji on the phone but fails to get through to him on the phone. As she looks up, she notices Rei and Shinji on another platform, talking (the first time since Shinji's incident), prompting an annoyed reaction: "He spent an entire month dissolved inside Eva and he's already back to his old ways. After all, I lost... and to the likes of you."
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===Episodes 23' and 24'===
 
The latest events have enormously shaken the spirits and self-esteem in Misato's place. She is listening to Kaji's phone messages, looking for a meaning to move forward, Asuka left home to no longer have to face Shinji and Misato after the humiliation she suffered in the previous episode. Shinji, confused, wonders if she will come back.
 
Asuka took shelter at Hikari's house, and spends her days playing video games. She no longer demonstrates her former personality, being unrecognizable. She speaks softly, in an unconventional tone, and doesn't take her eyes off the screen. In bed, Asuka asks if she's being a nuisance, and says she's lost her purpose. Again, she reaffirms that she hates everything, but on top of that, she hates herself the most. Hikari says she did what she could, and Asuka starts to cry, feeling that this isn't enough.
 
The last battle was the ultimate deconstruction of Asuka's entire life purpose. She, who has lived her whole life seeing the Eva as a way to express herself to the world, finds herself in a situation where her efforts are not enough, and, worst of all, she was surpassed by other people. First, by Shinji, the one in whom she had pinned hopes of possible comfort, but who disappointed her with his naivete and indifference. Then by Rei, who represents everything she struggles with: a person she sees as totally passive and domesticated, who just takes orders and expresses no affection. A doll, the fruit of her hatred. The pain of being rendered useless in her purpose, as well as the feeling of being scorned by Kaji, Misato and Shinji, is too much for her to handle. The angel's attack, exposing her deepest fears and defiling her ego, was the last straw. She seeks shelter in the only person she trusts and feels reciprocated: Hikari, but tries to keep a safe distance, to avoid further injuries.
 
The next day, there is another angel attack. Asuka, Shinji and Rei are brought in for the operation. Gendo doesn't want Shinji to fight given Eva-01's exposure to the S² Organ. Asuka tries to activate her Eva, but it's useless. Only Rei remains to fight, being defeated. As a last resort, she sacrifices herself to prevent the angel's advance.
 
Rei's death shakes Shinji. Without her, he lost all the bases of normality he had managed to establish in Tokyo-3. Misato is depressed and isolated due to Kaji's death, Asuka left home, and his father used him to hurt Toji. Rei was the only one left, and now she was dead. In a short hope, he comes to know that she was alive, but is surprised by her sudden change. Ritsuko reveals the truth to her and Misato, and he loses all his support base.  


Asuka's resentment is clear; she still feels defeated by Shinji, as Misato will also point out later in the episode, and she hates the fact that he was able to go back to his normality so easily. Yet, she may also be feeling a bit jealous of the attention Shinji is giving to Rei, even though Asuka is the one that distanced herself from him, to begin with. Once again the duality of their relationship comes into play to complicate things.
These events leave Shinji mentally vulnerable, to the point where he put all his faith and hope in Kaworu, who appears in the next episode.  


As Misato, Shinji and Asuka are sharing their first dinner together since the incident, Asuka is shown to still feel jealous of Kaji. When they receive a phone call at home, Asuka sulks and refuses to pick it up, suspecting it could be her ex-guardian wanting to talk to Misato (when Misato quietly comments that it is not very likely, it visibly arouses Asuka's curiosity, indicating that she is either oblivious to or in denial (or possibly both) about Kaji's absence and the implications of said absence). It proves to be her stepmother instead. After she is done talking on the phone, Shinji tries to learn more about her family, commenting that it must be nice to have someone to talk to. Asuka, in a rare unguarded moment, earnestly explains to him that her feelings towards her stepmother are mostly ones of indifference, only to stop herself and immediately going back to shouting at him when she realizes what she is doing. The implication here is, once again, Asuka's need for someone to open up to and to confide in. Shinji could be that person, but Asuka can't seem to accept it.
With everyone far away, Shinji finds himself in need of some source of comfort, which Kaworu performs well, being a kind and caring person. It's enough for Shinji to ignore all current problems, trying to alienate himself from the harsh reality his friends face. He refuses to accept the suffering of others, as he finds himself without tools to help them. As the title of episode 21 says, "he was aware that he was just a child".


The key moment of the episode is Asuka's mind-violation sequence (during the fight against Arael), as it allows us to take a peek into her subconscious. Asuka's loneliness and need for help and love, is the main focus of the scene. As she receives further confirmation that Kaji is lost to her, she notices Shinji beside her ex-guardian. Forced to come to terms with her feelings for him, she snarls: "Why are you there?! You won't do anything! You never help me! You won't even hold me!". As she states that, we are shown flashes of instances, throughout the series, in which Asuka had been in need of Shinji's support: the "walls of Jericho" and the kiss, being the most relevant. She had been needing Shinji throughout the series, yet, due to his passivity and cluelessness, she never felt understood and supported by him. As such, Asuka has not interpreted Shinji's inaction, particularly during the kiss, as passivity, insecurity or lack of experience, but as outright rejection on his part.  
At the beginning of the episode, a flashback of Asuka shows her finding her mother dead, soon after being selected to be the pilot of Eva-02. Then, another flashback, with Shinji revealing to her Kaji's death. Finally, we have a scene from the present time: Asuka is lying in a filthy bathtub in a destroyed house. She is naked and completely vulnerable, surrendered. Her clothes are folded on a chair beside her, a Japanese tradition in the face of consented death, of leaving all belongings organized. The scene says it all: Asuka has given up on living, and is awaiting death. She can't stand the shame of defeat anymore and doesn't want to be anyone's weight, not even Hikari. She got tired, the purpose of her life is over. The two flashbacks demonstrate the lack of support she has: Asuka lost her mother very early, just as her life's destiny was defined, and recently she also lost her guardian, a father figure with whom she wanted to play a adult role. And worse: she learned through Shinji, her rival and the one who belittled her feelings.  


This is outright stated in the Episode 22 Platinum Commentaries:
Asuka is only saved thanks to the search of NERV Intelligence, who locate and rescue her. As she is no longer usefull as a pilot, she will be replaced by Fifth Children: Kaworu Nagisa. Which, as mentioned above, creates a bond with Shinji, based on his fragility and escape from reality. Kaworu eventually reveals himself to be the last angel, and forces Shinji to kill him. Such an event destroys Shinji, making it clear that he cannot escape reality, however painful it may be. He tried to close himself off from the pain, his own and of others, and only betrayed himself.


'''"And likewise, after the kiss scene from Episode Fifteen, "Lies and Silence," there is a new scene showing her looking frustrated after rinsing her mouth. And from Asuka's dialogue that overlaps these scenes, it becomes clear that she has been looking for help and love from Shinji."'''<ref>[http://www.evamonkey.com/platinum-booklets/episode-commentaries-21-26.php Episode 22 Platinum Commentaries]</ref>
At this point, Asuka and Shinji completely got out of sync with each other. Although they once trusted each other, now all that remains is the feelings of fear and resentment. Asuka sees Shinji as someone who has betrayed her expectations and trust, and Shinji turns away from Asuka because he doesn't know how to help her. He is actually afraid of hurting her even more. Such feelings will be evidenced in End of Evangelion.


It is important to note that, in the second part of the mind-violation, Asuka denies feeling lonely and reaffirms her independent attitude. The mind-violation doesn't help Asuka better accept herself or Shinji, it simply serves the purpose of allowing the viewer to better understand her.
===Episodes 25 and 26===


The last scene of the episode has Shinji try to comfort Asuka, only to be pushed away by her, as she is furious about having been saved by Rei. She is not yet willing to accept his help, not while blinded by her anger.
These episodes, which demonstrate the characters within Instrumentality, will serve as a psychotherapeutic component of them, reviewing the main themes that make up their personalities and behavior. For Asuka and Shinji, this is a key element in understanding the closeness and similarities between the two characters.
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Shinji is tormented by Kaworu's death, he begs for help and claims he had no choice but to kill him. He had no choice, as this is his role: to defeat the angels. Even so, he doesn't feel accepted by others, he feels alone, with no one to say he did the right thing. On the contrary, he killed the one who praised him. When he asks for compliments, Asuka comes up and says he's been lying to himself. Piloting the Eva is not about pleasing others, it's about pleasing yourself, as she does. As she judges him for pursuing a false happiness, Rei appears and compares the two. Then, the focus of the scene shifts to Asuka, who is once again inside Eva-02. She remains depressed, calling Eva and herself a piece of junk, and saying it's useless to everyone. Rei, playing the same role Asuka was playing with Shinji, says she was just looking for others' approval.


See also the inspiration for the extended Director's Cut mindrape scene in the [[Theory and Analysis:Shinji and Asuka's Relationship#Notes|Notes]] section.
Both Shinji and Asuka suffer from Separation Anxiety. According to psychology, separation anxiety is a disorder where the child is very afraid of separating from their parents, becoming anxious and refusing to go away from them. <ref>https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/separation-anxiety-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20377455</ref> In the context of the series, the parents are represented by the Evas, and how the relationship of the pilots with them is difficult, as piloting the units is the only form of validation they find. Without the Evas, both Shinji and Asuka find themselves empty on purpose, and lose their communication channels with the world. The problem is that piloting the Evas is a painful and destructive process, and they both know it well, as they point out to each other.


===Episode 22 Flash-Sign Montages===
A little later in the episode, Asuka has memories of her stepmother, by whom she feels rejected, as she is more interested in her father than in being her new mother. She also has memories of her mother, depressed and catatonic, just before her death, and her ignoring Asuka as a daughter, treating a doll as if it were the girl. Asuka thus decided not to be passive to the wishes of others, seeking independence, and rejects the image of a "doll" given the traumatic context with her mother. Even so, it is clear that she needs the approval of others, which punctuates the contradiction in her life. She seeks validation through Eva, and wants to be understood as strong and determined, but at the same time, she needs others to be seen that way, she needs approval, just like Shinji. The only difference is the way they both express their loneliness to the world. Shinji seeks Eva to feel good about others, and thus feel good about himself. Asuka seeks Eva to feel good about herself, and thus gain the admiration of others. In both cases, there is society, and the other, involved, and their incompatibility with their inner world is the great source of frustration for both. The way she feels helpless is what generates Asuka's hatred of everything, and that dependence generates self-hatred. Finally, Asuka admits that she doesn't want to be alone, as Shinji and Misato appear and clamor not to be alone either.  
See this page: [[Theory and Analysis:Film Montage Theory in Evangelion]] for a complete interpretation of this following piece.


Asuka, during the Episode 22 mindrape, is forced to come to terms with the nature of her relationship with others and society, trying to reject others but eventually having to come to terms with her inability to remain alone.
All three, despite living together, were unable to build bridges with each other to feel the necessary trust to support each other. They failed to build a family bond, even though they had the opportunity to do so. Even though Misato feels affection for both of them that can be compared to that of a mother for her children, her confusion at the maelstrom of emotions that enveloped her from Kaji to Nerv affected her in such a way that it alienated her from both of them. Shinji's failure was to be afraid to open up to others, and Asuka's was to hide everything she felt and needed, from both Misato and Shinji.


==Episode 23==
Episode 26 continues the self-analysis, and Shinji and Asuka reflect their fear of existing. The lines of the two characters overlap, as it is now known that they are both more similar than they wanted to demonstrate. Instrumentality is justified by people's fear of facing pain and frustration. Insecurity permeates their hearts, and with that the way out is to become one, in a static and painless world.
Shinji, clearly frustrated by his surrogate family rapidly falling apart at the seams, but also feeling powerless to do anything about it, is seen standing outside the door to Asuka's room, noticing that she once again is spending the night at Hikari's house, and quietly wishes that she would come back. It obvious that his wish for Asuka's return at this point is more about having some sense of normalcy restored to the household than anything else.


==Episode 24==
Both characters agree that it is through Eva that they find their identity. Outside the Eva, they find nothing, no sustenance in their lives. And that's the justification for their separation anxiety. They confuse this emptiness with hate coming from the world, when in fact it is an internalized feeling that resonates in their hearts and feeds back in a destructive way. Again, Asuka and Shinji see each other through the past. Both feel rejected by their parents, and seek the comfort of a close figure. Both want a cure for their loneliness, but they can't deal with their own dilemmas.
In a flashback to about one week before the real start of the episode, what can be assumed to be Asuka and Shinji's last conversation in Misato's apartment is shown. Already from the scene transition, which has Asuka audibly slapping Shinji and angrily accusing him of lying, it is clear that their relationship is at its lowest, and they are now completely unable to talk normally to each other. Shinji's equally angry and frustrated reply makes it clear what has happened; he has realized that Kaji is dead and will not be coming back, and has tried to explain this to Asuka who is by now in obvious denial about that fact. Asuka repeats her insistence that Shinji is just lying, but her despondent facial expression betrays that she on some level knows that he is saying is true. The distress from this revelation has a serious impact on Asuka's already severely weakened psyche and it is what finally pushes her completely over the edge; as the narrative finally cuts to the present, she has been on the run from home for seven days and seen lying in a bathtub in the ruins of a house, obviously physically weakened and completely sapped of the will to live as Section 2 finally finds her.


Later in the episode, as Shinji contemplates his loneliness and isolation from his friends, he lists Asuka amongst the persons he misses and wish he could talk to. Notably, Shinji, by his own admission, has no idea about Asuka's current whereabouts and condition, implying that Misato has by this point not yet divulged the information about Asuka's recovery. What is also notable is that he appears to be at least somewhat oblivious to how deeply he hurt her during their last confrontation. While fighting Kaworu, Shinji also apologizes to Asuka when he is about to hit [[Unit 02]], as he is in a way being forced by Kaworu to fight her by proxy. Despite the growing distance between one another, Shinji does not ''wish'' to hurt her, even if Asuka might think otherwise.
Finally, Shinji understands that his view of the world is moldable through the perspectives on which he looks at life. An alternate reality is then constructed, where Asuka is a childhood friend with whom he has a similar relationship to the series, but where there is greater trust between them.


==Episode 26==
Like the series, this alternate reality copies tropes of a school comedy, and makes the proximity between the characters the target of jokes and implications about the kind of intimacy they have. When Rei emerges and catches Shinji's attention, Asuka becomes uncomfortable and irritable, which triggers an argument between the two girls.<ref>The artistic freedom of ADV's dubbing gave birth to Rei's infamous “are you riding his baloney poney?” phrase.</ref>


The alternate universe shown in this episode makes use of traditional anime school setting tropes, with Asuka presented as Shinji's childhood friend, a setting later recycled in spin-offs such as [[Girlfriend of Steel 2 (manga)|Angelic Days]] and [[Shinji Ikari Raising Project]]. Rei, as a transfer student, even plays the role of a romantic rival - something that isn't necessarily the case in the series proper. She even reacts jokingly to Asuka getting defensive over Shinji, which in the old ADV dub gave birth to the famous "are you riding his baloney poney?" line, one of the results of ADV's creative liberties.  
Between scenes, a frame from one of the desks appears, with the inscriptions of Asuka and Shinji's names. This is another school anime trope, called Aiai-gasa, or "Love Umbrella". One of several versions of Aiai-gasa is writing the names of two people under an umbrella, implying that they are in a loving relationship. This can be done either by bullying/ teasing or by one of those involved. There are also notes and scribbles on the table, with words like "anta-baka" and “how lewd”, imply that Asuka saw the drawing and scribbled over it in embarrassment. Alternatively, she might have written at a discreet moment and then scribbled to get the class's attention. Both are common situations in the genre, and also match the "tsundere" profile associated with Asuka. <ref>For more information about the various versions of Aiai-gasa, see: https://learnjapaneseanime.com/culture-custom/people/aiai-gasa/</ref>


[[Image:Ep26 AU Umbrella Easter Egg.png|250px|thumb|right|The mysterious pupil.]]
Seeing this alternate reality convinces Shinji that he can live in the real world if he comes to see things from a new perspective, but for that he needs to learn to accept himself. One of the last lines of the episode, “but I might be able to love myself”, is said by Shinji, Asuka and Rei, according to the script. Giving the conclusion that the three characters reached the end of their dilemmas, through the same answer: what they needed was to learn to deal with themselves, so they could open up to the world, and build healthy relationships. In this alternate reality, Shinji and Asuka have always been friends, and the approximations between them are treated in a light and relaxed vibe, not in the destructive and tense way that happened in reality.  


