Castiel definitively returns in Season 7, Episode 1, “Meet the New Boss,” though his reappearance is anything but triumphant, marking a dramatic shift in his character arc. The episode witnesses the immediate and chaotic fallout from his absorption of the Leviathans, setting the stage for the season’s central conflict and Castiel’s subsequent struggle for redemption.
The Explosive Return: “Meet the New Boss”
While viewers eagerly anticipated Castiel’s return after his godlike ascension at the end of Season 6, his actual reappearance in “Meet the New Boss” is a stark reminder that power corrupts. He initially appears benevolent, attempting to alleviate suffering and “correct” perceived wrongs on a global scale. However, this godlike intervention quickly becomes erratic and unsustainable, fueled by the immense power he wields and the insatiable hunger of the Leviathans residing within him.
The episode showcases Castiel’s descent as he struggles to control the ancient, predatory beings. His attempts to smite those he deems wicked are indiscriminate and often disproportionate, highlighting the dangers of absolute power. He eventually realizes the perilous situation he has created, culminating in the shocking release of the Leviathans into the water supply, marking the beginning of their reign of terror. This dramatic return establishes the core conflict of the season, shifting the focus from Castiel’s angelic struggles to the pervasive threat of the newly freed Leviathans. His initial attempts to help are ultimately overshadowed by the catastrophic consequences of his actions, forever changing his character trajectory within the series.
Understanding Castiel’s Complicated Journey in Season 7
Castiel’s role in Season 7 is complex and fragmented. He isn’t simply the powerful ally he once was. Instead, he grapples with guilt, amnesia, and the lingering influence of the Leviathans. Understanding this trajectory is crucial to appreciating the season’s overall narrative and the character’s eventual path to redemption.
Post-Leviathan Struggle: Amnesia and Recovery
Following the release of the Leviathans, Castiel experiences a period of amnesia, brought on by the strain of containing and ultimately expelling the ancient creatures. He adopts the identity of “Emmanuel,” a healer living a seemingly ordinary life. This phase is crucial as it provides a glimpse into a possible life for Castiel outside of his angelic duties and the constant battles against evil. He learns humility and compassion in a new way, though this peaceful existence is inevitably shattered by the Winchesters’ need for his help.
Aiding the Winchesters: The Price of Redemption
As his memories gradually return, Castiel rejoins the Winchesters in their fight against the Leviathans. However, he is no longer the confident and powerful angel he once was. He is burdened by guilt and the consequences of his actions. His powers are diminished, and he is hesitant to use them for fear of repeating past mistakes. This vulnerability adds a new layer to his character, making him more relatable and human. His attempts to atone for his sins often put him in dangerous situations, further highlighting his commitment to helping the Winchesters and protecting humanity. This journey towards redemption is a central theme of his arc in Season 7.
The Purgatory Connection: A Glimpse of the Future
Season 7 subtly foreshadows Castiel’s future connection to Purgatory. While not explicitly explored in depth, hints are dropped that lay the groundwork for his later immersion in the realm of monsters and souls. This foreshadowing adds depth to his arc, suggesting that his journey is far from over and that he is destined for even greater challenges and sacrifices. His interactions with Crowley and the knowledge he gains about the nature of souls and Purgatory become crucial elements in shaping his future actions and decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Castiel’s Season 7 Return
Here are some of the most common questions surrounding Castiel’s reappearance and role in Supernatural Season 7.
1. What are the Leviathans and why are they so dangerous?
The Leviathans are ancient, predatory creatures from Purgatory, predating both angels and demons. They are incredibly powerful, virtually indestructible, and can mimic human forms after consuming them. Their primary goal is to consume and control the world, viewing humans as livestock. Their immense power and cunning make them the most formidable adversaries the Winchesters had faced up to that point.
2. Why did Castiel absorb the Leviathans in the first place?
Driven by a misguided sense of righteousness and a desire to rid the world of evil, Castiel believed he could control the Leviathans. He thought his newfound godlike powers would be sufficient to contain them and direct their power towards good. He was tragically wrong, underestimating their ancient cunning and insatiable hunger.
3. How did the Leviathans escape from Castiel?
The sheer volume and power of the Leviathans overwhelmed Castiel’s vessel. They were able to exert their influence from within, corrupting his judgment and ultimately forcing him to release them into the water supply, effectively scattering them across the globe and making them exponentially harder to defeat.
4. What is Castiel’s state of mind after releasing the Leviathans?
Castiel is devastated and filled with remorse after releasing the Leviathans. He recognizes the immense damage he has caused and is burdened by guilt. This guilt is a major driving force behind his subsequent actions and his desire to redeem himself. The realization of his failure deeply affects his mental and emotional state.
5. Why does Castiel lose his memories and become “Emmanuel”?
The process of absorbing and then expelling the Leviathans takes a tremendous toll on Castiel’s vessel and his angelic essence. His mind essentially breaks under the strain, leading to amnesia and the creation of a new identity, “Emmanuel,” as a coping mechanism.
6. How do the Winchesters find Castiel when he’s “Emmanuel”?
The Winchesters, desperate for any help against the Leviathans, seek out leads on healers with extraordinary abilities. They eventually track down “Emmanuel” and recognize him as Castiel, despite his amnesia and denial. They need his angelic powers to combat the growing Leviathan threat.
7. Does Castiel ever fully regain his powers in Season 7?
Castiel’s powers remain diminished throughout much of Season 7. While he regains some of his abilities as his memories return, he is never quite as powerful as he was before absorbing the Leviathans. This weakened state reflects the lasting consequences of his actions and the trauma he endured.
8. What role does Meg play in helping Castiel in Season 7?
Meg, surprisingly, becomes an unlikely ally to Castiel. She helps him regain his memories and provides him with support as he struggles with his guilt and diminished powers. This unlikely alliance highlights the complex and often unpredictable relationships that develop within the Supernatural universe.
9. How does Season 7 set the stage for Castiel’s future storylines?
Season 7 lays the groundwork for Castiel’s later struggles with Purgatory and his eventual fall from grace. His experiences with the Leviathans and his subsequent amnesia and recovery shape his character arc and influence his decisions in future seasons. The seeds of his future conflicts are sown in this turbulent season.
10. Does Castiel die in Season 7?
While Castiel faces numerous near-death experiences throughout the season, he does not permanently die. His fate remains precarious, but he ultimately survives to fight another day, albeit with lasting scars and a renewed sense of responsibility.
11. What is the overall impact of Castiel’s return in Season 7 on the Winchesters?
Castiel’s return, despite its initially disastrous consequences, ultimately strengthens the Winchesters’ resolve and forces them to confront the complexities of their own relationships. They must navigate a changed Castiel, one who is both vulnerable and powerful, adding a new dynamic to their already complicated dynamic.
12. Is Castiel’s arc in Season 7 considered a low point or a turning point for his character?
Castiel’s arc in Season 7 is undoubtedly a turning point. While it represents a significant low point in terms of his power and mental state, it also serves as a crucial catalyst for his personal growth and eventual redemption. This season marks a shift from the powerful, almost detached angel to a more vulnerable and relatable character grappling with his own mistakes and striving to make amends. It adds significant depth and complexity to his long-running story.