The true identity of the character known as Android 17 has been a subject of discussion among fans of the Dragon Ball series. The human from which he was created was designated Lapis before undergoing Dr. Gero’s transformation into a cyborg. This pre-cyborg designation is crucial for understanding the character’s origins.
Knowing this element of the narrative allows for a deeper appreciation of Android 17’s character arc, providing context to his initial rebellious behavior and eventual redemption. The revelation of his human origins underscores the tragic nature of Dr. Gero’s experiments and highlights the lasting impact on the lives of those subjected to them. Furthermore, the backstory helps to explain his connection with his twin sister, Android 18 (Lazuli), as they share a common past.
Therefore, understanding the name Lapis provides a crucial key to unlocking further insight into the complexities and motivations of this prominent Dragon Ball character. This article will delve further into the implications of this information and its significance within the broader narrative of the series.
1. Lapis
The designation “Lapis” holds fundamental importance when considering the pre-android identity of Android 17. It signifies his human origin, a critical element for understanding his character development and motivations within the Dragon Ball narrative. Exploring “Lapis” offers insights into the complex transformation he underwent and the lasting impact on his existence.
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Pre-Transformation Identity
The name “Lapis” represents Android 17’s original human identity before his modification by Dr. Gero. This prior existence is not merely a footnote but an essential component of his character arc. It reveals that he was once a normal child who was subjected to extreme experimentation. His subsequent actions and choices are, in part, a consequence of this loss of innocence and forced transformation.
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Contrast to Android Designation
The contrast between “Lapis” and “Android 17” highlights the duality of his existence. “Lapis” symbolizes his lost humanity, while “Android 17” represents his cyborg form and the imposed enhancements. This dichotomy is crucial for appreciating the internal conflict that may exist within the character, torn between his past self and his forced present.
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Connection to Lazuli
The parallel designation of Android 18 as “Lazuli” further emphasizes the significance of these pre-transformation identities. As twins, Lapis and Lazuli shared a common origin, and their transformation into Android 17 and 18 inextricably links their destinies. The shared history influences their relationship and mutual understanding throughout the series.
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Ethical Implications
Considering “Lapis” sheds light on the ethical dimensions of Dr. Gero’s actions. By transforming children into cyborgs against their will, Gero committed a profound violation of human rights. Lapis’s story serves as a reminder of the cost of scientific ambition when it disregards ethical boundaries and the sanctity of individual autonomy.
In summation, the designation “Lapis” provides a crucial lens through which to examine Android 17’s character. Understanding his original identity as Lapis offers valuable context for his motivations, relationships, and overall role in the Dragon Ball saga. It humanizes him, adding depth and complexity to what might otherwise be a simple antagonist or supporting character. The name “Lapis”, therefore, is intrinsically linked to the essence of the individual known as Android 17.
2. Human Identity
The comprehension of Android 17’s human identity is fundamentally intertwined with the matter of his original designation. The designation he held prior to his transformation constitutes a core component of his complete persona. Without understanding that he was once a human, the motives and actions exhibited by Android 17 are substantially deprived of their intrinsic context. His human identity serves as the foundational element upon which his existence as a cyborg is constructed. The transition from human to cyborg, involuntarily imposed by Dr. Gero, generates a complex interplay of loss, resentment, and the struggle for self-discovery that influences his behavior throughout the Dragon Ball narrative. For instance, his initial rebellious stance against Dr. Gero and his pursuit of freedom can be directly attributed to the loss of his former life and the imposition of a new, artificial existence.
Further examination reveals the practical significance of acknowledging this human aspect. Android 17’s capacity for empathy, his eventual cooperation with the Z Fighters, and his decision to protect wildlife on his island sanctuary all stem from his underlying humanity. These qualities would be incomprehensible if he were viewed solely as a machine. Understanding his history allows for a more nuanced appreciation of his character arc, highlighting his capacity for growth and redemption despite his artificial enhancements. Moreover, the relationship with his twin sister, Android 18 (Lazuli), gains deeper resonance when their shared human origins are taken into account. Their bond, formed before their transformation, provides a basis for mutual understanding and loyalty that transcends their cyborg identities.
In conclusion, the human identity of Android 17, represented by his original designation, is an indispensable element of his overall characterization. It provides critical context for his actions, explains his capacity for emotional connection, and underscores the ethical implications of Dr. Gero’s actions. Disregarding this aspect reduces him to a mere automaton, obscuring the complexity and depth of his story. A comprehensive understanding of Android 17 demands recognition of his past self and the enduring impact of his lost humanity.
3. Pre-Transformation Name
The pre-transformation name of Android 17 functions as a critical identifier, intrinsically linked to understanding his genuine identity. This designation, existing prior to his cyborg modification, signifies more than a mere label; it represents his origin, his humanity, and the life forcibly altered by Dr. Gero. The importance of the pre-transformation name lies in its ability to provide context to Android 17’s actions, motivations, and relationships throughout the Dragon Ball narrative. Without acknowledging this foundational element, his character arc remains incomplete and his experiences are viewed through a limited lens. For example, recognizing his initial designation as “Lapis” allows for a deeper appreciation of his rebellious phase, understanding it as a consequence of losing his former self and being subjected to involuntary experimentation. This understanding directly informs our interpretation of his later choices and his eventual embrace of a more heroic path.
