1st impact evangelion

3 min read 08-02-2025

Neon Genesis Evangelion's lore is famously dense and complex. Central to the narrative is the First Impact, a cataclysmic event that reshaped Earth and set the stage for the apocalyptic events of the series. This article delves into the mystery of the First Impact, exploring its causes, consequences, and lasting implications for the Evangelion universe. Understanding the First Impact is crucial for appreciating the show's deeper themes and intricate plot.

What Was the First Impact?

The First Impact, as depicted in Neon Genesis Evangelion, was a global catastrophe occurring approximately 2000 years before the series begins. It involved a sudden and violent annihilation of most of the Earth's population and the near-total destruction of civilization. The exact details remain shrouded in mystery, even within the narrative itself. However, various sources provide clues.

Theories Surrounding the First Impact

Several theories attempt to explain the First Impact's cause:

Angel Attack: One prevalent theory suggests that the First Impact was caused by an ancient Angel, perhaps even the progenitor of all Angels, unleashing devastating power. This aligns with the series' overarching theme of humanity's struggle against these powerful beings.
Ancient Civilization Collapse: Some interpretations indicate a connection between the First Impact and an advanced, possibly extraterrestrial civilization, whose collapse triggered the catastrophe. This hints at a rich history predating humanity's known past.
A Natural Catastrophe: While less prominent, some viewers speculate the First Impact was an unforeseen natural disaster, like a massive asteroid impact or a previously unknown geological event. This theory offers a less mystical explanation.

The Consequences of the First Impact

Regardless of its origin, the First Impact had profound and long-lasting consequences:

Mass Extinction: The First Impact resulted in the extinction of almost all of humanity, leaving only a small fraction to survive and rebuild civilization. This loss profoundly shaped the future.
Environmental Devastation: The Earth's environment was severely damaged. The oceans' state drastically changed, and large sections of the planet became uninhabitable. This cataclysm sets the stage for the bleak and perilous world of Evangelion.
The Creation of SEELE: The secretive organization SEELE, central to Evangelion's plot, emerged in response to the First Impact. They aimed to prevent a recurrence, utilizing their own methods and interpretations of events.
The Awakening of Angels: The First Impact may also have led to the awakening or arrival of the Angels, the recurring antagonists of the series. Their emergence adds further complexity to the narrative.

The Second Impact: A Different Beast

It's crucial to distinguish the First Impact from the Second Impact, another major catastrophic event in the Evangelion timeline. While both are catastrophic, the Second Impact is presented as a more immediate and localized event, occurring much closer to the series' timeline. The Second Impact involved the Antarctic ice sheet melting, flooding coastal areas, and causing immense destruction.

Understanding the First Impact's Significance

The First Impact serves as a crucial element in Evangelion's complex narrative structure. It functions as:

A Narrative Foundation: The First Impact shapes the world in which the story unfolds, explaining the existing societal structures, technological advancements, and prevailing anxieties.
A Mystery to Unravel: The ambiguity surrounding the First Impact encourages viewers to delve deeper into the series' lore and consider its various interpretations.
A Reflection on Human History: The First Impact functions as an allegory for the fragility of civilization and the potential for catastrophic events to reshape humanity's course.

Conclusion: Unraveling the Mystery

The First Impact in Neon Genesis Evangelion remains a mysterious and pivotal event. While the exact cause remains shrouded in enigma, its consequences are clearly evident throughout the series. Understanding the First Impact enhances the viewer's understanding of the complex narrative, the characters' motivations, and the broader themes of survival, humanity, and the unknown. Its mystery is as much a part of the show's appeal as the mecha battles and psychological depth.