This scene even features an easter egg echoing the old shoujo manga Anno likes: one of the desks features a drawing of an umbrella with Asuka and Shinji's names written on them. This "love umbrella" is an [https://taiken.co/single/ai-ai-gasa-japanese-love-umbrellas/ old reference] to someone being [https://learnjapaneseanime.com/culture-custom/people/aiai-gasa/ paired up as a couple]. It's similar to writing a heart shape with "Asuka+Shinji" inside it. Whose pupil this is written on isn't made obvious, though it also has "anta baka" written underneath, and the umbrella is not only "divided", but it's scribbled all over. There's another "how lewd!" comment, also scribbled over. This could have been made by Touji and/or Kensuke poking fun at the "married couple" as they do early in other episodes, with Asuka taking notice of it and scribbling over it, or Asuka simply drew this herself, only to immediately regret it, and try to erase it, and calling herself an idiot for doing so, in her usual prideful tsundere manner, with her classmates also taking notice later.<ref>"It is mainly women to develop romantic emotions by writing “Aiai-gasa” marks on notes, diaries, grounds and so on. '''This has a meaning as a love spell.''' [...] If a third party knows the feelings of the target person, a third party sometimes teases them by writing “Aiai-gasa” with the subject’s name on the blackboard. However, there are cases in which such chilling leads to bullying." - [https://learnjapaneseanime.com/culture-custom/people/aiai-gasa/ Article on "love umbrellas"] </ref> It's unlikely Shinji did it himself, as he's, of course, shy about expressing his feelings.
This ending conveys the message of understanding among people through self-acceptance. Something fundamental for both Shinji and Asuka. End of Evangelion will also explore this message, but through a new approach, much more raw and dark, which will allow new analyzes about these two characters.


==End of Evangelion==
==End of Evangelion==
===Episode 25’===


===Episode 25'===
The film opens with the infamous hospital scene. Shinji, desperate and lost after Kaworu's death, seeks out Asuka. He thinks she is the only one who can still give him some normalcy. Misato is completely immersed in finding out about Seele, and what he'd learned about Rei had scared him. Only Asuka is left, only she can give him some comfort. But Asuka is in induced sleep, given her recent trauma. Shinji is desperate for attention, and pulls her so that her breasts are exposed. Shinji masturbates for her, then moans. Such decision marks the character a lot, as it puts his morality in check. Knowing now that he has no one to lean on, and that his form of comfort can manifest itself in aggression and abuse, Shinji slowly begins to give up on living.
[[File:Hospital Scene--High Angle Fan Service.png|thumb|Later on, Asuka implies she knows this is not the first time.|200px]]
The first part of the movie opens with Shinji seeking comfort and attention from a hospitalized Asuka, as she is asleep (likely drug-induced) and unable to respond.


Increasingly desperate, Shinji shakes the girl's body, attempting to wake her up, until he inadvertently rips her shirt open and exposes her breasts. It is at this point that all the pent-up frustration and attraction, that the boy felt for Asuka, push him to masturbate right next to her. A rash and violent decision which ends up being the cause of Shinji's temporary breakdown.
Shinji's attitude towards Asuka can be interpreted in different ways. Firstly, it is known that Shinji feels some attraction to Asuka, given previous interactions with her. The relationship between them, however, was quite troubled given the constant frustrations generated by one side or the other. Furthermore, Shinji is desperate for some comfort, and sees the moment as a way to release his tension. Immediately afterward, he feels remorse, knowing that what he did was dirty and abusive, given Asuka's condition of total vulnerability.


It should be noted that, at this point of the story, Shinji perceives Asuka to be the only person whose love could help him recover and feel better, as he admits to her that he is scared of Rei and Misato.  
Shinji was never honest with Asuka about feeling some attraction to her, he masked that even when she brought it up (episode 9). The attitude at the hospital is a fulfillment of a fantasy, but it also becomes a pillar of his downfall. Asuka's reactions to Shinji's attitude and personality in general will be explored further in the second half of the film.


During the later stages of the episode, in her fight against the MPEs, Asuka, who found in her mother's soul the support she needed to recover, makes a comment about Shinji's absence: "Jeez! Don't they ever stop!? And I can't even count on that idiot Shinji!!". Despite the annoyed tone, the remark can be seen as her admission of needing the boy's support in the fight. Likely implying her acceptance and wish to make peace with him and to forget, at least temporarily, about their past issues. Unluckily, her loss is inevitable, as Shinji fails to arrive in time. Shinji repeatedly asks for Asuka to help him, which Misato criticizes him for, and he does not move even when Misato tells him he needs to pilot and to help her, but Shinji, after killing Kaworu, believes that every time he gets in an Eva he only hurts people and causes more pain. As such, he refuses to pilot until Misato dies, but, after spending so much time hiding himself and refusing to move, by the time he arrives in [[Unit 01|Unit 01's]] cage the Eva is already enclosed in bakelite.<ref>It is interesting that Yui waited  until Asuka's apparent death to move Eva 01. Some suggest she deliberately chose to let Asuka die in order to get Shinji to enter Instrumentality, though it is debatable if she did this because she wanted Third Impact to happen or merely because she thought there was no way of saving Asuka and at least she would have a chance if her soul was collected by Lilith and brought into Instrumentality. See: [[Theory and Analysis:Yui's Agenda]]</ref> Similarly to how he failed to support Asuka emotionally in the series, Shinji also fails to help her during the MPE fight, causing her to get physically hurt, '''and this has the ultimate effect of allowing Third Impact to happen'''. If Shinji was able to get to the Eva early, it is entirely possible he and Asuka could have defeated the [[Mass Production Evangelion|MP Evas]]. When the Eva finally moves to let Shinji in, Shinji finally sees Asuka's multilated [[Unit 02]]. Shinji screams in horror.
During the attack on Nerv, Misato and the rest of the crew mobilize to protect the children. Asuka is transferred to Eva-02 and left safely at the bottom of the lake. Shinji is missing, and Misato personally goes to get him. Shinji, as already said, has given up on living, and is catatonic amidst the chaos. Misato has to defend him all the way. Shinji starts to react when he learns from the radio that Asuka has awakened and is fighting the enemy, but he still can't force himself to act. Asuka, on the other hand, has regained consciousness after her mother's contact with her soul. She fights with vigor, like never before, and complains about Shinji's absence to help her. Apparently, by reconnecting with a sense of life, she was able to overcome Shinji's grudge, and was willing to collaborate with him.


===Episode 26'===
The situation becomes tense on Nerv and it becomes clear to Misato that she won't survive. She once again tries to convince. Misato kisses him, says goodbye and then dies. Shinji remains static when he sees that Eva-01 is covered in bakelite. Asuka continues to fight the MPEs, but is eventually overcome by the creatures' power. She is cruelly murdered, having her left eye and right arm severely injured, and then being impaled. Just after Asuka's death, Eva-01 moves.<ref>It is interesting that Yui waited until Asuka's apparent death to move Eva 01. It’s debatable if she chose to let Asuka die or not, and if she wanted to reach Instrumentality. See: Theory and Analysis:Yui's Agenda</ref> The unit is fully awake, with visible wings. The unit flies, scaring anyone who sees it. Shinji then has a vision of how destroyed Eva-02 is, and finally realizes what happened to Asuka. He screams in horror.
An episode rich in Asuka-Shinji content, it also proves to be one of the most difficult to interpret. Taking place, nearly in its entirety, during Instrumentality, it allows Asuka and Shinji to confront each other in a way they never could in the series. Often times it is impossible to determine with certainty if the characters are themselves or just a projection, a limited representation of who they really are. Regardless of this, the four main exchanges between Asuka and Shinji are worthy of individual analysis.


What is, however, worth noticing when it comes to the bigger picture, is that the second and fourth exchanges are essentially twisted retakes of events from the show; respectively, Asuka and Shinji's disastrous kiss from Episode 15, and Shinji confronting Asuka with Kaji's death in Episode 24. What is notable here is that these moments, while not outright unimportant to Shinji in and of themselves, are arguably of much greater and central importance to Asuka's character arc than they are to his. Both events can be summed up as moments where Shinji has inadvertently done profound and deep emotional damage to Asuka. Where the first event started Asuka on her course to towards the edge, the second was by all appearances what finally pushed her over it. What both cases also have in common, is that Shinji was by all means more or less oblivious to the full extend of the harm these moments did to Asuka. Here, however, Asuka is finally able to make it clear just how deeply he has failed her and lets him have it with both barrels.
===Episode 26’===
In this final episode, Asuka and Shinji are at the forefront, serving as the ultimate illustration of humanity's dilemmas and fate. Almost all of its entirety takes place during Instrumentality, as well as the traditional episodes 25 and 26. Therefore, all the content shown is a symbolic interpretation of the unconscious contents of the characters, amidst the great unification of their minds and hearts through Third Impact. Their minds were joined, and thus the thoughts and memories of one character are present in another, as time and space became irrelevant, and the cognition of all beings became one. Shinji has access to Misato's memories, and Asuka has access to Shinji's thoughts, for example. The barriers of all the characters' hearts have been broken down, and now they can be honest with themselves and others once and for all. That's why this chapter is so important to Asuka and Shinji. Because, through it, we will know the true meanings that one has for the other.
 
First, in sequence of the events of the previous episode, Shinji is horrified to see Asuka dead and her Eva completely destroyed. He finally seems to have lost all the people he cared about, and he couldn't do anything to help her (or, better said, he couldn't feel motivated to). Eva-01's awakening initiates the ritual that precedes Third Impact. Meanwhile, Rei 3, now Lilith, rejects Gendo as the one who will guide humanity's destiny. She decides to reunite with Shinji, and takes the form of Kaworu to calm him down. Yui communicates with Shinji next, and asks him what he wants. Then, the image of female breasts appears superimposed on the image of Shinji. The person in this image appears to be, given the hair type, Asuka. However, it is important to note that, unlike the hospital scene, the breasts here do not appear to have a libidinous, sexual context. The past image is of "comfort in a woman's breasts", similar to a phrase Kaji used earlier. Shinji, now, more than anything, would like to have comfort, and the person closest to him who could provide that would be Asuka.
 
With that, Instrumentality finally starts, with a childhood scene, where Shinji plays with two dolls, one of them with the voice of Asuka, while the children's mother (who is Misato) waits seated in a chair. This scene symbolizes Tokyo-3 and the figure Shinji created in his head, of a family. The two dolls would be Asuka and Rei, and the mother, Misato. This scene reinforces the image of comfort that Shinji seeks with women, especially Asuka and Misato, establishing a bond of proximity. Unfortunately, he still feels distant from them, and cannot follow them when they leave. He's alone again, and he's frustrated about it.
 
From here, the explicit exchanges between Shinji and Asuka begin, and we will separate the article according to the meetings. It is worth noting, in advance, that such encounters mimic past scenes from the series, such as the kiss between the two or the moment when Asuka learned of Kaji's death. Now, however, there are no more barriers between the characters, and they can be totally sincere, showing their tenderest feelings, as well as their most primitive.


====First exchange====
====First exchange====
[[File:Shinji sex.png|thumb|Asuka on top of a seemingly naked Shinji, reflecting their sexual tension|left|200px]]
[[File:asuka sex.png|thumb|"The sight of you makes me so irritated!"|right|200px]]
The first is as brief as it is important to understand Asuka's instinctive and superficial dislike of Shinji throughout the series.
                                                                                         
''Asuka:"The sight of you makes me so irritated!"''             
                                                                                           
''Shinji:"It's because we are similar."''                                                 


The exchange in question relates to the psychological concept of shadow (one of the terms to appear during Asuka's mind-violation in ep.22). To express it in "technical" terms, the shadow is an "unconscious aspect of the personality which the conscious ego does not identify in itself. Because one tends to reject or remain ignorant of the least desirable aspects of one's personality". Essentially, in Asuka's case, she rejects the part of herself she deems unacceptable in an attempt to maintain a positive image of herself as an independent and mature person. Shinji embodies Asuka's shadow. He represents all that Asuka fears to accept about herself: an insecure person always in need of other people's acceptance and love. As such, clashing with him on a regular basis causes Asuka to shift onto Shinji part of the hatred she feels for herself. To put it in simpler terms: she hates Shinji because she hates herself. The moment she will succeed to accept herself for how she is, she will also finally manage to truly love and accept Shinji. It should be pointed out that, here, Shinji seems to fully understand Asuka, but the awareness he shows is gone in the following interactions.
The first exchange between them starts right after the sandbox scene. Asuka, in an animal expression, expresses how irritated she is in Shinji's presence, to which he responds pointing out the similarity between them.


Visually the exchange also says a lot; Asuka's face is livid with anger and disgust with Shinji, yet they are in a very intimate situation, being naked in a bed together. And what is especially notable is the fact that Asuka is explicitly portrayed as being the dominant part in the situation: she is on top of Shinji and has him effectively pinned down. He is not able get away from her because she refuses to let him go, even in spite of the negative emotions he awakens in her. Also notable is the fact that though the two of them are shown to be together, neither of their faces are shown in the same shot. In cinematography, such a shot reverse shot technique is often used to imply a disconnect between two characters.
Asuka:"The sight of you makes me so irritated!"


====Second Exchange====
Shinji:"It's because we are similar."


[[File:I dislike you 0.png|thumb|Shinji, unable to understand others, masks his frustration and despair with a "layer" of anger, not unlike Asuka herself does.|200px]]
The scene has a character all its own, showing Shinji, apparently naked, with Asuka's hair draped over his body. The symbolism is apparently of sexual engagement. Sex, throughout the film, is what carries the greatest symbolic charge to visually express what instrumentality is all about. If we interpret sex as "the act of two bodies becoming one", instrumentality is "the act of all bodies, hearts and minds becoming one". Therefore, what Shinji and Asuka are witnessing is the joining of both their individualities, so that the barriers that separated them both no longer exist, and now they can demonstrate their true feelings and anguish, removing the masks of their feelings. The sexual act, so tensioned between them, now becomes a variation of their reality. Likewise, Shinji has visions of sex between Misato and Kaji, as Instrumentality allows him to do so. If Misato once wanted to hide this from the children, now she can't, because all barriers have been broken down. It’s notable, although, that though the two of them are shown to be together, neither of their faces are shown in the same shot. In cinematography, such a shot reverse shot technique is often used to imply a disconnect between two characters. That is, even if they are being united by instrumentality, their primitive instincts tend to separate, and generate repulsion between them.


Their second exchange tackles Shinji's inability to help and understand Asuka. It re-enacts the lead up to their kiss (from Episode 15), though inter-spliced with Misato rejecting Asuka's request to borrow some of her lavender perfume, and telling her that it is "not for kids", which seems to imply that Asuka's obsession with being seen as mature and adult, at least partially played into her motivation for instigating the kiss.
In Jungian terms, we can say that the relationship of the two characters, Shinji and Asuka, now shows itself as it always was: the one of shadows. The Shadow archetype, in Jung's theory, reflects on a part of our personality that is hidden behind our ego. <ref>https://www.thesap.org.uk/resources/articles-on-jungian-psychology-2/about-analysis-and-therapy/the-shadow/</ref> Because Asuka and Shinji are so similar, they see aspects of the shadow archetype in each other, and that would explain the context of this dialogue, where Asuka demonstrates her disgust, and Shinji rightly says it's because they're similar. Asuka sees in Shinji everything she hides, because she feels they are weaknesses. She doesn't want to show that she needs the affection of a family, or that she questions her role in the world as an Evangelion pilot. She does, expecting congratulations. The fact that Shinji overcomes her impacts her so deeply because, for her, he represented everything she discarded in order to be the best. Shinji, on the other hand, sees Asuka's anger at the world for being so chaotic and confused. But he doesn't have the determination and courage to show that aggressiveness, for fear of abandonment.


