The True Identity of the First Seal Breaker in 'Supernatural'

In the compelling series Supernatural, the first seal of Lucifer's cage is a deeply significant element that marks the beginning of a series of monumental events. While it has often been attributed to Dean Winchester, a closer examination of Supernatural#39;s lore and storyline reveals that it is in fact Alastair who broke the first seal.

Understanding the Seal and its Breaking Conditions

The breaking of the first seal is described in the lore as:

“And it is written that the first seal shall be broken when a righteous man sheds blood in Hell.
As he breaks, so shall it break.” - Alastair

This condition is met when a righteous individual sheds blood in Hell. In the series, Dean Winchester, a righteous man, is held captive in Hell for 30 years before he finally breaks under torture and begins to shed blood.

The Role of Dean Winchester and Alastair

Although Dean is often considered the one who broke the first seal, the true architect of this event was Alastair. According to the canon of the show, Dean shed blood in Hell while being tormented by Alastair. Alastair tortured Dean into breaking the seal, making him the actual breaker.

The Sequence of Events

Dean is placed in Hell and held there for 30 years 3 months. It is only after Alastair's torture that Dean's torture turns to shedding blood. This action activates the seal. However, the lore in Supernatural further complicates the situation by stating that both Dean and John Winchester could have broken the seal, as they were both righteous men. However, it was Dean who first started shedding blood under Alastair's influence.

Dean's Transformation in Hell

Dean's transformation in Hell is a crucial element in the lore. Initially, the intention was for John to break the seals, but John did not succumb. This left Dean, who endured 4 months in Hell (equivalent to 40 years), as the one who ultimately broke the seal. Despite his descent into torture, Dean's strength and willpower are highlighted, emphasizing his resilience and capacity to withstand unimaginable pain.

The Tragic and Complex Nature of the Seal's Breaking

The breaking of the first seal, while a moment of triumph, is marked by significant tragedy and complexity. Despite Dean's actions, it is crucial to remember that he was subjected to extreme torment and suffering. The series portrays Dean's transformation as a tragic saga, highlighting the deep suffering and the moral complexities involved.

In conclusion, while Dean Winchester is often mistaken as the one who broke the first seal, the true identity of the breaker is Alastair. This nuanced understanding provides a deeper insight into the lore and characters of Supernatural.