Angeal Hewley: The Legacy of a SOLDIER in Final Fantasy VII

Angeal Hewley is a pivotal character in the Final Fantasy VII universe, particularly prominent in Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII. He serves as a mentor and friend to Zack Fair, significantly influencing Zack’s development and the overall narrative. Understanding Angeal’s role, motivations, and ultimate fate is crucial for a deeper appreciation of the Final Fantasy VII saga. This article delves into the intricacies of Angeal’s character, exploring his background, his connection to SOLDIER, and his impact on the events that unfold.

The Origins of a Hero: Angeal’s Backstory

Angeal Hewley hails from the rural village of Modeoheim. His mother, Gillian Hewley, played a critical role in his upbringing. Angeal’s father, though never explicitly mentioned, is implied to be connected to Shinra Electric Power Company’s research, a connection that would later have profound consequences. Growing up in Modeoheim, Angeal possessed a strong sense of justice and a deep-seated desire to protect others. This inherent goodness, coupled with his exceptional combat abilities, made him a prime candidate for SOLDIER.

Angeal’s childhood was marked by a simple life, but beneath the surface lay a complex web of genetic engineering and corporate secrets. The seeds of his later conflict were sown early, unbeknownst to the young Angeal.

Ascension to SOLDIER: Honor and Duty

Angeal’s exceptional skills earned him a place in SOLDIER, Shinra’s elite military unit. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a 1st Class SOLDIER, a testament to his strength and dedication. Angeal’s defining characteristic was his unwavering sense of honor and duty. He believed in protecting the innocent and upholding the values of SOLDIER. This moral compass often put him at odds with the darker aspects of Shinra’s operations.

As a 1st Class SOLDIER, Angeal wielded the Buster Sword, a powerful weapon passed down through generations. The Buster Sword became a symbol of his commitment to his ideals and his responsibility to protect those around him. It’s also a physical representation of the burden he carries, knowing its history and the expectations that come with it.

Mentorship and Friendship: Angeal and Zack Fair

Angeal’s most significant relationship is with Zack Fair. He serves as Zack’s mentor, guiding him through the trials and tribulations of SOLDIER life. Angeal instills in Zack the importance of honor, duty, and protecting one’s dreams. Their bond is one of mutual respect and genuine affection. Angeal sees potential in Zack, recognizing his inherent goodness and unwavering optimism. He takes Zack under his wing, teaching him not only combat skills but also valuable life lessons.

The mentorship between Angeal and Zack is a central theme in Crisis Core. Angeal teaches Zack about the importance of dreams and how to protect them. He emphasizes the responsibility that comes with being a SOLDIER and the need to uphold justice. This mentorship shapes Zack into the hero he ultimately becomes.

The Dark Truth: Angeal’s Genetic Origins

The idyllic facade of Angeal’s life begins to crumble when he uncovers the truth about his genetic origins. He learns that he is a product of Shinra’s experiments, a result of Jenova cells being implanted into his mother, Gillian. This revelation shatters his perception of himself and his place in the world. The knowledge that he is not entirely human and that his existence is tied to Shinra’s unethical research deeply troubles him.

This discovery leads Angeal down a path of self-discovery and internal conflict. He grapples with the implications of his genetic makeup and questions his loyalty to Shinra. The truth about his origins forces him to confront the dark side of the corporation he once served so faithfully.

The Descent: Angeal’s Transformation

Consumed by the truth of his origins, Angeal begins to transform into a monster. The Jenova cells within him react to his emotional turmoil, causing him to mutate. He gains the ability to create Angeal Penance copies of himself, monstrous versions driven by instinct and devoid of reason. This transformation is a physical manifestation of his inner struggle and the corruption of Shinra’s experiments.

Angeal‘s transformation is not merely a physical one; it is also a moral descent. He struggles to maintain his sense of self and his commitment to his ideals. The weight of his genetic burden and the betrayal by Shinra push him to the brink. He becomes increasingly isolated and withdrawn, unable to reconcile his past with his present reality.

The Final Battle: Angeal’s Sacrifice

The climax of Angeal‘s story arrives in a final confrontation with Zack. Unable to control his transformation and unwilling to become a monster, Angeal chooses to end his own life. He entrusts the Buster Sword to Zack, passing on his legacy and his dreams. This act of self-sacrifice is a testament to his enduring honor and his desire to protect Zack from the same fate.

The battle between Angeal and Zack is a poignant and emotional moment. It represents the culmination of their mentorship and the tragic consequences of Shinra’s experiments. Angeal‘s sacrifice is a pivotal moment in Zack’s journey, solidifying his resolve to fight for what is right and to honor Angeal‘s memory.

Angeal’s Legacy: A Lasting Impact

Despite his tragic end, Angeal‘s legacy lives on through Zack. Zack carries the Buster Sword as a symbol of Angeal‘s ideals and his commitment to protecting others. Angeal‘s teachings and his example shape Zack into the hero he becomes, influencing his actions and his decisions. Angeal‘s influence extends beyond Zack, impacting the lives of those he encountered and leaving a lasting mark on the world of Final Fantasy VII.

Angeal‘s story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition and the importance of ethical considerations. His character explores themes of identity, duty, and the consequences of genetic manipulation. He reminds us that even in the face of overwhelming adversity, it is possible to maintain one’s honor and to choose one’s own destiny.

Angeal in Final Fantasy VII Remake

While Angeal doesn’t directly appear in Final Fantasy VII Remake, his presence is felt through subtle references and allusions. The Buster Sword, carried by Cloud, serves as a constant reminder of Angeal‘s legacy. As the Remake project continues, there is speculation about whether Angeal will play a more significant role in future installments, perhaps through flashbacks or expanded storylines. The potential for exploring Angeal‘s character in greater depth within the Remake universe is an exciting prospect for fans.

The Enduring Appeal of Angeal Hewley

Angeal Hewley remains a beloved character in the Final Fantasy VII fandom. His complex personality, his tragic backstory, and his unwavering sense of honor resonate with players. He represents the best of SOLDIER, embodying the ideals of courage, compassion, and self-sacrifice. Angeal‘s story continues to captivate audiences, reminding us of the power of friendship, the importance of ethical choices, and the enduring legacy of a true hero. The character of Angeal is a testament to the storytelling prowess of Square Enix and the enduring appeal of the Final Fantasy VII universe.

His influence on Zack Fair is undeniable, shaping the hero that Zack becomes and influencing the events of both Crisis Core and Final Fantasy VII. The echoes of Angeal’s teachings and sacrifice reverberate throughout the narrative, solidifying his place as a key figure in the broader Final Fantasy VII lore.

[See also: Zack Fair: A Tragic Hero’s Journey]

[See also: Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII – A Deep Dive]

[See also: Shinra Electric Power Company: The Corrupting Influence]