Regardless, the scene plays out as it originally did, but the kiss itself is then replaced by Asuka's accusations.
====Second exchange====


''Asuka: "It's not like you understand me at all. Don't come near me."'' 
The second exchange between them parallels the kissing scene. The situation is relived, now from a new perspective. The sexual confusion of the two characters is already established, after they follow the discovery about Misato's sexuality. The reenactment begins with Asuka expressing her anger around Shinji. The latter, on the other hand, remains defensive, claiming to be able to understand Asuka's side. She angrily denies Shinji's attempts to negotiate the situation, venting on him all the frustration she's been building up, expressing his inability to help her.


''Asuka: "You think you understand me? You think you can help me? Now that's really arrogant! You couldn't possibly understand me."''
Asuka: "It's not like you understand me at all. Don't come near me."


It essentially translates Asuka's frustration after the kiss into words, expressing the way she feels about Shinji's density. It's interesting to note that Asuka, while angry at Shinji, is not hiding her need to be understood and helped, as opposed to what she did in the real life version of the scene. It is worth adding that Shinji's feelings of sexual frustration is also emphasized here, as several rapid, but still lingering shots from his point of view focuses on Asuka's eyes, lips, cleavage, neck and shoulders, and legs, as she makes her accusations, as if to imply that the more physical side of his attraction to her acts as an additional barrier for their communication, at least for him.
Asuka: "You think you understand me? You think you can help me? Now that's really arrogant! You couldn't possibly understand me."


A hopeless Shinji then proceeds to express his exasperation at her.
Flashes of the sexual tension existing between the characters reappear. Asuka's body is shown, demonstrating Shinji's desire. The color palette, however, contrasts both. While Asuka emanates a vivid, red color, Shinji emits a depressing blue. They are completely out of sync.


''Shinji: "There's no way I could understand you. Because you don't say anything, Asuka. You never say anything, and you expect me to understand you, when you don't even talk at all? That's impossible!".''
Shinji, however, interrupts, and finally decides to express his true feelings. He expresses being unable to understand Asuka. He recalls the times when she ignored or despised him. The scene changes, and Rei/Lilith appears, asking if Shinji has ever tried to understand her. Here, it is clear that Shinji missed the clear expressions of the feelings of the people around him. He is not able to understand how the subjectivity of others is affected by his actions. As will be said later, he only thinks about himself. Shinji tries to reaffirm, but Asuka interrupts.


This is certainly the most fitting back and forth to express the main issue in their relationship: communication. Shinji believes that, if Asuka does not actively explain him everything she feels, he cannot understand her. He does not understand that people have their own insecurities and emotional needs. Rei also questions him on this:
Shinji: "There's no way I could understand you. Because you don't say anything, Asuka. You never say anything, and you expect me to understand you, when you don't even talk at all? That's impossible!".


''Rei: Ikari, did you really try to understand?''
Rei: Ikari, did you really try to understand?


Shinji sullenly insists that he did, but Asuka immediately throws it in his face, leading to...
====Third exchange====


====Third exchange====                                     
Ultimately, Asuka reminds Shinji of his fantasies with her. Obviously, she now has access to this, through Instrumentality. Upon revealing to the audience, Asuka makes the plural statement, making it explicit that Shinji has not acted sexually (i.e. masturbated) around Asuka only in the hospital situation, but in other situations as well. That is, for all this time, he had a highly repressed sexual component towards the girl. Asuka isn't shaken, and even encourages him to repeat the act, placing her body right next to his. She then says that if she can't have him in its entirety, that is, in all his components and characteristics, she doesn't want anything. Asuka here is expressing that she also has her affectionate interest in Shinji, in a manipulative way, to again demonstrate dominance towards him, who is now vulnerable.
[[File:M26 C240 flaunting-it.jpg|thumb|"Go ahead and do it, I'll be here and watch"|200px]]
The third exchange relates purely to the physical/sexual attraction that exists between the two, not to be mistaken with romantic love. Because Shinji has already been able to access Misato's memories, there is no reason to believe this is not the real Asuka since they are already inside Instrumentality.  However, here she no longer has the inhibitions that would prevent her from openly expressing herself in a real-life scenario.                                                        
                                                                                                                     
''Asuka :"Idiot! I know that I'm your jerk-off fantasy. Go ahead and do it as usual, I'll be here and watch. If you cannot be mine and mine only, I don't even want you."''


In the original Japanese, Asuka uses the idiomatic expression "I know you've been using me as a [[Geektionary#Side Dish|side dish]]". In Japanese, "using something as a side dish" is an expression for using something or someone for one's erotic fantasies, but with the underlying implication that the person using the "side dish" is too scared to actually act on their feelings. As such, Asuka might even be implying that Shinji could have had the "real thing" before, but hesitated.
Asuka: "Idiot! I know that I'm your jerk-off fantasy. Go ahead and do it as usual, I'll be here and watch. If you cannot be mine and mine only, I don't even want you.


Asuka is shown to express awareness of Shinji's attraction for her, something she had known since the end of ep.9, but likely received further confirmation of, during Instrumentality. An interest which seems, to an extent, reciprocated. That is where the lack of inhibitions comes into play; all the issues Asuka has with Shinji's personality don't seem to affect her interest in him here, as they did throughout the series. The only condition she sets is for him to be hers only, representing Asuka's possessive and jealous nature.
Apparently, Asuka demands sincerity and reciprocity from Shinji, so that both can understand each other better. Its dominant aspect comes from the fact that Shinji is still repressing his emotions and feelings in order to remain defensive. When he expressed not understanding her, he was quickly refuted by the idea that he never really tried to understand others.


Additionally, Asuka shows that she is not only aware that Shinji has masturbated to her in the hospital, but clearly implies it is in fact a habit of his. That she is still willing to accept this in a sense might indicate how much she also wants his affections, as long as they are committed. In fact, [[Resources:End of Evangelion Screenplays#Episode 25'|in an earlier EoE script]], Shinji would not masturbate in the hospital, but instead go back home after seeing her exposed breasts, and then masturbate in his room, with superimposed images of breasts (similar to what Shinji sees [[Theory and Analysis:List of Common Misconceptions# Kaworu penetrated Shinji's A.T. Field as his transition guide|when he is asked by Lilith-Rei what he wishes for just before entering Instrumentality]]) and even his face as he ejaculated.
Shinji then makes a request: be kind to him. The answer comes from the overlap of the three women in his life: Asuka, Misato and Rei. They claim to be kind. Shinji, again, has an angry outburst. He cannot understand the smiles. He makes it clear: he is not able to understand the ambiguity in the attitudes of others.


Asuka is demanding here that Shinji return her attempts at affection, she demands reciprocity, even if she also unwilling to give it back herself. However, Shinji responds...
Shinji: Then, be nice to me...


''Shinji: Then, be nice to me...''
Asuka/Misato/Rei: We are nice to you.


''Asuka/Misato/Rei: We are nice to you.''
Shinji: LIARS!! You're all just hiding behind a smile! You just want to keep things ambiguous!


''Shinji: LIARS!!  You're all just hiding behind a smile! You just want to keep things ambiguous!''
Rei: Because the truth hurts us all... Because it's very, very distressing.


Shinji, at this moment, is too unstable and insecure and reverts to thinking that Asuka, as well as Misato and Rei, should somehow just revolve around him, as he is unwilling to navigate the ambiguity, insecurity and emotional needs of others, a crucial part of human relationships. Rather, Shinji wants things to be clear-cut and easy, and for people to simply exist to serve his needs, without him having to do anything for them himself or to actually earn their affection. This is symbolized most of all with Asuka, who actively refuses to just be his "doll".
Shinji: But ambiguity only makes me insecure.


''Rei: Because the truth hurts us all... Because it's very, very distressing.''
Rei: That's just an excuse...


'''''Shinji: But ambiguity only makes me insecure.'''''
It is interesting to note that Shinji's visions of women are happy images of them naked, as if they were fulfilling his wishes. He denies their smiles, saying they are fake, but accepts their nudity as it fulfills his wishes. Shinji does not accept ambiguity in human relationships, as this does not provide answers to his desires and anxieties. He would like figures of comfort, he wanted the girls to comfort him, and not be affected by their own personal dramas. He wants to nurture his mother's absence with them, but none of them fulfills his wishes. When Misato and Rei were too far away for him to reach, he took advantage of Asuka's vulnerability to nurture this desires. As the exposed breasts in the pre-Instrumentality scene demonstrate, he sought his comfort through her. Shinji therefore rejects ambiguity as it does not serve his purpose. Realizing again his rejection, he begs for help, and again goes after Asuka.


''Rei: That's just an excuse...''
====Fourth exchange====


It is only by the end of the movie that Shinji starts to realize and accept this.
The last exchange takes shape of Misato's place again. This is a re-enactment of when Shinji tells Asuka about Kaji's death. As we know, such information is one of the elements that lead Asuka to give up on life, given the great importance that Kaji had in her life, whether as a father figure or affectionate interest. In this version of events, Shinji seeks Asuka's help, and promises to help her reciprocally. He promises to stay with her for, and therefore, to truly love her. Asuka, however, rejects him, saying that all he does is hurt her. Shinji insists, saying that she is the only one who can help him.


====Fourth exchange====
Asuka:"...Stay away from me, because all you do is hurt me."
[[File:M26 C281 iya.jpg|thumb|Asuka's final rejection.|left|200px]]
The last and longest exchange is, in a sense, opposite to the first one. Here it is Asuka to fully comprehend Shinji's nature. In the series she had shown to understand him, but never to such an extent. Taking place in a fake version of their living room (similar to ep.24), Shinji approaches Asuka in an attempt to help her only to be met by her rejection. This scene also directly parallels their kiss in [[Episode 15]]. Because Asuka interpreted Shinji's inaction not as simply passivity, insecurity or lack of experience, but instead as outright rejection, she feels clearly hurt about this, which can be heard very clearly in her tone of voice in the original Japanese, which her voice almost breaking. Rejecting Shinji's pleas here, in her mind, also count as payback.


''Asuka:"...Stay away from me, because all you do is hurt me."''  
Asuka's reaction is to make it clear that he lies, that he is afraid and that he only uses her as an escape. She says he's incapable of loving anyone, not even himself, and throws him to the ground, spilling coffee with him.


Once again, she doesn't deny her need for help, but, unlike in their second exchange, she proceeds to turn Shinji's words against him, exposing his real intentions. In truth, Shinji's attempts to help Asuka are simply a selfish way to gain her love and acceptance.  
Asuka:"You're scared of both Misato and First, and your mother and father..."


''Asuka:"You're scared of both Misato and First, and your mother and father..."''
Shinji assumes a posture of utter disbelief, and continues to beg for help, receiving one last rejection from Asuka, who is determined not to accept the boy's unilateral conditions. His reaction is to strangle her, also as a symbol of rejection, accompanied by violence. For Shinji, if no one can help him, then no one is of any use to him. "Everyone should die," as he says.


She then proceeds to accuse him of not loving anyone, not even himself. The accusation in question should not be interpreted as inability to feel but as inability to translate the feelings to meaningful acts of love. Asuka is unwilling to serve as just Shinji's escape and emotional crutch, and thinks Shinji is unable to return any affections and treat her as a human being. The scene ends with Shinji begging for someone to love him and not leave him alone, only to be met with Asuka's final rejection. Shinji snaps at this, prompting him to strangle her.
With this final rejection on Asuka's part, and Shinji's inability to understand the wishes of others, he initiates Third Impact once and for all.


===One More Final===
===One More Final===
<i>See also: [[Theory and Analysis:Final Scene in End of Evangelion]]</i>
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''See also: [[Theory and Analysis:Final Scene in End of Evangelion]]''
At the end of the movie, Instrumentality is rejected, and Shinji and Asuka are back in the real world. Seeing Asuka, with her body bandaged, Shinji expresses a certain bizarre expression, as if in a stoic state. He just starts to express some behavior after having a vision of Quantum Rei. Shinji then climbs on Asuka and starts strangling her, increasing the pressure of his fingers on her neck. Asuka visibly suffers, but her reaction is to caress his face, slowly and calmly. Immediately, Shinji releases her and his tears fall onto Asuka's face. He is sobbing, finally sketching a stronger reaction in this sequence, as she is shown with an enigmatic and stoic face. With the scene returning to show the two of them apart, Asuka utters the last sentence of the film: kimochi warui, which can be translated as “I feel sick” or “How disgusting”. The film ends.


[[File:End_of_Evangelion_Psalms_Example_Page.jpg|The final page from [[End of Evangelion Psalms]] compares Asuka and Shinji's choking scene to their kiss scene from Episode 15, by juxtaposing it with their dialogue.|thumb|left|200px]]
The scene has bizarre elements and no easy explanation, which is why we recommend reading its main article. In summary, what can be said is that she expresses feelings of confusion, and then Shinji's relief to find that he has returned to reality, and that Asuka accompanies him, not as an illusion, but as a physical person, just like him. Now, the characters have a new opportunity to discover themselves and learn to deal with others going forward, but they will also have to deal with a world of uncertainty.  


[[File:Ep22EoEPosterComparison.jpg|thumb|In [[Episode 22]], above, Shinji is physically distant from Asuka, they are divided by a physical object, and Shinji is visibly tense as he is unable to comfort a visibly crying and furious Asuka. The poster for [[End of Evangelion]] directly parallels this scene, except that this time Asuka and Shinji are close to one another, the barrier between is gone, and they seem much more relaxed and at ease with each other. Perhaps a sign of better things to come.|right|200px]]
They will also have to learn to deal with each other. Asuka's caress, her first expression of genuine affection for another, is a sign of change, and that they can come to understand and be honest with themselves.


