By Alison L. Roberts

"God's in His Heaven. All's right with the world."

Kaworu, the "fifth" child.

You don't have to be especially observant to notice the many layers of religious symbolism incorporated into Evangelion. During the opening, the Tree of Life and Jacob's Ladder are prominent images. Nerv's motto, "God's in His Heaven. All's right with the world," is emblazoned on the many logos that appear throughout the agency's complex. (The quote is from Robert Browning's poem "Pippa Passes.") Pardon the cliché, but this is just the tip of the iceberg.

In addition to Judeo-Christian references, scientific concepts of evolution are prominent throughout the plot. (At risk of entering into serious "spoiler territory" for those who haven't seen the series, I won't go into much more depth here. Suffice it to say, people have written research papers on this stuff!)

Gainax, the team behind Evangelion, has remained quiet on the subject of these religious references. Pretty much leaves it all open to interpretation, doesn't it?

"Sounds like you don't get along with your dad. You sound a lot like me." — Misato

Above, top: Misato Katsuragi. Above, bottom: Shinji Ikari.

Evangelion creator Hideaki Anno has, however, been fairly vocal in his insistence that the "relationship" part of the overall story is just as, if not more important than the events that serve as its backdrop. In a written piece that is included in the first English-language compilation of the Eva manga (comic), he draws parallels between the two unlikely heroes of his story: the young pilot, Shinji and his supervisor/guardian, Misato. At first, they seem to be direct opposites of one another, but as the story progresses, we learn much more about their motivations and internal thoughts. With them, and all of Eva's other characters, first impressions aren't always what they seem to be, and people don't always say what they really mean.

Whether you like it or not, it will make you think.

In the end, how do you categorize Neon Genesis Evangelion? Adventure? Psychological drama? Mystery? Sci-fi? Epic? Try all of the above, and prepare for an engaging ride full of action, internal conflict and intrigue. The serpentine story, layered with symbolism and "clues" from episode one, almost demands multiple viewings. Don't blink. You might miss something important.