Angeal Final Fantasy VII: A Deep Dive into the SOLDIER’s Legacy

Angeal Hewley, a name synonymous with honor, duty, and sacrifice within the Final Fantasy VII universe. As a 1st Class SOLDIER, he served as a mentor and friend to both Zack Fair and Sephiroth, leaving an indelible mark on their lives and the events that shaped the world. This article delves into the character of Angeal Final Fantasy VII, exploring his origins, motivations, and ultimate fate, while examining his lasting impact on the narrative.

The Origins of a SOLDIER Hero

Angeal Final Fantasy VII hails from the rural village of Banora, known for its production of banora white apples and, more secretly, the Genesis clones created using Angeal’s cells. His mother, Gillian Hewley, was involved in Project G, Shinra’s attempt to create enhanced soldiers. This project, similar to Project S which created Sephiroth, resulted in Angeal Final Fantasy VII possessing superhuman strength, agility, and the ability to manifest a wing. Unlike Sephiroth, Angeal Final Fantasy VII retained his humanity and sense of morality, making him a truly noble figure.

Driven by a desire to protect others, Angeal Final Fantasy VII joined SOLDIER, rapidly climbing the ranks to become a 1st Class operative. He became known for his unwavering loyalty to Shinra and his commitment to his comrades. His signature weapon was the Buster Sword, which he inherited from his father and passed down to Zack Fair.

Mentorship and Friendship

Angeal Final Fantasy VII’s influence on Zack Fair is undeniable. He took Zack under his wing, teaching him the values of honor, duty, and the importance of protecting those you care about. Their bond was more than just a mentor-student relationship; they were true friends who trusted and respected each other. Angeal Final Fantasy VII often reminded Zack to cherish his dreams and never give up hope, lessons that would prove crucial in Zack’s own journey.

His relationship with Sephiroth, while less intimate than his bond with Zack, was also significant. Angeal Final Fantasy VII respected Sephiroth’s power and skill, but also recognized his growing isolation and detachment from humanity. He attempted to guide Sephiroth, but ultimately, Sephiroth’s descent into darkness proved unstoppable.

The Price of Loyalty

As Angeal Final Fantasy VII rose through the ranks of SOLDIER, he began to question Shinra’s motives and the true nature of their operations. He discovered the truth about Project G and his own origins, leading to a profound moral crisis. Torn between his loyalty to Shinra and his conscience, Angeal Final Fantasy VII struggled to reconcile his duty with his growing disillusionment. This internal conflict forms a core part of his character arc.

The revelation of his own genetic modifications and the creation of Genesis clones deeply disturbed Angeal Final Fantasy VII. He saw the suffering caused by Shinra’s experiments and realized the devastating consequences of their pursuit of power. This realization ultimately led him to betray Shinra and fight against them, becoming a fugitive and a target.

The Wingless Angel and the Buster Sword

Angeal Final Fantasy VII’s defining physical characteristic, besides his SOLDIER uniform, is his ability to manifest a single white wing. This wing is a result of his genetic modification and sets him apart from other SOLDIER operatives. The wing represents his connection to his past and the burden of his unique heritage. It also symbolizes his struggle between his human side and his genetically enhanced abilities.

The Buster Sword, a massive and iconic weapon, is intrinsically linked to Angeal Final Fantasy VII. He inherited it from his father, a former SOLDIER, and wielded it with unmatched skill and precision. The sword represents his commitment to protecting others and his unwavering sense of justice. Before his demise, Angeal Final Fantasy VII passes the Buster Sword on to Zack, entrusting him with his legacy and the responsibility of carrying on his ideals.

The Final Stand and Sacrifice

Ultimately, Angeal Final Fantasy VII chooses to confront Zack in a final battle, forcing Zack to kill him. This act of sacrifice allows Angeal Final Fantasy VII to pass on his powers and his ideals to Zack, ensuring that his legacy will live on. His death is a poignant moment that highlights the tragic consequences of Shinra’s actions and the heavy burden of being a SOLDIER.

Angeal Final Fantasy VII’s final moments are filled with regret and a sense of closure. He accepts his fate and entrusts Zack with the Buster Sword, knowing that Zack will use it to protect those he cares about. His sacrifice is a testament to his unwavering commitment to his friends and his desire to make amends for his past actions. This sacrifice solidifies his position as a tragic hero within the Final Fantasy VII narrative.

Angeal’s Lasting Impact on Final Fantasy VII

Even in death, Angeal Final Fantasy VII’s influence permeates the Final Fantasy VII narrative. His teachings and values continue to guide Zack, shaping his actions and decisions. The Buster Sword, now wielded by Zack and later Cloud, serves as a constant reminder of Angeal Final Fantasy VII’s legacy and the ideals he stood for. His story adds depth and complexity to the Final Fantasy VII universe, highlighting the moral ambiguities of war and the importance of personal responsibility.

His character is a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition and the importance of maintaining one’s humanity in the face of adversity. Angeal Final Fantasy VII’s struggle with his own genetic modification and his subsequent rejection of Shinra’s ideology serve as a powerful message about the need to question authority and fight for what is right, even when it comes at a great personal cost. [See also: Zack Fair: A Hero’s Journey] [See also: Sephiroth: The One-Winged Angel]

The Character of Angeal Hewley

Angeal Final Fantasy VII is more than just a SOLDIER; he is a complex and multifaceted character with a deep sense of morality and a unwavering commitment to his friends. His struggles with his own identity and his ultimate sacrifice make him one of the most compelling and memorable characters in the Final Fantasy VII universe. His legacy continues to inspire players and fans alike, reminding us of the importance of honor, duty, and the power of friendship.

He represents the best qualities of humanity, even in the face of extraordinary circumstances. Angeal Final Fantasy VII’s compassion, loyalty, and selflessness make him a true hero, one whose story will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come. His is a story of a good man caught in a bad situation, trying to do what is right.

In conclusion, Angeal Final Fantasy VII is a vital character in the Final Fantasy VII mythos. His influence on Zack, his possession of the Buster Sword, and his tragic backstory contribute significantly to the overall narrative. He is more than just a SOLDIER; he is a friend, mentor, and ultimately, a sacrifice for the greater good. His legacy lives on through Zack and the Buster Sword, forever etched in the hearts of fans.