Further practical significance arises from the pre-transformation name’s capacity to illuminate the ethical dimensions of Dr. Gero’s actions. By stripping individuals of their former lives and transforming them into cyborgs, Gero committed a profound violation of human autonomy. Acknowledging “Lapis” reinforces the tragic nature of this transformation and highlights the lasting impact on those who were subjected to it. Moreover, the pre-transformation name provides a crucial link to Android 18, whose pre-cyborg designation was “Lazuli.” The shared origin as twins, possessing a common history before their transformation, strengthens their bond and enhances the viewers’ understanding of their mutual support and loyalty. This bond would lack significant depth if their origins were disregarded.
In summary, the pre-transformation name of Android 17 is not merely an incidental detail, but an integral component of his identity. It provides essential context for his actions, sheds light on the ethical implications of his creation, and deepens the understanding of his relationships with other characters. By recognizing and appreciating the significance of his pre-transformation name, viewers gain a more complete and nuanced appreciation of Android 17’s character and his place within the Dragon Ball universe. This understanding is vital to appreciating the complexity of a character who is both human and machine, victim and warrior.
4. Dr. Gero’s Experiment
The circumstances surrounding Dr. Gero’s experiments are directly linked to the matter of Android 17’s true designation. The transformation process, orchestrated by Dr. Gero, involved the conversion of a human being into a cyborg, thereby erasing his prior identity and replacing it with an artificial designation. This action holds critical importance because it underscores the forced nature of Android 17’s existence and highlights the ethical implications of Dr. Gero’s scientific pursuits. Android 17, formerly designated Lapis, was subjected to involuntary experimentation, losing his freedom and autonomy in the process. His pre-android life was essentially erased and rewritten, resulting in a fundamental alteration of his being. This act directly impacts the understanding of his character and motivations, as his subsequent actions are often driven by a desire to reclaim agency and resist the control imposed upon him.
The practical significance of understanding this connection lies in its ability to provide a more nuanced interpretation of Android 17’s character arc. His initial rebellion against Dr. Gero, his eventual cooperation with the Z Fighters, and his final embrace of a peaceful existence are all influenced by the trauma of his forced transformation. Examining Dr. Gero’s experiment allows for a recognition of the psychological impact of this experience and offers a deeper understanding of his motivations. Without acknowledging the origins of his cyborg identity, his choices are often perceived as arbitrary or contradictory. However, when viewed through the lens of Dr. Gero’s experiment, his actions become more coherent and his character gains a richer dimension. The transformation caused great emotional distress to Lapis and Lazuli as they retained some of their human memory.
In summary, Dr. Gero’s experiment is an inseparable component of understanding Android 17’s true designation and, by extension, his character. This experiment represents a violation of individual autonomy and a forced alteration of identity, leaving a lasting impact on his life. Recognizing this connection offers a deeper appreciation of his motivations and actions, allowing for a more complete and nuanced understanding of his role in the Dragon Ball saga. Understanding his transformation gives critical insight to his motives and the reasoning behind his later action and allows one to feel sympathy for the character rather than disdain.
5. Twin Brother of Lazuli
The connection between Android 17’s pre-transformation designation and his identity as the twin brother of Lazuli, later Android 18, is paramount to understanding his character within the Dragon Ball narrative. This familial relationship, established before their transformation, significantly influences their individual actions and their shared fate as cyborgs.
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Shared Origin Story
The common origin story as human twins, Lapis and Lazuli, subjected to Dr. Gero’s experiments forms the bedrock of their bond. This shared trauma and loss of autonomy create a unique understanding between them that transcends their artificial enhancements. Their pre-android designation is not just a name, but an indicator of a shared past and a common experience that shapes their perspectives and actions.
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Motivations and Loyalty
The fraternal connection influences individual motivations and loyalties. Android 17’s concern for his sister, even amidst his rebellious phase, stems from the deeply rooted bond forged before their transformation. The shared experience under Dr. Gero’s control prompts mutual protection and a reluctance to harm each other, demonstrating the enduring power of their pre-existing relationship.
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Contrast to Other Androids
The dynamic between Android 17 and Android 18 differs significantly from Androids 16 and 19 because of their prior kinship. The other androids were created as entirely artificial beings, lacking any pre-existing connections. The presence of a familial bond creates a more complex and humanized dynamic between Android 17 and Android 18, setting them apart from their counterparts and adding depth to their characterization.
