A Humble Beginning: Metatron’s Initial Presentation
When Metatron first appears in *Supernatural*, he’s presented as something of an enigma. He’s a recluse, living a simple life and hiding from the other angels. He is the scribe of God, the one who supposedly wrote down God’s word, and possesses immense knowledge about the workings of Heaven and the supernatural world. He initially portrays himself as neutral, not actively involved in the conflict between Heaven and Hell, but fascinated by the actions of the Winchesters and the events unfolding on Earth.
Initially, his interactions seem almost harmless. He has a mysterious allure, a way with words, and a knack for avoiding direct confrontation. He seems to be interested in preserving the Word of God, which is viewed as an important task. But even at this early stage, there are hints of something more complex lurking beneath the surface. The way he observes the Winchesters, the information he subtly withholds, and the casual way he speaks of celestial matters – all of these suggest a hidden agenda, a secret plan that’s slowly unfolding.
The Dark Turn: Metatron’s Descent into Villainy
The true nature of Metatron’s character begins to unfold when he reveals his ambition. This is when his manipulative tendencies, his ruthlessness, and his true goals come into stark focus. The key turning point in his arc occurs when he becomes focused on closing the Gates of Hell and his actions to ensure that it takes place.
The Angel Tablet and Manipulation
Metatron manipulates the angel tablet, a device with immense power, for his own purposes. He knows the secrets of Heaven and he uses this knowledge to gain control over it. He exploits Castiel’s desire to do what’s right, using the angel to gain access to the tablet and the power that comes with it. This manipulation is the first clear sign that Metatron’s intentions are not pure.
The Trials to Close the Gates of Hell
One could argue that Metatron’s attempts to close the Gates of Hell were a necessary evil, but the methods he employed were questionable. He pushes the Winchesters to undertake these incredibly dangerous and torturous trials, often withholding crucial information or manipulating the situation to his advantage. This highlights a disregard for human life and a willingness to sacrifice others for his personal goals.
Control Over Heaven and the Angel Civil War
Metatron’s ultimate goal, which is revealed as the story progresses, is nothing less than to seize control of Heaven. He orchestrates an angel civil war, turning angels against each other and causing immense suffering. He uses the power of the angel tablet to control the angels and enforce his rule. His ambition leads to chaos, the death of countless angels, and the destabilization of the heavenly order.
The Imprisonment of Castiel
Castiel, one of the few angels who genuinely wanted to do what was right, is imprisoned and manipulated by Metatron. Castiel is a powerful ally who could have potentially stopped Metatron and Metatron uses this opportunity to his advantage.
Evidence of a Villain: Actions and Consequences
Looking at Metatron’s actions, it’s difficult to argue that he wasn’t a villain. His methods, the devastation he causes, and the lack of empathy he displays all point to a dangerous individual.
Betrayal
Metatron consistently betrays those who trust him. He uses Castiel and the Winchesters, discarding them when they no longer serve his purposes. His ultimate betrayal is against God, who gave him his position and set him on a path. This pattern of betrayal shows a deep-seated selfishness and a willingness to use anyone for his own gain.
Manipulation
Metatron is a master manipulator. He knows how to play on people’s emotions and vulnerabilities to achieve his goals. He uses his charm and intelligence to disarm his enemies, making them believe in his cause while simultaneously working against them. He plays on their fears and insecurities.
Casualties
Metatron’s actions result in a huge number of casualties. The angel civil war he sparks leads to untold death and suffering. His actions indirectly impact the human world.
Consequences
Metatron’s actions have far-reaching consequences for both Heaven and Earth. He throws the angelic order into disarray. He creates chaos and instability in the world. His attempts to “fix” Heaven lead to more suffering than they prevent. He makes things much worse.
Nuances and Counterarguments: A Complex Character
While Metatron’s actions are undeniably villainous, it’s important to acknowledge the complexities of his character.
The Feeling of Abandonment
Metatron believes that God abandoned him and the angels in favor of humans. This sense of abandonment fuels his bitterness and his desire to rewrite the story. This could be a contributing factor to his villainy, suggesting a deeper-seated hurt driving him.
Misguided Righteousness
He believes he is acting on behalf of a higher power, seeking to create a better version of Heaven, one that is pure and unsullied by human interference. He sincerely believes he is right and that the ends justify the means. However, this misguided sense of righteousness does not excuse his actions.
The Verdict: A Villainous Scribe
Ultimately, the evidence weighs heavily in favor of Metatron being a villain. While his motivations might stem from a sense of abandonment and a desire for order, his actions are undeniably destructive, manipulative, and selfish. He uses and betrays those who trust him, causing immense suffering in pursuit of his personal ambitions. His supposed righteousness is merely a mask for his cruelty.
In Conclusion
Metatron’s journey in *Supernatural* is one of ambition, betrayal, and ultimately, villainy. While he might have started with a seemingly innocent role, his lust for power, his manipulative tactics, and the trail of devastation he leaves behind definitively mark him as a bad guy. He is a testament to how even those who seem benevolent can be driven by their own desires to cause great harm. In the end, Metatron’s story serves as a potent reminder of the corrupting nature of power and the importance of choosing the right path. His ultimate fate, after being defeated, only serves to highlight the damage he has inflicted upon others. Is Metatron a bad guy? The answer, based on his actions and motivations, is a resounding yes.
