Buffy and Angel, the star-crossed lovers of Sunnydale, finally consummate their relationship in the Buffy the Vampire Slayer episode “Innocence, Part Two,” the second episode of season two. This act has devastating and far-reaching consequences, triggering Angel’s transformation into Angelus, the soulless vampire.
The Lead Up to “Innocence, Part Two”
The relationship between Buffy Summers, the Slayer, and Angel, the vampire cursed with a soul, was a cornerstone of the first and second seasons of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Their forbidden romance was fraught with peril and complicated by Angel’s own dark past. He was a vampire burdened with the weight of his former atrocities, perpetually fighting against the potential re-emergence of his monstrous self. Their connection was a fragile dance on the edge of darkness, a dance that culminated, tragically, in “Innocence, Part Two.”
The preceding episode, “Innocence, Part One,” sees Angel and Buffy taking significant steps towards a more intimate relationship. They express their love for each other openly, solidifying their commitment despite the inherent dangers. Unbeknownst to them, Drusilla and Spike are manipulating events, aiming to strip Angel of his soul and unleash Angelus upon the world. Their plan hinges on the legendary Curse of the Gypsies, which states that if Angel ever experiences a moment of perfect happiness, his soul will vanish, reverting him to his evil, sadistic persona.
The Catalyst: The Loss of Innocence
The act of consummation in “Innocence, Part Two” is not simply a physical act; it represents the culmination of their emotional journey and the shattering of their perceived innocence. For Buffy, it’s a step into adulthood, a vulnerable moment of trust and love. For Angel, it’s the fulfillment of a desire he’s fought against for centuries, a fleeting moment of unadulterated joy. Tragically, this joy is the very thing that breaks the curse and releases Angelus.
The Horror of Angelus Unleashed
The aftermath of Angel’s transformation is devastating for Buffy and the entire Scooby Gang. Angelus becomes a formidable and terrifying antagonist, his intimate knowledge of Buffy making him a uniquely cruel adversary. He preys on her vulnerabilities, manipulating her emotions and exploiting her trust. The second half of Season Two becomes a brutal exploration of grief, betrayal, and the loss of innocence. The series deftly portrays the psychological impact of this trauma on Buffy, forcing her to confront the darkness within herself and the world around her.
The narrative shift from romantic love to horrifying betrayal is a defining moment for Buffy the Vampire Slayer. It establishes the show’s willingness to explore complex and morally ambiguous themes, pushing its characters to their emotional and physical limits. The consequences of their night together ripple throughout the remainder of the series, shaping Buffy’s relationships and influencing her understanding of love and loss.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions surrounding the infamous episode “Innocence, Part Two” and its impact on the Buffy the Vampire Slayer universe:
What exactly triggers Angel’s transformation into Angelus?
The Curse of the Gypsies stipulates that if Angel experiences a moment of perfect happiness, his soul will be removed. Consummating his relationship with Buffy, a moment of profound love and connection, is considered to be that moment, triggering the curse and releasing Angelus.
Is the consummation scene explicitly shown on screen?
No, the act itself is not explicitly depicted. The episode focuses on the aftermath and the horrifying consequences of Angel’s transformation, relying on implication and suggestion to convey the intimacy and the subsequent loss.
Did David Boreanaz (Angel) know about the transformation before filming the episode?
Yes, the writers and producers informed David Boreanaz about Angel’s impending transformation into Angelus before filming “Innocence, Part Two.” He prepared for the role by studying classic villainous characters and exploring the darker aspects of Angel’s past.
How did Buffy react to Angel’s transformation?
Buffy is understandably devastated by Angel’s transformation. She experiences intense grief, anger, and a profound sense of betrayal. This event marks a significant turning point in her character development, forcing her to confront the harsh realities of her life as the Slayer.
Why couldn’t Angel have a normal relationship with Buffy?
The Curse of the Gypsies placed an insurmountable barrier in their relationship. It highlighted the inherent dangers of their love and underscored the tragedy of Angel’s existence. The curse prevented any chance of a truly happy and fulfilling life for Angel while ensuring a heartbreaking conflict for Buffy.
Was the storyline controversial at the time it aired?
Yes, the storyline was considered controversial due to its exploration of mature themes, the abrupt shift in Angel’s character, and the exploration of the darker aspects of sexuality and relationships.
How does Angelus differ from Angel?
Angel is a vampire burdened with a soul, constantly struggling against his darker impulses. Angelus, on the other hand, is a pure demon, devoid of remorse, empathy, or compassion. He is sadistic, manipulative, and revels in causing pain and destruction.
What are some of Angelus’ most heinous acts after his transformation?
Angelus commits numerous acts of cruelty, including tormenting Buffy and her friends, killing Jenny Calendar (Giles’ girlfriend), and attempting to destroy the world by awakening Acathla. His actions have a profound and lasting impact on the characters and the storyline.
How did this storyline affect the overall narrative arc of Buffy the Vampire Slayer?
The transformation of Angel into Angelus is a pivotal moment in the series, marking a significant shift in tone and introducing darker and more complex themes. It forced Buffy to confront her own limitations and to make difficult choices that would shape her destiny.
Does Buffy ever forgive Angel?
The question of forgiveness is a complex one, explored throughout both Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel. While Buffy never fully forgets the pain Angelus inflicted, she ultimately acknowledges that Angel is a separate entity. There is a degree of reconciliation, but their relationship is forever changed.
What impact did this have on the spin-off series Angel?
The events of “Innocence, Part Two” and Angel’s subsequent actions as Angelus are a recurring theme throughout the Angel spin-off series. He grapples with the consequences of his past and the darkness that lurks within him, striving to atone for his sins and protect the innocent.
Ultimately, what is the significance of the Buffy/Angel relationship and the consummation in “Innocence, Part Two?”
The Buffy/Angel relationship is a powerful exploration of forbidden love, sacrifice, and the struggle between good and evil. “Innocence, Part Two” serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of happiness and the devastating consequences of unchecked darkness. It’s a crucial turning point in the series, showcasing the show’s willingness to delve into complex themes and challenge its audience. The episode highlights the burden of responsibility that Buffy carries as the Slayer and the constant threat that looms over her life, and it solidified Buffy the Vampire Slayer as a landmark television show.