The final sequence of the movie. Taking place at the end of Instrumentality, it shows Asuka and Shinji lying on a beach, in front of Rei's remains. There is evidence that that Asuka made the conscious decision to live as an individual and returned from Instrumentality, similarly to Shinji, and has even chosen to lay down at his side. As Shinji notices the girl, he moves towards her and begins to strangle her, without a clear reason. The generally accepted interpretation is that he was trying to determine whether she was real or if they were still experiencing Instrumentality. Asuka's reaction comes as a surprise; she caresses him, an act of acceptance meant to symbolize Asuka's growth. Instead of reacting to him with aggression or hostility as she has done many times before, she reacts with compassion, gentleness and affection. She has finally made a genuine, open effort to reach out to him. Even though it would be possible to just try to punch him or push him off her, to reject him again, she has instead chosen to accept him. In the same way her hatred for Shinji could be seen as misdirected hatred for herself, so is her kindness towards him indicative of self-acceptance. She can finally accept him for who he is, because she can accept herself. Taken aback by her caress, Shinji begins to cry.<ref name="Cardass"> [http://wiki.evageeks.org/Neon_Genesis_Evangelion:_The_Card_Game#Translations Evangelion Cardass Masters], [https://vprbvzv.dnhrkwvhhewd.hath.network/h/b8feb53ce702028b51a76e2f7c262f9265df8f24-36921-346-479-jpg/keystamp=1616895300-76e6cc5a05;fileindex=7359298;xres=org/156.jpg H-11] '' "Shinji renounced the world where all hearts had melted into one and accepted each other unconditionally. His desire... to live with 'others' -- other hearts that would sometimes reject him, even deny him. That is why the first thing he did after coming to his senses was to place his hands around Asuka's neck. To feel the existence of an 'other'. To confirm (make sure of) rejection and denial."<br>"In the sea of LCL, Shinji wished for a world with other people. He desired to meet them again, even if it meant he would be hurt and betrayed. And just as he had hoped/wanted, Asuka was present in the new world. Only Asuka was there beside him. The girl who he had hurt, and by whom he had been hurt. But even so, she was the one he had hoped/wished for...."<br>"Neither Yui, Rei nor Misato could do as a woman for Shinji. Asuka alone was the only girl on equal footing with him. So, Shinji desired/sought after Asuka. "I'm afraid of Misato and Ayanami." However, Shinji's crude affection only hurt her. In the end, he used her as an object of lust/desire to soothe/ console himself..."'' </ref><ref>According to Megumi Ogata, Shinji's voice actress, the scene itself was modeled on a experience of a female friend of Anno's. - 『井手功二のエヴァンゲリオンフォーエヴァー』(アミューズブックス)</ref><ref>Ogata actually choking Miyamura for the EoE scenes was clearly consensual, despite rumours to the contrary.<br>''MO: I'm delighted that you think I sounded natural as if I was doing ad-libs. I don't remember doing anything experimental. There was a time when I actually pushed Yuko Miyamura to the floor to strangle her during the last scene of the "Evangelion" movie in which Shinji strangles Asuka. I couldn't act very well in playing that scene. I was so agitated that I strangled her too hard, making it impossible for her to say her lines for a while. Of course, I apologized to her for doing that. I almost killed her.'' - [[Statements by Evangelion Staff#Megumi Ogata on fandom and choking Yuko Miyamura|Statements by Evangelion Staff - Megumi Ogata on fandom and choking Yuko Miyamura]]<br>
Asuka's final line, "kimochi warui", as already said, can be translated as "Disgusting". It is an expression used many times before to express shock, discomfort or disapproval - for instance, when Shinji is first immersed in LCL in Episode 1 and in a sense embraced by Yui, and when Asuka complains about sharing a bathtub, and a house with Misato and Shinji in Episode 22, as she is unwilling to belong. Because of its unclear meaning, it is hard to say whether she's referring to Shinji, herself, or something else. It might be interpreted as how strange it feels for her to finally accept another person, for example. When hostility would have been a far easier choice, she has instead chosen comprehension and compassion, she took a risk, just like Shinji did by choosing to return to reality. <ref> "It seems to be modelled after a situation that actually happened to a woman Anno knew. She was being strangled, and at the moment she thought she might be killed—not Anno-san, by the way, just in case—She wanted to caress him, and that's when he came back to reality..." Source: [https://forum.evageeks.org/post/925815/Merch-Evangelion-book-review-blog/#925815]</ref> So, both are aware of the risks they have taken, and they know they will have to deal with it in new ways. Something that goes along with the series' original ending, too. Shinji understands all of his flaws, but if he is able to love himself, he can move forward, the same for Asuka.
''CF: Did Megumi Ogata (Shinji) really strangle you while recording the voices for the End Of Evangelion to get a realistic performance?''<br>''YM: Yes, she did. I tried many times to make it sound like I was being strangled, but I couldn’t get it right. So, Megumi Ogata helped me make realistic sounds by actually strangling me. She’s nice isn’t she!?'' - [http://forum.evageeks.org/thread/11619/Miyamura-Gold-Coast-Film-Festival-2010/ Gold Coast Film Festival 2010]</ref>


The ambivalence and duality in this scene represent the fact that they are not yet completely healthy and changed, but are beginning to open themselves to this change. The movie leaves open where they will go from there, but even after all the grievous death and destruction throughout the movie, and even though they are still only starting to grow, it still gives them this hope, as long as they pursue it. They are now able to accept one another, and if they are able to grow and change, they can be happy.
The ambivalence in this scene represent the fact that they did not yet completely changed, but are beginning to open themselves to this. The movie leaves open where they will go from there, if they can grow and learn to love themselves or not, but even after all the grievous death and destruction throughout the movie, and even though they are still only starting to grow, it still gives them this hope, as long as they pursue it.
 
The fact that both characters are together at the end is a sign that everything they went through in the instrumentality had an effect on their judgments, and that mutual understanding is a possibility. For the first time in their lives, they will likely speak frankly to each other, and will be able to reflect on all that they have been through, and the said and unsaid to each other.


==Notes==
==Notes==
For more information, less accepted alternatives and objections, see [http://forum.evageeks.org/thread/3758/Shinji-and-Asuka/ Shinji and Asuka forum thread].
For more information, less accepted alternatives and objections, see [Shinji and Asuka forum thread https://forum.evageeks.org/thread/3758/Shinji-and-Asuka/].
 
Some fans believe that the Asuka in [[Episode 26']] is not real, and is instead a fake or a creation of Shinji's mind. However, there is plenty of evidence pointing out that it is indeed her soul inside Instrumentality, much like Misato and Shinji herself. See: [[Theory and Analysis:List of Common Misconceptions#The Asuka in the Hell Kitchen scene wasn't real]]


As an interesting aside, Sadamoto also suggested during the conceptualization of Eva that the relationship between Asuka and Shinji would be similar to the relationship between Jean, Nadia's love interest and eventual husband in the earlier Nadia.<ref>"An easily recognizable silhouette is also important, but I designed the characters so that their personalities could be more or less understood at a glance. For example, even the color and length of the hair expresses personality. I thought that Asuka would occupy the position of an "idol" in the Eva world, and that [Asuka and] Shinji should be just like the relationship between Nadia and Jean." -[http://web.archive.org/web/20110719224949/http://eva.onegeek.org/pipermail/evangelion/2006-November/003855.html EVA If it weren't for Sadamoto – Redux] Translation of interview with Yoshiyuki Sadamoto about designing the series.</ref>
As an interesting aside, Yoshiyuki Sadamoto, then Evangelion’s character designer, suggested during the conceptualization of Eva that the relationship between Asuka and Shinji would be similar to the relationship between Jean, Nadia's love interest and eventual husband, in Anno’s previous work, Nadia: the Secret of Blue Water.


In the expanded [[Director's Cut]] version of [[Episode 22]], Anno also took inspiration from a 1996 doujin by author Nobi Nobita called ''Bridal Veil'', [https://forum.evageeks.org/post/425333/NGE-Ep24-Script-First-and-Second-Drafts/#425333 which depicted an expanded mindrape scene itself]. Curiously, while making his own scene, Anno made it clear that Asuka's feelings were directed at Shinji, having supplanted her crush for Kaji. It also adds more lines for Asuka bemoaning Shinji and makes this context even clearer by adding additional past scenes with Asuka and Shinji, like him rescuing her in [[Episode 10]]. This isn't made clear in the doujin, wherein it seems ambiguous if she's talking about Shinji or Kaji. [https://forum.evageeks.org/thread/17938/Nobi-Nobita-Bridal-Veil-Ep-22-DC-Source/ This doujin has been translated] on Evageeks and a full scanlation is also available on its thread.
[...] I thought that Asuka would occupy the position of an "idol" in the Eva world, and that [Asuka and] Shinji should be just like the relationship between Nadia and Jean." <ref> https://web.archive.org/web/20110719224949/http://eva.onegeek.org/pipermail/evangelion/2006-November/003855.html</ref>


In contrast to the simple "favourable feelings" Shinji has with most other characters, ''[[Evangelion Chronicle]]'' describes their relationship as "complex feelings" and "love and hate."<ref>''Shinji/Asuka: Colleague-Complicated Feelings;Colleague-Love/Hate<br>Rei/Shinji: Colleague-Favorable;<br>Kaworu/Shinji: Colleague-Favorable<br>"Proud and assertive, Asuka possessed many strong qualities but lacked the ability to truly control her feelings. [...]It was only after Kaji's death and the Fifteenth Angel's psychological attack that Asuka came to realize Shinji and Kaji both occupied a similar place in her heart. This realization was quite shocking to Asuka, as she had thus far gone out of her way to dismiss and mock Shinji whenever possible.<br>Asuka's default behaviour toward Shinji emphasized mockery and distaste, though she couldn't deny also feeling some semblance of romantic interest toward him. When their synchronicity levels "officially" indicated that Shinji was superior to Asuka in some way, she started suffering a kind of psychological instability and had a hard time dealing with the love/hate she felt for him"<br>By chance, Asuka observed Rei and Shinji sharing a conversation. Asuka felt a very dark emotion welling up inside of her as she watched Shinji enjoying himself in Rei's company.<br>During Instrumentality, Asuka encountered Shinji inside his inner world and told him she didn't need anything if she couldn't have all of him. Despite the significance of this statement, Shinji's response was vague at best and he only sought a place at her side because it was a "comfortable" place to be. Hurt by the notion that she was nothing more than an escape for Shinji, Asuka outright rejected him. As a result, the Human Instrumentality Project did not reach its intended result, and any changes to the relationship between Asuka and Shinji were left unclear.<br>"Though Shinji and Asuka are both EVA pilots and living under the same roof、they are polar opposites. Despite their differences、Shinji did feel an attraction to Asuka at certain moments throughout their time together. When Shinji expressed his feelings to Asuka and sought her help during his instrumentality、she outright rejected him. Shinji and Asuka in the new world where the Human Instrumentality Project was not fulfilled Shinji had chosen a world where others existed、and for him Asuka became the first "Other".<br>"Asuka Langley Soryu Piloting EVA-02 was Asuka's way of maintaining her self-respect, and it also served to deepen her confusing love/hate for Shinji. Her repeated failures in combat against the Angels during the war had forced Asuka to face her own weaknesses, and though she did make a comeback during SEELE's forced requisition of NERV headquarters, she fell in battle against the mass-production model EVA units. Immediately after Asuka's defeat, the Human Instrumentality Project was activated, Asuka was the first "other" to exist in the new world that was created when Shinji wished for a world where others existed, and she was found lyin next to Shinji."''<br>- [https://imgur.com/a/orJwZWR The Essential Evangelion Chronicle, Side B]</ref>
In the expanded Director's Cut version of Episode 22, Anno seems to took inspiration from a 1996 doujin by author Nobi Nobita called Bridal Veil, which depicted an expanded mindrape scene itself. While making his own scene, Anno made it clear that Asuka's feelings were directed at Shinji, having supplanted her crush for Kaji. It also adds more lines for Asuka bemoaning Shinji and makes this context even clearer by adding additional past scenes with Asuka and Shinji, like him rescuing her in Episode 10. This doujin has been translated on Evageeks and a full scanlation is also available on its thread: https://forum.evageeks.org/thread/17938/Nobi-Nobita-Bridal-Veil-Ep-22-DC-Source/


Yuko Miyamura describes Asuka in 2007 as "what we now call a tsundere. It's Shinji that she's interested in as a member of the opposite sex, but she cannot really show it <ref>- Miyamura 2007 interview, FLASH EX</ref>
Yuko Miyamura describes Asuka in 2007 as "what we now call a tsundere. It's Shinji that she's interested in as a member of the opposite sex, but she cannot really show it. <ref> Miyamura 2007 interview, FLASH EX</ref>


Hideaki Anno has also written a song that seems to be about their relationship. It was fully produced, but ultimately unused in [[End of Evangelion]], in favor of [[Komm, süsser Tod]]. See: [[Everything You've Ever Dreamed]]
Hideaki Anno has written a song that, depending on the interpretation, can seems to be about Asuka and Shinji relationship. It was fully produced, but ultimately unused in End of Evangelion, in favor of Komm, süsser Tod. See: Everything You've Ever Dreamed.


==References==
==References==
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[[Category:Asuka Langley Soryu]]
[[Category:Relationships]]
[[Category:Shinji Ikari]]
[[Category:Theory and Analysis of Characters]]

Latest revision as of 01:46, 15 February 2022

Asuka Langley Soryu is only introduced in episode 8 and drastically changes the tone of the narrative. Her appearance is what the fanbase marks as the separation between the first story arc, Introduction Arc (episodes 1-6), and the second, Action Arc (8-14). ref>Episode 7, Jet Alone’s, is interpreted as a transition episode.</ref>

Her interactions with Shinji soon become a point of constant tension, implying closeness and feelings of hate, anger and jealousy. Thus, it is up to the viewer to critically analyze their motivations and explore the unspoken side of their actions.

The purpose of this article is to make an in-depth analysis of the aspects that permeate this relationship, its evolution, nuances and parallels with other characters, in order to find an answer to the questions raised by the fanbase over the years.

A Couple?

The show never presents them as some kind of "official couple". Actually, what the series usually does is use these characters to explore themes related to affection, sexuality and human interactions in general.

Shinji and Asuka deal with the world and themselves in unique ways and at times this leads to conflict, both at home and at work. Misato sees this and decides it's better for them to live together. This, in turn, leads to chaotic moments, as their relationship perfectly depicts the Hedgehog's Dilemma, which is one of the show's central pillars.

Some of their scenes together incorporate elements of romantic comedy, following the pattern established in the Action Arc of reducing the story's dramatic curve in favor of a bittersweet narrative, with Asuka assuming a position of comic relief underpinned by her “difficult personality”. However, even with this apparent toughness, her weaknesses eventually become apparent and Shinji is able to see ways approach her and build a tolerable friendship. To strengthen this "romantic comedy" vibe, the show introduces scenes in which the two of them find themselves in funny and disastrous situations.

An example would be in Episode 09. Misato has momentarily substituted Rei for Asuka in the synchro-attack training and Rei aces it the first try. After Asuka runs from the room Hikari says to Shinji: "Go after her! You made a girl cry!".

The scene has a romantic comedy content to Hikari's speech, as it implies Shinji's responsibility for Asuka's reaction, since a boy cannot disappoint a girl, even if the fault is not directly his, according to the trope.

The classmates always know first

The pause in the second image before they deny their relationship typically shows that Toji's observation is correct. They are quarreling like a married couple.


This is also supported in a more subtextual manner via clever use of cuts during important moments to establish a parallel between the Shinji and Asuka relationship and that of Misato and Kaji. In episode 11 both pairs end up in compromising positions. And, while Shinji and Asuka come to a turning a point (the kiss in Episode 15), at the very same time, Misato and Kaji are able to rekindle their relationship and enjoy brief intimacy. However, this is not the case between Shinji and Asuka. They both tend to pull away after this kiss, and Asuka starts having bigger problems with her self-confidence, which affects not only her relationship with Shinji, but all the other characters as well.

As stated earlier, Shinji and Asuka differ in their ways of dealing with situations, but they also have their counterparts in terms of thought and the kind of traumas they have, making them two sides of the same coin: equal, but opposites, and this duality is played along during their interactions of the show.

Having lost their mothers at an early age and the subsequent neglect by their fathers, both experienced very similar trauma, but developed opposite defence mechanisms, as they are too afraid of being abandoned again. Namely, while Shinji runs away from people and isolates himself in order to avoid intimacy and the risk of rejection and to always stay in his comfort zone, Asuka pushes them away from her with arrogance and abrasiveness, trying to cultivate a false image of herself that keeps her from facing reality.

Therefore, miscommunication is always present in their interactions towards each other. Shinji is unable to get closer to Asuka because he is paralyzed by inaction and his incapacity to understand other feelings and Asuka isn't able to get closer to Shinji in a proper way because she is also afraid and her way to interact with the world and avoid suffering is to always communicate in dubious or angry ways.

From this perspective, it can be said that Asuka uses Shinji as a tool to achieve her goals with Misato, Kaji, and other adults. On the other hand, she also insists on denying him as someone close enough, or even similar to her. As a defense mechanism for her own trauma, she insists on presenting herself as aloof from Shinji's issues and indifferent to his problems, becoming more hostile to him as he starts to surpass her synchronization rates and manages win crucial battles while she is failing. However, under that façade, she also seems to have genuine concern about him and also high expectations as she wants him to take initiative, and later, notice her and give her some affection, as it is shown in episode 22 and also in the movie The End of Evangelion.

