Castiel, the trench coat-clad angel who would become a pivotal figure in the lives of Sam and Dean Winchester, first appears in Season 4, Episode 1, titled “Lazarus Rising.” This episode marks a dramatic shift in the series’ mythology, introducing the concept of angels and a higher power directly involved in the Winchester brothers’ destinies.
The Arrival of an Angel: A Dramatic Entrance
The episode “Lazarus Rising” sets the stage for Castiel’s arrival through a series of mysterious events following Dean Winchester’s resurrection. After being killed by Hellhounds and dragged to Hell at the end of Season 3, Dean inexplicably wakes up in his coffin, unharmed. He struggles to understand how he returned, and this confusion quickly escalates into fear when he realizes something extraordinary is happening around him.
The episode carefully builds suspense, hinting at divine intervention. Power outages, unexplained lights, and the destructive force of an unseen presence culminate in the climactic moment where Castiel reveals himself. Dean, along with Bobby, witnesses the angel descending, incinerating Pamela Barnes (a psychic friend of Bobby’s) who attempts to perceive his true form. The special effects used to depict Castiel’s appearance, particularly the burning wings and radiating light, visually establish his immense power and otherworldly nature.
Castiel’s initial dialogue further defines his character. He is stoic, powerful, and unwavering in his mission. He declares that God commanded him to raise Dean from the dead, a statement that fundamentally alters the brothers’ understanding of their purpose and the forces at play in the world. This single scene establishes Castiel as a force to be reckoned with and a significant player in the Supernatural universe.
Understanding Castiel’s Purpose and Initial Role
Castiel’s initial purpose is clear: he is a soldier of Heaven, tasked with preventing Lilith from breaking the 66 seals that would release Lucifer from his cage in Hell. He views Dean as a key asset in this fight, believing that Dean’s experiences in Hell have prepared him to stop Lilith and her demonic forces.
His interactions with Dean are initially formal and distant. He sees Dean as a tool, a weapon to be used in the war against Hell. He struggles to understand human emotions and concepts, often taking things literally, which leads to humorous and sometimes awkward situations. Despite his initial detachment, Castiel demonstrates a willingness to help Dean, offering information and protection, even when it conflicts with his orders from Heaven.
The “Lazarus Rising” episode establishes the fundamental tension that would define Castiel’s character arc throughout the series: his obedience to Heaven versus his growing connection to humanity, particularly his bond with Dean and Sam. This internal conflict becomes the driving force behind his later decisions and ultimately leads to his transformation from a loyal soldier to a flawed but ultimately heroic figure.
FAQs About Castiel and His Introduction
What specifically does Castiel tell Dean when they first meet?
Castiel tells Dean, “I’m the one who gripped you tight and raised you from Perdition.” He clarifies that he is an angel of the Lord and that God has a purpose for Dean. This is a crucial statement that defines Dean’s role and the angelic intervention in his life.
Why was Castiel specifically chosen to raise Dean from Hell?
The series doesn’t explicitly state why Castiel was chosen. However, it’s implied that Castiel was among the angels most devoted to Heaven’s mission and had the strength and authority to carry out such a powerful act. Later seasons suggest that Castiel’s eventual connection with Dean was foreseen, hinting at a divine plan beyond their initial interactions.
How did Castiel’s arrival change the dynamic between Sam and Dean?
Castiel’s arrival introduced a third, powerful party into the brothers’ lives. It complicated their relationship, especially as Sam began to keep secrets about his developing powers. Dean, initially distrustful of Castiel, eventually forms a close bond with him, sometimes to the detriment of his relationship with Sam. The introduction of angels created a new power dynamic and expanded the scope of the threats they faced.
What are some of the key symbolic elements associated with Castiel’s arrival?
The wings, the trench coat, and the gravelly voice are all iconic symbolic elements. The wings represent his angelic nature and power. The trench coat, a simple and unassuming garment, contrasts with his divine status. His voice, a distinct and powerful baritone, emphasizes his authority and otherworldliness.
Did Castiel know about Sam’s demonic abilities before he met Dean?
While not explicitly stated in “Lazarus Rising,” it’s highly likely that Castiel, as an angel of Heaven, was aware of Sam’s developing abilities and the potential threat they posed. This knowledge likely played a role in Heaven’s decision to involve Dean in stopping Lilith, as Dean’s loyalty to Sam was perceived as a potential vulnerability.
How did other characters react to Castiel’s initial appearance?
Bobby was initially skeptical and wary, as he generally distrusted anything supernatural. Pamela Barnes, attempting to perceive Castiel’s true form, was fatally burned by his angelic radiance. Their reactions underscore the danger and awe associated with angels, reinforcing the idea that they are forces beyond human comprehension.
What specific powers does Castiel demonstrate in “Lazarus Rising”?
Castiel demonstrates several key powers, including resurrection (raising Dean from the dead), teleportation (manifesting suddenly), angelic strength (incinerating Pamela), and the ability to control weather and electrical systems. These demonstrations establish him as an immensely powerful being.
How does Castiel’s appearance challenge the established lore of Supernatural up to that point?
Prior to Season 4, Supernatural focused primarily on demons, ghosts, and other earthbound supernatural entities. Castiel’s arrival introduced the concept of angels, Heaven, and a divine power actively intervening in human affairs. This significantly expanded the show’s mythology and opened up new storytelling possibilities.
Did Castiel question his orders from Heaven in “Lazarus Rising?”
Not initially. In “Lazarus Rising,” Castiel is portrayed as a devoted soldier unquestioningly following Heaven’s directives. The seeds of his future doubts and eventual rebellion are not yet evident. He sees his mission as a sacred duty and approaches it with unwavering determination.
How is Castiel different from other angels presented later in the series?
In “Lazarus Rising,” Castiel is presented as a powerful and authoritative figure, embodying the ideal of a celestial warrior. As the series progresses, viewers see the flaws and limitations of other angels, many of whom are corrupt, misguided, or simply bureaucratic. Castiel’s initial portrayal serves as a benchmark against which other angels are judged.
What is the significance of Castiel’s final scene in “Lazarus Rising”?
Castiel’s final scene involves him telling Dean, “I did what I did because I believe in you.” This marks a subtle but important shift. While he claims to be following orders, his belief in Dean hints at a deeper connection and foreshadows the personal investment he will eventually have in Dean’s fate and the fate of humanity.
How did Misha Collins, the actor who plays Castiel, get the role?
Misha Collins has shared in interviews that he originally auditioned for the role of a demon, not Castiel. He was called back and asked to read for the part of an angel, without much context about the character. His portrayal, characterized by a stoic demeanor and intense gaze, resonated with the showrunners, leading to his casting as Castiel. The actor has credited a conscious decision to maintain a slightly puzzled and observant expression as being a key component of the character’s success.