Also, regarding Shinji, while he displays early obvious physical attraction to Asuka – trying to kiss her during the last night of the synchronization training in Episode 9, blushing and trying to hide an erection in the running gag of “thermal expansion” in Episode 10 – and even presents some unusual behavior of confrontation and friendly rivalry towards Asuka’s remarks and teasing, Shinji is still oblivious about how to interact with Asuka and other people, seeking help from Kaji in that matter (episode 17). However, after the events of the latter part of the show starts to happen, Shinji once again got retracted into his own shell, basically losing all of the character development that he achieved during the show in terms of interacting with other people, as his usual quiet and passive approach to those matters weren’t enough anymore, especially towards Asuka.

Two sides of the same coin

Having faced similar trauma in their childhood, Shinji and Asuka develop opposite defense mechanisms.


Finally, they are the only two characters present in the final scene of End of Evangelion, as their interactions there are emblematic of the themes of the story coming full-circle, especially throughout this movie. Interestingly, a definitive answer to the initial question is not given, being left open, accompanying the enigmatic feelings that accompany the entire memorable final sequence.

Nonetheless, the ending waves to the fact that they have gone through a process of growth and change, and that accepting each other is part of a better future. Despite its ambiguity, the ending is still very optimistic for them, reflecting feelings valid for all humanity.

In-depth analysis

Episode 8

Here begins our analysis, in the episode that introduces the character to the series. Asuka Langley Soryu, the representative of Nerv 3rd Branch, in Germany, with her Eva-02. Asuka has her first contact with the characters from the moment they arrive on the battleship that transports her. Misato brought Shinji and his two schoolmates, Kensuke Aida and Toji Suzuhara. to accompany shipping. Her first reaction is to impose herself in front of the visitors, stepping on top of Toji's flying cap and slapping all three boys for seeing her panties because of the wind. At that moment, her need to impose dominance in front of others becomes clear, and she presents negative stimuli and rejection even when the boys are not responsible for what happened.

She then sets out to find out who Third Children is, and, with the first impression being that this would be Toji, is somewhat disappointed to discover that it is Shinji, who looks quite vulnerable at first sight. Later on, the episode introduces Ryoji Kaji, Asuka's ex-guardian and for whom she shows a great admiration, if not a platonic passion. However, it is soon revealed that Kaji had a past with Misato, which embarrasses both Asuka and Shinji. It is during an exchange between the two that Asuka learns about Shinji's surprisingly high synchronization, first saying she is not impressed, she then resolves to establish initial contact with him to compare their abilities, and demonstrate her high operational and technical knowledge of the Evangelions. What should have been just a demonstration of dominance on the part of Asuka turns out to be a real battle, due to the appearance of Gaghiel. Asuka again uses the situation to test his abilities in front of Shinji, and even forces him to use his plugsuit and try to speak German. At all times, she wants to demonstrate in control of the situation, and that she has a greater potential than Shinji, because she is trained and has a more advanced Evangelion model. She reluctantly ends up accepting some of Shinji's initiatives during the battle, so that their joint effort manages to defeat the enemy. However, she never easily accepts his words, and is especially annoyed to see him try to pilot her Eva. Her delimitation of space and ownership is also part of the concepts she clings to to demarcate her strong and dominant personality. With these elements, the episode efficiently marks some of the main points of Asuka's behavior.

In the end, when the boys thought they had gotten rid of the character, it is revealed that she was enrolled in the same class as them, establishing that new fruits of this relationship would develop.

Asuka is Not Impressed
"Pleased to meet you...NOT"
You’re telling me that I lost to this puppy?
Asuka Shows off Eva-02.

Episode 9

Following her introduction, and being the first episode in the traditional setting, this chapter sets out the changes that Asuka brings to the environment with her dwelling, and the impacts it has on the relationships among the characters.

As previously revealed, Asuka now attends Shinji's school. At school, his presence is highlighted. Being a foreign and beautiful girl, she draws the attention of many boys, and is the result of the curiosity of the entire school community. Despite this, she treats everything as mere formalism or irritation, and just concentrates on establishing dominance over Shinji (greeting him in German with "Guten Morgen" and waiting for an answer in the same language) and trying to establish contact with Rei. Shinji, for on the other hand, he acts with some discomfort, feeling his space invaded by this strange presence, but still trying to be friendly, as if out of obligation.

The first fight of the episode, against the angel Israfel, turns out to be a quick loss. Asuka and Shinji are employed together, but she proceeds to charge the opponent on her own, forcing Shinji to cover her, with the sole purpose of proving to him and everyone else her superiority. Her rash decision leads them both to a defeat when the angel proves capable of duplicating itself. After the battle, Shinji is nervous, trying to counteract Asuka warning about the recklessness of her behavior, which causes an argument between them, as Asuka does not accept that Shinji has control or dominant position over the environment or the battle strategies, either because he is inexperienced, or because she is much more qualified. The two of them are interrupted by receiving an earful from Fuyutsuki. That’s when Misato decides to make them train to reach better synchronization with each other, and they start living together.

Misato's decision is based on the idea that, by living together and learning to share space, objects and daily life, the two will be able to improve their synchronicity during combat operations, and probably also learn to deal with their differences in temperament. At a certain point, both are even obliged to wear the same clothes, so that the synchronization is done as accurately as possible.

Their training, which is basically a dance game, is watched by Hikari, Toji, Kensuke and Rei, as well as Misato. The result is disastrous, and Asuka says she is unable to do so because of Shinji. Misato then asks Rei to try in place of Asuka, which results in a perfect synchronization. The situation reverses for Asuka, showing that she was the one who was out of sync. With the shock of reality, she runs away, disappointed. Hikari pities her and blames Shinji for hurting her feelings, saying that he should go after her. Talking alone with Shinji, Asuka expresses anger towards Misato and Rei, saying that she must overcome them as a matter of pride, and that Shinji doesn't understand this, even though he is a man. Shinji looks at her in confusion, but smiles when he sees her efforts. The next days, the training proceeds smoothly, with the two having seemingly succeded in finding coordination.

The evening before the fight, Asuka and Shinji are left alone at home by Misato. After hinting at them being alone for the night, Asuka, without giving Shinji the opportunity to respond, proceeds to take her futon away from the living room bringing it to Misato's room and shutting the door. She then compares said door to the "unbreakable Walls of Jericho", ordering Shinji not to enter. This scene in question will be later referenced by the mind-violation sequence in episode 22, implying that in fact she would like some comfort in the face of the anxiety of the upcoming battle. However, her inability to accept the idea of relying on others pushed her to shut herself inside Misato's room instead of seeking Shinji's company. This being said, the "Walls of Jericho" could then be a reference to Asuka needing someone to push through her barriers and truly understand her. The events of that night strengthen this argument. Asuka, sleepwalking, goes to the bathroom, and then, instead of returning to the next room, she lies down next to Shinji. Shinji follows everything awake, as he was listening to music (not wanting to wake up or get Asuka's attention, he pretends to be asleep). Shinji is stunned at her for a moment and ends up trying to kiss her, only to then be interrupted by Asuka crying and calling for her mother. He then realizes that she also keeps demons for herself.

In any case, the battle of the next day proves to be a victory, as they succeed in reaching harmony through the training. However, the timing was not perfect, with them failing to land. The two fight and exchange accusations at the end of the episode, with Asuka alluding to last night's episode but later denying it. Shinji is again irritated by Asuka's pretension to him. This moment demonstrates that their relationship has not yet been harmonized, as the internal barriers of each one bar a true and sincere approach.

Temptation

Asuka pretends to be fine, leaving Shinji alone in the living room. In truth she had been feeling lonely and in need of company.

Episode 10

This episode deals with some peculiarities of Shinji and Asuka's relationship with Misato, and their behavior in relation to everyday variables. The two kids won't be able to attend the school trip, as pilots have to be ready for emergencies. Taking note of this, Asuka expresses her disappointment and tries to get Shinji to support her. Shinji, on the other hand seems to be resigned, and to have already foreseen this situation. Asuka mokes him for his passive behavior, again expressing displeasure about his (lack of) masculinity.

As a consolation for not being able to go on the school trip, the three pilots (including Rei) go to the swimming pool. There, Asuka tries to get Shinji's attention, and starts a conversation about his homework. She manages to resolve it easily, and reveals that she just has difficulty reading the kanji. She is already graduated, although she is in the same class as Shinji.[1]. During this interaction, she even starts provoking him with her swimsuit, explaining to him the basics of thermal expansion using her breasts as an example. Shinji detours, embarrassed, and Asuka is once again frustrated by her lack of initiative. At this point, it's clear that Asuka would like to see a little more interest from Shinji. His constant passivity leaves her with no room for validation of her personality. Later, she proceeds to call for Shinji's attention again as she dives in the swimming pool. Shinji just sighs, looking rather frustrated with Asuka's constant initiatives.

Asuka then volunteers to fight Sandalphon in a volcano. For this, she needs special clothing to withstand the heat. Resistant at first, she accepts the mission, only to not let Rei pass in front of her. It's also worth noting that she's also afraid that Kaji will see her in this kind of embarrassing situation, considering that she shows interest in him as an adult role model whose involvement might make her look grown up too, but just as uncomfortable would it be to stand behind a person she judges unfit, like Rei Ayanami.

At the mission location, Asuka begins to be submerged, and Misato orders her to do so at levels critical to her well-being. At this point, it is clear that Misato also has her agenda in front of the angels, and that, as much as she may have some affection for the children, she understands their role as tools for that purpose. Asuka then begins combat as the angel, having difficulties after taking critical damage in the safety cables. She then appears to accept her end. However, Shinji, without hesitation, comes to her rescue in Eva-01, despite it not being fitted with protective equipment, and grabs Eva-02 before it can drift away. At first completely surprised at Shinji's rescue, Asuka quickly gathers herself enough to make a token attempt at keeping up appearances, quietly calling Shinji a "fool" and a "show-off", but her expression plainly shows her being grateful, smiling at his act. This moment makes it clear how Shinji would not easily accept a person's discard, even though he has mixed feelings about Asuka and her attitude in this point of the story. In any case, this was one of the incentives Asuka sought in Shinji, and it certainly pleased her that he decided to act at such a crucial moment, where her life was at risk. Similar moments will appear in the future, but the characters' actions will drastically diverge, based on their mental state or mundane and operational conditions.

Episodes 11 to 14

These episodes are focused on the more traditional structure of Monster-of-the-Week, and, because of that, they keep a slightly more linear formula, without major deviations for character development. That said, the interactions that exist between the pilots in these episodes add one or two noteworthy highlights.

On episode 11, Asuka tries to establish a leadership role over the other two pilots, but has little success with this as Rei, even being quiet and expressionless, manages to handle the situation much more successfully than her. Shinji, in this situation, stands between two girls and tries not to antagonize either of them, as he’s already being used to Asuka's bossy profile. Fortunately, they are successful in putting together a strategy in the face of the threat of the angel Matarael, which demonstrates value in Asuka's ideas, although they can often be misled by her inconvenient personality.

Episode 12 demonstrates Shinji doing well on the sync tests, which annoys Asuka deeply, as she feels like she's being left behind. Shinji, on the other hand, is embarrassed to make Asuka so angry, as he doesn't want to be a bother to anyone. A party is organized at Misato's house due to her promotion, which Kaji attends, and makes Asuka angrier even more out of jealousy.

When they go to battle, the pilots learn about the high danger of the mission, given the nature of the angel. Misato promises them to eat meat, in which Shinji and Asuka feign excitement, but later comment on how silly it was. Heading into the fight, the two talk about the reason for piloting the Evangelions, as Asuka comments on her desire to be the best. She is surprised that Shinji has already talked about it with Rei before, commenting on it. Anyway, she just comments on how simple they are in their desires. After winning the battle, everyone goes to eat meat as promised, and Shinji is deeply pleased to have been congratulated by his father, to which Asuka comments what an idiot he is. At this point, it's already noticeable how Asuka is somewhat envious of Shinji's merits and personality (and a bit of Rei as well), and so tends to downplay it or get defensive. Anyway, they already act with greater confidence among themselves and it can be said that they nurture a certain friendship.

Her behavior in the next two episodes also hints at that mood, with little comments about Shinji's growth and Rei's nature.

Episode 15

This episode changes everything. From this point on, Asuka's personality is no longer just a caricature and becomes something solid, which causes her pain and suffering, although it is also her support in dealing with others.

Asuka starts out calling Kaji, pretending to be at risk, just to get his attention. The lack of an answer leaves her disappointed, and she sees it as an indication of her estrangement and the loss of a safe haven (remembering that Kaji was her then guardian until they moved to Japan). Hikari then asks her to go on a blind date, which she agrees to. However, the date proves to be a failure and Asuka dumps the guy because she deems him "boring". She doesn't show any remorse about leaving her date alone, saying she only cares about Kaji’s reactions.

When Asuka gets back home, she finds Shinji playing the cello, in which she compliments him. Shinji, however, diminishes his own ability and says that he only keeps playing because no one asked him to stop, to which Asuka comments jokingly, almost as if in a pitying tone.

Misato calls to say that she will be late from the wedding party she was at. Shinji reacts naturally, but upon learning the fact, Asuka is very upset, especially because of the company of Kaji. She feels betrayed that he is paying more attention to his ex-girlfriend than to her. Scenes of a re-engagement between Misato and Kaji are shown, and then, as a parallel, the children are shown. As the two are waiting for Misato's return, Asuka asks Shinji to kiss, because she is bored, she says. Shinji, as usual with Asuka, tries to assume a dominant pose, as if wanting to awaken a "manhood" that she charges him with. The kiss, however, is rather chaotic, with Shinji holding his breath so as not to disturb Asuka, and thus not having any corresponding attitude in the act. Asuka looks down and runs to the bathroom, whereupon she shouts that she will never kiss again to pass the time.

The moment, however, takes on new meanings when analyzing the scenes present in the director's cut of episode 22, which revisits the moment. There, it is shown that Asuka was seeking some correspondence from Shinji for affection and support, as Kaji's figure was far away. Kaji was supposed to set up as a father figure for Asuka, but she takes advantage of his image to model herself as an adult, and tries to force some closer relationship to show herself as superior and well-developed. Kaji's constant denials in Japan make her fall into disillusionment with him, and only Shinji remains, who, despite having values and personality quite different from hers, is someone close and worthy of some admiration, as he has good results piloting the Evangelion and a justification she understands, although she denies it (acceptance by others, through Evangelion, is the reason for both, but Asuka covers it up with a layer of self-promotion, while Shinji is legitimate in saying he just wants to be accepted and praised).

The duality of the scene makes it apparent how Asuka hides many of her true feelings, and that Shinji is too passive to try to understand her any better, accepting her negative response as if it were natural, and as if it is beyond his power to change that. Asuka is unable to tell the truth for fear of rejection, and Shinji is unable to think beyond words, accepting suggestions as if they were orders and never imposing his will. The two, therefore, suffer in silence, and hurt each other by deflecting the truth that they could help each other if they were sincere.

When Kaji finally arrives home with Misato, Asuka quickly puts up a smile and tries to get him to spend some time with her, in yet another failed attempt to regain your attention. However, she smells Misato's perfume on his jacket and realizes something happened between them. Immediately letting go of him, she freezes up. Shinji, who was observing the scene, notices from Asuka's expression that something is wrong and inquires to her well being, only to have her irately blame their kiss as the cause of her pain, before she runs off to her room. Asuka is totally unable to tell the truth and express her displeasure. As seen, Asuka's behavior is cyclical. It starts with a rejection, she lies to hide the feeling, then gets rejected again, and ends with another lie.

In the Newtype Film Book Volume 5, there is the following comment about the scene: "Why does Asuka want to kiss Shinji? Even assuming she was spiteful of Kaji, one doesn't understand the real underlying motive. After the kiss, Asuka states: "I did it just to kill time." She yells, as if to make Shinji perceive it and to confirm it to herself, as if she wants to hide some embarrassment"[2].

From that moment on, the relationship of the two characters, and especially Asuka's mental state, only tends to wither away, which will result in serious consequences for both characters.

Misunderstood Intentions

Shinji believes Asuka's lie that her kiss was just to relieve boredom, but once again in Ep. 22 we find it meant a lot more.

Episode 16

This episode will show excerpts from Asuka's frustrations with Shinji's steady growth and success in missions, as well as the effect of recent events on Shinji's self-esteem. The opening scene takes place at Misato's place, where Asuka becomes irritable and Shinji has the immediate reaction of apologizing, which generates a reaction of animosity from Asuka. Misato defends Shinji's behavior, and Asuka says she's being too soft on him, and blames the fact that she's dating Kaji for it. She leaves the scene saying she is disgusted with both of them.

The sync tests again show Shinji improving on the tests, this time beating Asuka. Misato congratulates him, which makes him very happy. Asuka is shown to be quite annoyed by this fact. She tries to talk the matter over with Rei, seeking some support, but is ignored, which also frustrates her with Rei's constant indifferentism.

This constant defeats, from Kaji to Misato, from Shinji not living up to her expectations, and the synchronization test, deeply shake Asuka's ego, as she is losing the elements that supported her self-esteem. She is running out of options on how to validate herself as a useful and competent person, and feels left behind.

During the fight against Leliel, Asuka adopts a sarcastic posture, pointing out that Shinji can handle the situation well enough, as he is the leader of the tests. To her surprise, Shinji accepts the challenge, being covered in confidence. Shinji takes the lead, assuming a macho posture (exactly as Asuka charged him previously), this time weaving negative comments from Asuka and Misato, while Ritsuko is amazed at his sudden maturation. However, his reckless attitude results in him falling into the angel's trap. Shinji despairs, asking Misato for help. Asuka runs to try to rescue him, commenting that it's no use doing well in the sync results if you keep doing poorly in battles. However, as the angel progresses, she and Rei are forced to withdraw.

During the time that Shinji is absorbed, Asuka adopts an acting stance, making snide remarks about how his overconfidence only led to this situation. Such comments annoy Rei, who tries to extract from her the reason for piloting the Eva, in which she reinforces that she is only doing it for self-validation. Misato assures Asuka that she will scold Shinji when he returns.

From Shinji's perspective, we are shown the way Leliel uses it to communicate with the pilot. He enters Shinji's psyche through his memories and adopting his childlike figure. As it will become usual in the series, we are shown the train scenario. There, Shinji is invaded by thoughts about his motivations and his relationship with his father. He also has visions of Asuka reminding him of his self-deprecating thoughts, as if agreeing with this statement.

Finally, with the help of his mother, he manages to break free from Leliel's prison, being released thanks to Eva-01's Berserk. The vision of the Evangelion destroying the angel from within torments everyone watching the scene, especially Asuka, who is terrified by the fact that she is piloting such a horrifying weapon.

With Shinji's safe return, Misato hugs him in tears and relief, to which Asuka enviously comments "Weren’t you going to scold him?". At the hospital, Shinji receives Rei's visit, and as she leaves, we notice that Asuka was hiding behind the door. Shinji laughs as he realizes that she cares for him too, and is just too resistant to showing it openly.

Episodes 17 and 18

These two episodes focus on preparations for integrating the Fourth Children and the surrounding characters' reaction to the flow of information. Especially, Toji Suzuhara, the chosen child, has a lot of prominence, and certain scenes serve to extract parallels and reactions from Asuka and Shinji.

At the beginning of the episode 17, Shinji and Asuka have an argument in the classroom over the lunch, in which Toji compares them to a married couple, eliciting laughter from the class. The two are embarrassed and deny it, adding yet another romantic comedy tone to the characters' relationship.

Afterwards, Asuka takes another lunge at Kaji, trying to force herself close to him, playing the good girl. Kaji, however, doesn't pay much attention, being more concerned about his work. Asuka doesn't give up easily and clings to Kaji, irritating him. At this point, she looks at the computer screen and discovers the identity of the Fourth Children, having a reaction of surprise and fury that takes her out of the guise of a good girl.

Perhaps it's interesting to say that, in parallel to Asuka's turmoil of chaotic feelings, and Shinji's constant resentment, Toji and Hikari have a somewhat healthy approach in these two episodes, coming together through legitimate concern and sincere dialogue, showing that both they have personalities that allow them to be more assertive about their needs. This is one of the few examples of a healthy relationship that we see in the show, and it is interesting that it appears and develops after the failed attempts between Shinji and Asuka.

In episode 18, it is revealed that Asuka is avoiding Misato, out of jealousy over her approach to Kaji. Misato is well aware of this fact and shields Shinji from further information. Considering the recent events, it can be said that Asuka also notices Misato's preference for Shinji, which also distances her from the guardian.

A little later, after class, Asuka is talking to Hikari, proving to be avoiding Shinji as well. She criticizes the fact that Shinji is so dense and clueless about everything that's going on around him, showing herself to be quite affected by it, especially after they kissed. In particular, the kiss seems to have been proof to Asuka that Shinji is an idiot for complete lack of awareness of how to relate to people.

Finally at home, the two will have Kaji's company tonight, as Misato is out on account of the new Eva’s arrival. Asuka and Shinji show aloofness, Shinji tries to start a conversation, talking about the new pilot, and Asuka then realizes that Shinji doesn't know his identity yet. She thinks for a moment, and decides not to tell Shinji, in order to preserve him. Kaji then enters the room, and Asuka expresses how happy she should be that he's there tonight, but she can't feel anything. It is noticeable, therefore, that Kaji's constant withdrawal has affected Asuka, and that she also feels divided as to what to think of Shinji, both angering his limitation and preserving him from further suffering. Asuka sounds annoyed that Toji is the new pilot because she doesn't want to compete with another one of the kids, especially someone she has such an unpleasant relationship with. Part of this may also be concern given Toji's proximity to Hikari and Shinji himself. Lying down, Shinji and Kaji talk about relationships, whereupon he asks about Misato. Kaji kindly explains his point of view, in which Shinji shows frustration at not being able to understand how relationships between people work.

During the Evangelion activation operation, Bardiel contamination is revealed, leaving Toji trapped inside the Unit. The pilots are called into battle, in which Shinji is quite wary of attacking, knowing there is someone else on the other side. Asuka tries to tell the truth, but is attacked before she can. Shinji doesn't react during the entire fight, afraid to attack, then forcing Gendo to activate the Dummy Plug, which violently defeats the enemy. Shinji finds himself heartbroken at the end of the episode, realizing that he is too far away to understand his father or any other people around him. Misato tries to ask for forgiveness, but is interrupted when Shinji finally discovers the truth, and screams in despair.

Episodes 19 and 20

Shinji is enraged by the events of the previous episode, and is sedated as a security measure. At the hospital, he lies in bed next to Toji. Asuka and Rei stand outside, and Asuka comments that he probably won't recover from what happened.

Hikari is sitting next to Toji's bed and when he wakes up she shows a tsundere attitude, probably influenced by being walking with Asuka. She denies being worried about him, even though her physical presence and her confession to Asuka proves otherwise. Hikari and Toji, interestingly, play a role they both delegate to Asuka and Shinji in previous episodes: that of a couple. Whether Hikari and Toji saw Asuka and Shinji as a couple, or were they just playing with the closeness between the two, the fact is that they themselves absorbed this dynamic and became closer to each other.

Shinji decides to abandon his role as pilot, and leave Tokyo-3. During his departure, however, an angel attack begins, and he is forced to move around in search of safety. Chaotically, he watches Asuka and Rei fight and being easily defeated. He comes across Kaji in a hedonistic posture, Kaji encourages him to think about his role in the world and the things he can do. He then decides to pilot again, defeating the angel in pure fury. This, however, awakens Eva-01, and as a consequence, he is absorbed into the Unit. The next episode explores the fruits of that experience.

Episode 20 bears huge similarities to the scenes shown in the second part of EoE, Episode 26'. It is a first look of what instrumentality would be: an intrapersonal analysis, without the presence of physical bodies, where the mind has free movement between memories, desires and thoughts.

Yet, in the outside world, the characters deal with the consequences of Shinji's absorption. Asuka looks pretty confused. She is furious that Misato calls to let her know Rei is okay, and laments that she couldn't do anything against the angel. Again, frustration grows inside her at being overcome by Shinji. Her self-hatred begins to show up.

In Shinji's world, reflections on the people he knows begin to emerge. He is confused as to who his enemy really is: the angels or his father. More, he reflects on his relationship with the women in his life: Rei, Misato and Asuka. His relentless pursuit of acceptance and congratulation, and lack of pleasing answers. He has sexually suggestive visions, wondering if this is the kind of recognition he wants. He wants to become one with these women, wants to join his body and mind with them, so that perhaps he can understand and be understood. In EoE, Shinji will describe his relationship with women as chaotic due to their ambiguity. Ambiguous, however, is also the kind of recognition he seeks, being mixed between feelings of maternal affection and repressed sexuality.

His relationship with Asuka over the last few episodes is concrete proof of this: he has advances and relapses, not knowing what to do about her. He tried to kiss her, then he didn't kiss her back, he saved her, but he didn't try to build a friendship. His fights with her were based more on incompatibility with her morals than a need to impose his point of view. When he got tired, however, he stopped fighting, and resigned himself to it, but left it that way. Asuka shows aggression, jealousy and envy towards him, but he doesn't look for the reason, feels guilty and tries to disappear. When he disappears, however, they need him. Shinji doesn't understand people, and he doesn't understand his own needs. That way he can't grow.

Attempts to rescue Shinji from inside Eva-01 are flawed, as he appears to be in acceptance with the world he finds himself in. His mother finally reveals herself, and he seems to have an insight into the role he wants to play in the world, so he finally returns to the material world.

Episode 22’

An entire episode dedicated to Asuka. Here, we will watch her downfall, resulting from the whole psychic process she was going through, until reaching her exhaustion in the fight against the angel, which leaves her with deep scars.

The episode opens with a flashback of Asuka and Kaji arriving in Japan. They are lying down looking at the night sky. Asuka strikes up a conversation with a worried Kaji, anticipating the risks he will face. Kaji tries to cheer Asuka up by saying that she will meet new people in Japan, and make new relationships. Asuka then says she's not interested in boys her age. She rolls over to the body and says she only loves him. Kaji ignores the girl's initiatives, as she says she's ready to kiss and "the stuff after that". Kaji's answer is simple: "you are still a child", to which Asuka protests opening her dress, trying to show a developed body, which, in fact, she doesn't have. Flashes of scenes from later episodes are shown, followed by a torn doll in the neck, stained with drops of blood.

These opening scenes present the sexual tension that Asuka goes through. Her sexuality begins to mature and she associates this with growing up, becoming an adult. Given her role in the world, she had the need to seek a certain maturity from an early age, and she associates this with also validating herself as an adult, given the independence that this gives, overcoming the stage of total dependence of a child on the their parents. Kaji is a guardian figure for Asuka, supposed to function as her father, but she denies that role, refusing the idea of being treated like someone dependent. She really wants to be validated as an adult, to have all her suffering accepted as a condition for her rapid growth. She does not fully understand the tensions involved in the “adult world”, such as sexuality and professional and hierarchical commitments, so she refers to the next stages after kissing as "stuff after that", expressing exactly her naivete about the topic. Kaji is fully aware of the kind of affection Asuka wants to build with him, but ignores it, encouraging her to pursue interests typical of her age. After the flash of images, the decapitated doll is shown, revealing the origin of Asuka's traumas. [3]

The next flashback shows her childhood, the illness and then early death of her mother, her father's new wife, and how she resolves to close herself off to all the pain. We are then shown that she was thinking about these themes during a sync test, and that her results are dropping dramatically. Asuka's constant defeats seem to be bringing her back to bad memories, as a way of reminding her why she does what she does. However, the result is just more pressure on her shoulders, which is wearing her down.

At the station, Asuka is trying to call Kaji (who was killed in Episode 21) when she sees Shinji and Rei talking on the other side. She is upset that being trapped in Eva for a month hasn't changed Shinji's usual behavior. Perhaps, she wanted to see that he also suffers, and is affected by the burdens of the situations they face. Shinji always seems to accept everything with the same expression. Asuka cannot visualize the different way in which he handles his burden and she feels even further behind him, being she tormented by the past.

At home, Misato, Shinji and Asuka eat in silence, being mentally distant from each other. Everyone has something to deal with. The phone rings, and Asuka refuses to answer, believing it to be a call from Kaji to Misato, which she denies. Shinji decides to answer it, in which he hands the phone to Asuka, saying it’s her mother. She picks up the phone violently, and when she answers, she changes her attitude and language, speaking a friendly German. The two speak for a long time, which Shinji watches intently, seeming considerate of Asuka's well-being, and also curious about the fact that she has a mother When the call ends, Asuka confesses that the conversation was an appearance, and that she doesn't really like her stepmother. Then, she regrets having confided such personal matters to Shinji. In a moment off guard, she demonstrates confidence in him to bring up such a subject, but soon remembers that he is a rival, and pushes him away again. [4].

During the bath, Asuka is again depressed, given her menstruation. She openly expresses wanting to be away from Shinji and Misato, given the vulnerable situation in which she finds herself and how both represent an aspect that hurt her, that of rivalry (for Kaji, and as a pilot). In a tantrum, she then confides her deepest secret: she actually hates herself, and so turns others away. Misato listens attentively, with a look of concern.

The next day, Asuka’s results are bordering on minimal, causing Ritsuko to consider dismissing her. Misato argues about the menstruation, but Ritsuko says the problem goes deeper, being related to her psyche. Asuka complains in the bathroom about the fact that she is menstruating, saying that she doesn't want to have children and so she shouldn't be having this.

Then, one of the most iconic scenes in the anime happens. Asuka and Rei take the same elevator, in which they spend 50 seconds in real time not saying anything to each other. Then Rei breaks the silence, advising her to open her heart. Asuka reacts with fury and downplays Rei's words. She quickly puts Shinji at the heart of the matter, saying that no matter what they do, he will always solve their problems. She confesses her hatred for Rei and storms out after slapping Rei in the face after she says she would die for Gendo Ikari. Ironically, Asuka heed Rei's advice and then went to talk to her Eva, hoping to open her heart.

An angel attack begins, and Asuka is ordered to be Rei's backup, which she denies and goes into battle. Asuka is soon overcome by the angel and they starts the mental attack (dubbed by the fanbase as “mindrape sequence”). Asuka begs the angel not to invade her mind, and flash images swarm across the screen, demonstrating its content. Words like "tod" (death in German), "sex", "Nein" (no) appear in quick frames, showing what the angel captures from Asuka's mind at that moment. Asuka's mental infection progresses exponentially, and she suffers enormously. Misato despairs of saving her, asking her to back off, but she refuses. After some more exposure time, the angel succeeds in entering Asuka's mind. Images from her childhood are shown to her in third person, just as it was for Shinji when he was inside Leliel. She tries to fight the pressure of the memories, but her mother's devastating speeches throw her off balance. She has a confusion of her identity, hearing other people's voices in her body, and denying these images as her own. Afterwards, she has a vision of walking through a crowd, in which she asks Kaji for help. Memories tangle, and Kaji's rejection juxtaposes Shinji's image.

With Shinji in mind, Asuka's true intent at various times in the previous episodes is revealed. In the "Wall of Jericho" scene, she is frustrated and alone. The text says "you won't do anything, you won't help me!" even with memories of her being saved from the lava. Her intentions are revealed in the kissing scene. She says "you won't even hold me!"[5] while she looks sad in the bathroom when she says she's disgusted. Asuka actually wanted some correspondence from Shinji, probably strong enough to replace her need for the figure of Kaji. Shinji, however, did not fulfill this role, being too passive for her needs. Shinji's posture, in not seeming affected by the situations around him, creates a false sense of rejection towards her, when in fact he is equally confused and divided, as shown in episode 20. [6]

The angel tries to make more contact with Asuka, in which she tries to reassure her independence, saying that she will live on her own. Flashes of images of close people appear, while she denies help from other people. The angel calls her a liar and attacks her mind again. More text flashes appear as Asuka howls in pain. In the real world, she looks exhausted and says she's defiled, begging for Kaji's help. Finally, the bridge decides to use the Lance of Longinus to defeat the angel, putting Rei in charge.

Asuka is removed from Eva and placed in a containment zone, Shinji stands nearby, outside, and tries to talk to her. Asuka sharply cuts him off, and says that, of all people, she was saved by Rei, which offends her deeply. The episode ends with her enacting her hatred of everyone.

For a theoretical insight into flash scenes and their meaning through montage, see also: Theory and Analysis:Film Montage Theory in Evangelion.

Asuka constantly lying to herself
Asuka before confessing her feelings to Kaji.
Asuka sees Shinji speaking to Rei
Asuka realizes she is confiding in Shinji after her phonecall from her stepmother.


Episodes 23' and 24'

The latest events have enormously shaken the spirits and self-esteem in Misato's place. She is listening to Kaji's phone messages, looking for a meaning to move forward, Asuka left home to no longer have to face Shinji and Misato after the humiliation she suffered in the previous episode. Shinji, confused, wonders if she will come back.

Asuka took shelter at Hikari's house, and spends her days playing video games. She no longer demonstrates her former personality, being unrecognizable. She speaks softly, in an unconventional tone, and doesn't take her eyes off the screen. In bed, Asuka asks if she's being a nuisance, and says she's lost her purpose. Again, she reaffirms that she hates everything, but on top of that, she hates herself the most. Hikari says she did what she could, and Asuka starts to cry, feeling that this isn't enough.

The last battle was the ultimate deconstruction of Asuka's entire life purpose. She, who has lived her whole life seeing the Eva as a way to express herself to the world, finds herself in a situation where her efforts are not enough, and, worst of all, she was surpassed by other people. First, by Shinji, the one in whom she had pinned hopes of possible comfort, but who disappointed her with his naivete and indifference. Then by Rei, who represents everything she struggles with: a person she sees as totally passive and domesticated, who just takes orders and expresses no affection. A doll, the fruit of her hatred. The pain of being rendered useless in her purpose, as well as the feeling of being scorned by Kaji, Misato and Shinji, is too much for her to handle. The angel's attack, exposing her deepest fears and defiling her ego, was the last straw. She seeks shelter in the only person she trusts and feels reciprocated: Hikari, but tries to keep a safe distance, to avoid further injuries.

The next day, there is another angel attack. Asuka, Shinji and Rei are brought in for the operation. Gendo doesn't want Shinji to fight given Eva-01's exposure to the S² Organ. Asuka tries to activate her Eva, but it's useless. Only Rei remains to fight, being defeated. As a last resort, she sacrifices herself to prevent the angel's advance.

Rei's death shakes Shinji. Without her, he lost all the bases of normality he had managed to establish in Tokyo-3. Misato is depressed and isolated due to Kaji's death, Asuka left home, and his father used him to hurt Toji. Rei was the only one left, and now she was dead. In a short hope, he comes to know that she was alive, but is surprised by her sudden change. Ritsuko reveals the truth to her and Misato, and he loses all his support base.

These events leave Shinji mentally vulnerable, to the point where he put all his faith and hope in Kaworu, who appears in the next episode.

With everyone far away, Shinji finds himself in need of some source of comfort, which Kaworu performs well, being a kind and caring person. It's enough for Shinji to ignore all current problems, trying to alienate himself from the harsh reality his friends face. He refuses to accept the suffering of others, as he finds himself without tools to help them. As the title of episode 21 says, "he was aware that he was just a child".

At the beginning of the episode, a flashback of Asuka shows her finding her mother dead, soon after being selected to be the pilot of Eva-02. Then, another flashback, with Shinji revealing to her Kaji's death. Finally, we have a scene from the present time: Asuka is lying in a filthy bathtub in a destroyed house. She is naked and completely vulnerable, surrendered. Her clothes are folded on a chair beside her, a Japanese tradition in the face of consented death, of leaving all belongings organized. The scene says it all: Asuka has given up on living, and is awaiting death. She can't stand the shame of defeat anymore and doesn't want to be anyone's weight, not even Hikari. She got tired, the purpose of her life is over. The two flashbacks demonstrate the lack of support she has: Asuka lost her mother very early, just as her life's destiny was defined, and recently she also lost her guardian, a father figure with whom she wanted to play a adult role. And worse: she learned through Shinji, her rival and the one who belittled her feelings.

Asuka is only saved thanks to the search of NERV Intelligence, who locate and rescue her. As she is no longer usefull as a pilot, she will be replaced by Fifth Children: Kaworu Nagisa. Which, as mentioned above, creates a bond with Shinji, based on his fragility and escape from reality. Kaworu eventually reveals himself to be the last angel, and forces Shinji to kill him. Such an event destroys Shinji, making it clear that he cannot escape reality, however painful it may be. He tried to close himself off from the pain, his own and of others, and only betrayed himself.

At this point, Asuka and Shinji completely got out of sync with each other. Although they once trusted each other, now all that remains is the feelings of fear and resentment. Asuka sees Shinji as someone who has betrayed her expectations and trust, and Shinji turns away from Asuka because he doesn't know how to help her. He is actually afraid of hurting her even more. Such feelings will be evidenced in End of Evangelion.

Episodes 25 and 26

These episodes, which demonstrate the characters within Instrumentality, will serve as a psychotherapeutic component of them, reviewing the main themes that make up their personalities and behavior. For Asuka and Shinji, this is a key element in understanding the closeness and similarities between the two characters.

Shinji is tormented by Kaworu's death, he begs for help and claims he had no choice but to kill him. He had no choice, as this is his role: to defeat the angels. Even so, he doesn't feel accepted by others, he feels alone, with no one to say he did the right thing. On the contrary, he killed the one who praised him. When he asks for compliments, Asuka comes up and says he's been lying to himself. Piloting the Eva is not about pleasing others, it's about pleasing yourself, as she does. As she judges him for pursuing a false happiness, Rei appears and compares the two. Then, the focus of the scene shifts to Asuka, who is once again inside Eva-02. She remains depressed, calling Eva and herself a piece of junk, and saying it's useless to everyone. Rei, playing the same role Asuka was playing with Shinji, says she was just looking for others' approval.

Both Shinji and Asuka suffer from Separation Anxiety. According to psychology, separation anxiety is a disorder where the child is very afraid of separating from their parents, becoming anxious and refusing to go away from them. [7] In the context of the series, the parents are represented by the Evas, and how the relationship of the pilots with them is difficult, as piloting the units is the only form of validation they find. Without the Evas, both Shinji and Asuka find themselves empty on purpose, and lose their communication channels with the world. The problem is that piloting the Evas is a painful and destructive process, and they both know it well, as they point out to each other.

A little later in the episode, Asuka has memories of her stepmother, by whom she feels rejected, as she is more interested in her father than in being her new mother. She also has memories of her mother, depressed and catatonic, just before her death, and her ignoring Asuka as a daughter, treating a doll as if it were the girl. Asuka thus decided not to be passive to the wishes of others, seeking independence, and rejects the image of a "doll" given the traumatic context with her mother. Even so, it is clear that she needs the approval of others, which punctuates the contradiction in her life. She seeks validation through Eva, and wants to be understood as strong and determined, but at the same time, she needs others to be seen that way, she needs approval, just like Shinji. The only difference is the way they both express their loneliness to the world. Shinji seeks Eva to feel good about others, and thus feel good about himself. Asuka seeks Eva to feel good about herself, and thus gain the admiration of others. In both cases, there is society, and the other, involved, and their incompatibility with their inner world is the great source of frustration for both. The way she feels helpless is what generates Asuka's hatred of everything, and that dependence generates self-hatred. Finally, Asuka admits that she doesn't want to be alone, as Shinji and Misato appear and clamor not to be alone either.

All three, despite living together, were unable to build bridges with each other to feel the necessary trust to support each other. They failed to build a family bond, even though they had the opportunity to do so. Even though Misato feels affection for both of them that can be compared to that of a mother for her children, her confusion at the maelstrom of emotions that enveloped her from Kaji to Nerv affected her in such a way that it alienated her from both of them. Shinji's failure was to be afraid to open up to others, and Asuka's was to hide everything she felt and needed, from both Misato and Shinji.

Episode 26 continues the self-analysis, and Shinji and Asuka reflect their fear of existing. The lines of the two characters overlap, as it is now known that they are both more similar than they wanted to demonstrate. Instrumentality is justified by people's fear of facing pain and frustration. Insecurity permeates their hearts, and with that the way out is to become one, in a static and painless world.

Both characters agree that it is through Eva that they find their identity. Outside the Eva, they find nothing, no sustenance in their lives. And that's the justification for their separation anxiety. They confuse this emptiness with hate coming from the world, when in fact it is an internalized feeling that resonates in their hearts and feeds back in a destructive way. Again, Asuka and Shinji see each other through the past. Both feel rejected by their parents, and seek the comfort of a close figure. Both want a cure for their loneliness, but they can't deal with their own dilemmas.

Finally, Shinji understands that his view of the world is moldable through the perspectives on which he looks at life. An alternate reality is then constructed, where Asuka is a childhood friend with whom he has a similar relationship to the series, but where there is greater trust between them.

Like the series, this alternate reality copies tropes of a school comedy, and makes the proximity between the characters the target of jokes and implications about the kind of intimacy they have. When Rei emerges and catches Shinji's attention, Asuka becomes uncomfortable and irritable, which triggers an argument between the two girls.[8]

Between scenes, a frame from one of the desks appears, with the inscriptions of Asuka and Shinji's names. This is another school anime trope, called Aiai-gasa, or "Love Umbrella". One of several versions of Aiai-gasa is writing the names of two people under an umbrella, implying that they are in a loving relationship. This can be done either by bullying/ teasing or by one of those involved. There are also notes and scribbles on the table, with words like "anta-baka" and “how lewd”, imply that Asuka saw the drawing and scribbled over it in embarrassment. Alternatively, she might have written at a discreet moment and then scribbled to get the class's attention. Both are common situations in the genre, and also match the "tsundere" profile associated with Asuka. [9]

Seeing this alternate reality convinces Shinji that he can live in the real world if he comes to see things from a new perspective, but for that he needs to learn to accept himself. One of the last lines of the episode, “but I might be able to love myself”, is said by Shinji, Asuka and Rei, according to the script. Giving the conclusion that the three characters reached the end of their dilemmas, through the same answer: what they needed was to learn to deal with themselves, so they could open up to the world, and build healthy relationships. In this alternate reality, Shinji and Asuka have always been friends, and the approximations between them are treated in a light and relaxed vibe, not in the destructive and tense way that happened in reality.

This ending conveys the message of understanding among people through self-acceptance. Something fundamental for both Shinji and Asuka. End of Evangelion will also explore this message, but through a new approach, much more raw and dark, which will allow new analyzes about these two characters.

End of Evangelion

Episode 25’

The film opens with the infamous hospital scene. Shinji, desperate and lost after Kaworu's death, seeks out Asuka. He thinks she is the only one who can still give him some normalcy. Misato is completely immersed in finding out about Seele, and what he'd learned about Rei had scared him. Only Asuka is left, only she can give him some comfort. But Asuka is in induced sleep, given her recent trauma. Shinji is desperate for attention, and pulls her so that her breasts are exposed. Shinji masturbates for her, then moans. Such decision marks the character a lot, as it puts his morality in check. Knowing now that he has no one to lean on, and that his form of comfort can manifest itself in aggression and abuse, Shinji slowly begins to give up on living.

Shinji's attitude towards Asuka can be interpreted in different ways. Firstly, it is known that Shinji feels some attraction to Asuka, given previous interactions with her. The relationship between them, however, was quite troubled given the constant frustrations generated by one side or the other. Furthermore, Shinji is desperate for some comfort, and sees the moment as a way to release his tension. Immediately afterward, he feels remorse, knowing that what he did was dirty and abusive, given Asuka's condition of total vulnerability.

Shinji was never honest with Asuka about feeling some attraction to her, he masked that even when she brought it up (episode 9). The attitude at the hospital is a fulfillment of a fantasy, but it also becomes a pillar of his downfall. Asuka's reactions to Shinji's attitude and personality in general will be explored further in the second half of the film.

During the attack on Nerv, Misato and the rest of the crew mobilize to protect the children. Asuka is transferred to Eva-02 and left safely at the bottom of the lake. Shinji is missing, and Misato personally goes to get him. Shinji, as already said, has given up on living, and is catatonic amidst the chaos. Misato has to defend him all the way. Shinji starts to react when he learns from the radio that Asuka has awakened and is fighting the enemy, but he still can't force himself to act. Asuka, on the other hand, has regained consciousness after her mother's contact with her soul. She fights with vigor, like never before, and complains about Shinji's absence to help her. Apparently, by reconnecting with a sense of life, she was able to overcome Shinji's grudge, and was willing to collaborate with him.

The situation becomes tense on Nerv and it becomes clear to Misato that she won't survive. She once again tries to convince. Misato kisses him, says goodbye and then dies. Shinji remains static when he sees that Eva-01 is covered in bakelite. Asuka continues to fight the MPEs, but is eventually overcome by the creatures' power. She is cruelly murdered, having her left eye and right arm severely injured, and then being impaled. Just after Asuka's death, Eva-01 moves.[10] The unit is fully awake, with visible wings. The unit flies, scaring anyone who sees it. Shinji then has a vision of how destroyed Eva-02 is, and finally realizes what happened to Asuka. He screams in horror.

Episode 26’

In this final episode, Asuka and Shinji are at the forefront, serving as the ultimate illustration of humanity's dilemmas and fate. Almost all of its entirety takes place during Instrumentality, as well as the traditional episodes 25 and 26. Therefore, all the content shown is a symbolic interpretation of the unconscious contents of the characters, amidst the great unification of their minds and hearts through Third Impact. Their minds were joined, and thus the thoughts and memories of one character are present in another, as time and space became irrelevant, and the cognition of all beings became one. Shinji has access to Misato's memories, and Asuka has access to Shinji's thoughts, for example. The barriers of all the characters' hearts have been broken down, and now they can be honest with themselves and others once and for all. That's why this chapter is so important to Asuka and Shinji. Because, through it, we will know the true meanings that one has for the other.

First, in sequence of the events of the previous episode, Shinji is horrified to see Asuka dead and her Eva completely destroyed. He finally seems to have lost all the people he cared about, and he couldn't do anything to help her (or, better said, he couldn't feel motivated to). Eva-01's awakening initiates the ritual that precedes Third Impact. Meanwhile, Rei 3, now Lilith, rejects Gendo as the one who will guide humanity's destiny. She decides to reunite with Shinji, and takes the form of Kaworu to calm him down. Yui communicates with Shinji next, and asks him what he wants. Then, the image of female breasts appears superimposed on the image of Shinji. The person in this image appears to be, given the hair type, Asuka. However, it is important to note that, unlike the hospital scene, the breasts here do not appear to have a libidinous, sexual context. The past image is of "comfort in a woman's breasts", similar to a phrase Kaji used earlier. Shinji, now, more than anything, would like to have comfort, and the person closest to him who could provide that would be Asuka.

With that, Instrumentality finally starts, with a childhood scene, where Shinji plays with two dolls, one of them with the voice of Asuka, while the children's mother (who is Misato) waits seated in a chair. This scene symbolizes Tokyo-3 and the figure Shinji created in his head, of a family. The two dolls would be Asuka and Rei, and the mother, Misato. This scene reinforces the image of comfort that Shinji seeks with women, especially Asuka and Misato, establishing a bond of proximity. Unfortunately, he still feels distant from them, and cannot follow them when they leave. He's alone again, and he's frustrated about it.

From here, the explicit exchanges between Shinji and Asuka begin, and we will separate the article according to the meetings. It is worth noting, in advance, that such encounters mimic past scenes from the series, such as the kiss between the two or the moment when Asuka learned of Kaji's death. Now, however, there are no more barriers between the characters, and they can be totally sincere, showing their tenderest feelings, as well as their most primitive.

First exchange

The first exchange between them starts right after the sandbox scene. Asuka, in an animal expression, expresses how irritated she is in Shinji's presence, to which he responds pointing out the similarity between them.

Asuka:"The sight of you makes me so irritated!"

Shinji:"It's because we are similar."

The scene has a character all its own, showing Shinji, apparently naked, with Asuka's hair draped over his body. The symbolism is apparently of sexual engagement. Sex, throughout the film, is what carries the greatest symbolic charge to visually express what instrumentality is all about. If we interpret sex as "the act of two bodies becoming one", instrumentality is "the act of all bodies, hearts and minds becoming one". Therefore, what Shinji and Asuka are witnessing is the joining of both their individualities, so that the barriers that separated them both no longer exist, and now they can demonstrate their true feelings and anguish, removing the masks of their feelings. The sexual act, so tensioned between them, now becomes a variation of their reality. Likewise, Shinji has visions of sex between Misato and Kaji, as Instrumentality allows him to do so. If Misato once wanted to hide this from the children, now she can't, because all barriers have been broken down. It’s notable, although, that though the two of them are shown to be together, neither of their faces are shown in the same shot. In cinematography, such a shot reverse shot technique is often used to imply a disconnect between two characters. That is, even if they are being united by instrumentality, their primitive instincts tend to separate, and generate repulsion between them.

In Jungian terms, we can say that the relationship of the two characters, Shinji and Asuka, now shows itself as it always was: the one of shadows. The Shadow archetype, in Jung's theory, reflects on a part of our personality that is hidden behind our ego. [11] Because Asuka and Shinji are so similar, they see aspects of the shadow archetype in each other, and that would explain the context of this dialogue, where Asuka demonstrates her disgust, and Shinji rightly says it's because they're similar. Asuka sees in Shinji everything she hides, because she feels they are weaknesses. She doesn't want to show that she needs the affection of a family, or that she questions her role in the world as an Evangelion pilot. She does, expecting congratulations. The fact that Shinji overcomes her impacts her so deeply because, for her, he represented everything she discarded in order to be the best. Shinji, on the other hand, sees Asuka's anger at the world for being so chaotic and confused. But he doesn't have the determination and courage to show that aggressiveness, for fear of abandonment.

Second exchange

The second exchange between them parallels the kissing scene. The situation is relived, now from a new perspective. The sexual confusion of the two characters is already established, after they follow the discovery about Misato's sexuality. The reenactment begins with Asuka expressing her anger around Shinji. The latter, on the other hand, remains defensive, claiming to be able to understand Asuka's side. She angrily denies Shinji's attempts to negotiate the situation, venting on him all the frustration she's been building up, expressing his inability to help her.

Asuka: "It's not like you understand me at all. Don't come near me."

Asuka: "You think you understand me? You think you can help me? Now that's really arrogant! You couldn't possibly understand me."

Flashes of the sexual tension existing between the characters reappear. Asuka's body is shown, demonstrating Shinji's desire. The color palette, however, contrasts both. While Asuka emanates a vivid, red color, Shinji emits a depressing blue. They are completely out of sync.

Shinji, however, interrupts, and finally decides to express his true feelings. He expresses being unable to understand Asuka. He recalls the times when she ignored or despised him. The scene changes, and Rei/Lilith appears, asking if Shinji has ever tried to understand her. Here, it is clear that Shinji missed the clear expressions of the feelings of the people around him. He is not able to understand how the subjectivity of others is affected by his actions. As will be said later, he only thinks about himself. Shinji tries to reaffirm, but Asuka interrupts.

Shinji: "There's no way I could understand you. Because you don't say anything, Asuka. You never say anything, and you expect me to understand you, when you don't even talk at all? That's impossible!".

Rei: Ikari, did you really try to understand?

Third exchange

Ultimately, Asuka reminds Shinji of his fantasies with her. Obviously, she now has access to this, through Instrumentality. Upon revealing to the audience, Asuka makes the plural statement, making it explicit that Shinji has not acted sexually (i.e. masturbated) around Asuka only in the hospital situation, but in other situations as well. That is, for all this time, he had a highly repressed sexual component towards the girl. Asuka isn't shaken, and even encourages him to repeat the act, placing her body right next to his. She then says that if she can't have him in its entirety, that is, in all his components and characteristics, she doesn't want anything. Asuka here is expressing that she also has her affectionate interest in Shinji, in a manipulative way, to again demonstrate dominance towards him, who is now vulnerable.

Asuka: "Idiot! I know that I'm your jerk-off fantasy. Go ahead and do it as usual, I'll be here and watch. If you cannot be mine and mine only, I don't even want you.”

Apparently, Asuka demands sincerity and reciprocity from Shinji, so that both can understand each other better. Its dominant aspect comes from the fact that Shinji is still repressing his emotions and feelings in order to remain defensive. When he expressed not understanding her, he was quickly refuted by the idea that he never really tried to understand others.

Shinji then makes a request: be kind to him. The answer comes from the overlap of the three women in his life: Asuka, Misato and Rei. They claim to be kind. Shinji, again, has an angry outburst. He cannot understand the smiles. He makes it clear: he is not able to understand the ambiguity in the attitudes of others.

Shinji: Then, be nice to me...

Asuka/Misato/Rei: We are nice to you.

Shinji: LIARS!! You're all just hiding behind a smile! You just want to keep things ambiguous!

Rei: Because the truth hurts us all... Because it's very, very distressing.

Shinji: But ambiguity only makes me insecure.

Rei: That's just an excuse...

It is interesting to note that Shinji's visions of women are happy images of them naked, as if they were fulfilling his wishes. He denies their smiles, saying they are fake, but accepts their nudity as it fulfills his wishes. Shinji does not accept ambiguity in human relationships, as this does not provide answers to his desires and anxieties. He would like figures of comfort, he wanted the girls to comfort him, and not be affected by their own personal dramas. He wants to nurture his mother's absence with them, but none of them fulfills his wishes. When Misato and Rei were too far away for him to reach, he took advantage of Asuka's vulnerability to nurture this desires. As the exposed breasts in the pre-Instrumentality scene demonstrate, he sought his comfort through her. Shinji therefore rejects ambiguity as it does not serve his purpose. Realizing again his rejection, he begs for help, and again goes after Asuka.

Fourth exchange

The last exchange takes shape of Misato's place again. This is a re-enactment of when Shinji tells Asuka about Kaji's death. As we know, such information is one of the elements that lead Asuka to give up on life, given the great importance that Kaji had in her life, whether as a father figure or affectionate interest. In this version of events, Shinji seeks Asuka's help, and promises to help her reciprocally. He promises to stay with her for, and therefore, to truly love her. Asuka, however, rejects him, saying that all he does is hurt her. Shinji insists, saying that she is the only one who can help him.

Asuka:"...Stay away from me, because all you do is hurt me."

Asuka's reaction is to make it clear that he lies, that he is afraid and that he only uses her as an escape. She says he's incapable of loving anyone, not even himself, and throws him to the ground, spilling coffee with him.

Asuka:"You're scared of both Misato and First, and your mother and father..."

Shinji assumes a posture of utter disbelief, and continues to beg for help, receiving one last rejection from Asuka, who is determined not to accept the boy's unilateral conditions. His reaction is to strangle her, also as a symbol of rejection, accompanied by violence. For Shinji, if no one can help him, then no one is of any use to him. "Everyone should die," as he says.

With this final rejection on Asuka's part, and Shinji's inability to understand the wishes of others, he initiates Third Impact once and for all.

One More Final

See also: Theory and Analysis:Final Scene in End of Evangelion

Asuka's acceptance
Shinji surprised to be accepted by Asuka
Asuka looking at Shinji as she caresses him

At the end of the movie, Instrumentality is rejected, and Shinji and Asuka are back in the real world. Seeing Asuka, with her body bandaged, Shinji expresses a certain bizarre expression, as if in a stoic state. He just starts to express some behavior after having a vision of Quantum Rei. Shinji then climbs on Asuka and starts strangling her, increasing the pressure of his fingers on her neck. Asuka visibly suffers, but her reaction is to caress his face, slowly and calmly. Immediately, Shinji releases her and his tears fall onto Asuka's face. He is sobbing, finally sketching a stronger reaction in this sequence, as she is shown with an enigmatic and stoic face. With the scene returning to show the two of them apart, Asuka utters the last sentence of the film: kimochi warui, which can be translated as “I feel sick” or “How disgusting”. The film ends.

The scene has bizarre elements and no easy explanation, which is why we recommend reading its main article. In summary, what can be said is that she expresses feelings of confusion, and then Shinji's relief to find that he has returned to reality, and that Asuka accompanies him, not as an illusion, but as a physical person, just like him. Now, the characters have a new opportunity to discover themselves and learn to deal with others going forward, but they will also have to deal with a world of uncertainty.

They will also have to learn to deal with each other. Asuka's caress, her first expression of genuine affection for another, is a sign of change, and that they can come to understand and be honest with themselves.

Asuka's final line, "kimochi warui", as already said, can be translated as "Disgusting". It is an expression used many times before to express shock, discomfort or disapproval - for instance, when Shinji is first immersed in LCL in Episode 1 and in a sense embraced by Yui, and when Asuka complains about sharing a bathtub, and a house with Misato and Shinji in Episode 22, as she is unwilling to belong. Because of its unclear meaning, it is hard to say whether she's referring to Shinji, herself, or something else. It might be interpreted as how strange it feels for her to finally accept another person, for example. When hostility would have been a far easier choice, she has instead chosen comprehension and compassion, she took a risk, just like Shinji did by choosing to return to reality. [12] So, both are aware of the risks they have taken, and they know they will have to deal with it in new ways. Something that goes along with the series' original ending, too. Shinji understands all of his flaws, but if he is able to love himself, he can move forward, the same for Asuka.

The ambivalence in this scene represent the fact that they did not yet completely changed, but are beginning to open themselves to this. The movie leaves open where they will go from there, if they can grow and learn to love themselves or not, but even after all the grievous death and destruction throughout the movie, and even though they are still only starting to grow, it still gives them this hope, as long as they pursue it.

The fact that both characters are together at the end is a sign that everything they went through in the instrumentality had an effect on their judgments, and that mutual understanding is a possibility. For the first time in their lives, they will likely speak frankly to each other, and will be able to reflect on all that they have been through, and the said and unsaid to each other.

Notes

For more information, less accepted alternatives and objections, see [Shinji and Asuka forum thread https://forum.evageeks.org/thread/3758/Shinji-and-Asuka/].

As an interesting aside, Yoshiyuki Sadamoto, then Evangelion’s character designer, suggested during the conceptualization of Eva that the relationship between Asuka and Shinji would be similar to the relationship between Jean, Nadia's love interest and eventual husband, in Anno’s previous work, Nadia: the Secret of Blue Water.

“[...] I thought that Asuka would occupy the position of an "idol" in the Eva world, and that [Asuka and] Shinji should be just like the relationship between Nadia and Jean." [13]

In the expanded Director's Cut version of Episode 22, Anno seems to took inspiration from a 1996 doujin by author Nobi Nobita called Bridal Veil, which depicted an expanded mindrape scene itself. While making his own scene, Anno made it clear that Asuka's feelings were directed at Shinji, having supplanted her crush for Kaji. It also adds more lines for Asuka bemoaning Shinji and makes this context even clearer by adding additional past scenes with Asuka and Shinji, like him rescuing her in Episode 10. This doujin has been translated on Evageeks and a full scanlation is also available on its thread: https://forum.evageeks.org/thread/17938/Nobi-Nobita-Bridal-Veil-Ep-22-DC-Source/

Yuko Miyamura describes Asuka in 2007 as "what we now call a tsundere. It's Shinji that she's interested in as a member of the opposite sex, but she cannot really show it. [14]

Hideaki Anno has written a song that, depending on the interpretation, can seems to be about Asuka and Shinji relationship. It was fully produced, but ultimately unused in End of Evangelion, in favor of Komm, süsser Tod. See: Everything You've Ever Dreamed.

References

  1. No further explanation is given for this fact, and one can only speculate that Asuka studies in the same class as Shinji due to the fact that this one concentrates all possible Evangelions pilots. Secondarily, it is an opportunity for her to learn Japanese grammar and socialize with people of her own age.
  2. Source: [Neon Genesis Evangelion Film Book vol 5, pp. 44–45. https://e-hentai.org/g/942932/a93e1934f0/] (in chinese)
  3. During the production of Evangelion, Hideaki Anno read several psychology books to build his characters and his story, given the approach he wanted to take. That's probably when he got into psychoanalysis, which greatly influences some passages of the work, as seen in episode titles, soundtracks and in the characters' own behavior. This resorting to the doll image, for example, is a way of representing that Asuka's problems originate in her childhood, marked by recurrent frustrations from unresolved situations, given the early departure from her nuclear family. Source: [1]
  4. Evangelion Chronicle describes their relationship in the second half of the series as love/hate on Asuka's part, which indicates that she has a duality as to how she feels about him, considering all the factors that revolve around their relationship. This scene is a good example of this duality. On the one hand, she trusts him, and on the other, she pushes him away, seeing him as a rival. Source: [2]
  5. In Japanese, "to hold someone" can be undertood as a double entendre for "having sex with". In effect, Asuka may be not only lamenting that Shinji won't support her and hold her during the kiss, but that he didn't even at least give her affection through sex. This specific subject is widely discussed on the fanbase, with materials dedicated to the subject, with arguments for both sides, as seen here: [3] [4]. The sentence has other appearances throughout the series, resonating with this dubious meaning, although in more specific cases. For example, in Episode 25, during Misato's Instrumentality section, she is questioned by Ritsuko why she slept with Kaji. Misato replies that "I embraced him because I loved him.". Similarly, in Episode 24, when Ritsuko says to Gendo: "Now that I am not happy even if you hold me. You can do anything you like to my body, as you did at that time.". In the English dub, the context here is more obvious, so it's outright translated as "when you make love to me".
  6. Such observations are reinforced by the comments made available in Platinum Booklets, which are direct translations of the contents present in the re-release of Evangelion 2002, Renewal of Evangelion. The comment is as follows: " [...] And likewise, after the kiss scene from Episode Fifteen, "Lies and Silence," there is a new scene showing her looking frustrated after rinsing her mouth. And from Asuka's dialogue that overlaps these scenes, it becomes clear that she has been looking for help and love from Shinji." Source: [5]
  7. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/separation-anxiety-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20377455
  8. The artistic freedom of ADV's dubbing gave birth to Rei's infamous “are you riding his baloney poney?” phrase.
  9. For more information about the various versions of Aiai-gasa, see: https://learnjapaneseanime.com/culture-custom/people/aiai-gasa/
  10. It is interesting that Yui waited until Asuka's apparent death to move Eva 01. It’s debatable if she chose to let Asuka die or not, and if she wanted to reach Instrumentality. See: Theory and Analysis:Yui's Agenda
  11. https://www.thesap.org.uk/resources/articles-on-jungian-psychology-2/about-analysis-and-therapy/the-shadow/
  12. "It seems to be modelled after a situation that actually happened to a woman Anno knew. She was being strangled, and at the moment she thought she might be killed—not Anno-san, by the way, just in case—She wanted to caress him, and that's when he came back to reality..." Source: [6]
  13. https://web.archive.org/web/20110719224949/http://eva.onegeek.org/pipermail/evangelion/2006-November/003855.html
  14. Miyamura 2007 interview, FLASH EX