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Narrative Significance
The twin relationship serves a significant narrative purpose. It introduces themes of family, loyalty, and the enduring power of human connections even within a context of artificial enhancements and scientific manipulation. The bond between Android 17 and Android 18 provides a counterpoint to the dehumanizing aspects of Dr. Gero’s experiments and reinforces the idea that their humanity, represented by their pre-transformation designation and familial bond, is not entirely lost.
In conclusion, the pre-transformation designation of Android 17, as the twin brother of Lazuli, is indispensable for understanding his character development and relationships. This familial connection informs his actions, motivations, and ultimately, his role in the Dragon Ball universe. The relationship between Android 17 and 18 would lack emotional and story depth if they were not each other twin. Their relationship transcends the artificial nature of their existences.
6. Evolved From Human
The phrase “Evolved From Human” is inextricably linked to the core concept of Android 17’s true designation. It underscores the critical fact that he was not initially an artificial construct but a modified human being. This transformation dictates a fundamental understanding of his motivations, his relationships, and his eventual trajectory within the Dragon Ball narrative. The term “evolved” suggests a gradual process, but in this context, it signifies a radical and involuntary alteration. The individual designated Lapis was forcefully transitioned into a cyborg, a being with enhanced capabilities but also subjected to the loss of his former life and autonomy. This “evolution” is not a natural progression, but a violent imposition. The fact that Android 17 “Evolved From Human” is key to unlocking what Android 17 real name represents for the character.
The practical significance of understanding that Android 17 “Evolved From Human” arises in several areas. First, it elucidates his initial rebellious stance against Dr. Gero. As a human forcibly converted into a cyborg, his resentment towards his creator stems from the loss of his prior existence and the imposition of an artificial one. Second, it provides context for his eventual connection with the Z Fighters. His lingering humanity, a direct consequence of his human origins, allows him to empathize with others and ultimately fight for a cause greater than himself. Third, it deepens our understanding of his bond with Android 18. Their shared human origins create a connection that transcends their cyborg identities, fueling a mutual protectiveness and loyalty. This understanding would be impossible to grasp without acknowledging their pre-transformation status. Without the understanding, fans could not properly discuss what Android 17 real name mean to the character.
In conclusion, the connection between “Evolved From Human” and the true designation of Android 17 is one of cause and effect. His human origins determine his character arc and shape his interactions with others. Acknowledging that he “Evolved From Human” provides essential context for his actions and motivations, leading to a more nuanced appreciation of his character within the Dragon Ball saga. This evolutionary past is a key part of his identity and cannot be separated from any discussion of “what is Android 17 real name.”
7. Parallel to Android 18
The similarities between Android 17 and Android 18 extend far beyond their shared designation as cyborgs created by Dr. Gero. These parallels offer critical insights into the significance of “what is android 17 real name” and its impact on their respective identities and character arcs. Understanding these connections provides a more comprehensive perspective on their individual and shared experiences.
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Shared Pre-Transformation Identity
Both Android 17 and Android 18 were originally human twins, Lapis and Lazuli respectively. This shared origin is fundamental to their bond and their initial resistance against Dr. Gero. Their pre-transformation identities serve as reminders of their lost humanity and provide a common ground for their experiences as cyborgs. The shared origin creates an understanding that only they can comprehend.
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Forced Transformation and Loss of Autonomy
Both individuals were subjected to involuntary experimentation by Dr. Gero, resulting in the loss of their human autonomy and the imposition of artificial enhancements. This shared trauma shapes their initial distrust of authority and their desire for freedom. The understanding of this parallel helps explain their early actions and motivations in the Dragon Ball narrative. Without understanding this parallel, you cannot explore what Android 17 real name represents.
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Evolving Humanity and Redemption
Despite their artificial enhancements, both Android 17 and Android 18 retain elements of their humanity. This is reflected in their evolving relationships, their capacity for empathy, and their eventual integration into the Z Fighters. Their transformation does not fully eliminate their human element, but rather complicates and redefines it. Both characters demonstrate their continued capacity for compassion.
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Independent Paths and Divergent Outcomes
While they share a common origin and initial experiences, Android 17 and Android 18 eventually diverge in their paths. Android 18 forms a romantic relationship with Krillin and starts a family, while Android 17 chooses a more solitary path as a park ranger. These divergent choices highlight their individual agency and the different ways they navigate their cyborg existence. Their parallel yet divergent choices demonstrate what what Android 17 real name represents.
In conclusion, the parallels between Android 17 and Android 18 provide valuable context for understanding their individual identities and their shared history. These connections, rooted in their pre-transformation designation, their forced transformation, and their evolving humanity, offer a more complete understanding of their characters and their roles within the Dragon Ball universe. The common theme is one that underscores what what Android 17 real name represents.
8. Significance of Origin
The background of the individual known as Android 17, particularly the designation he held prior to his transformation, is not merely a biographical detail. It profoundly shapes his character, motivations, and relationships within the Dragon Ball universe. An exploration of the “significance of origin” in relation to his pre-android designation provides a deeper understanding of his complexities.
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Understanding Motivations
Android 17’s origin as a human, designated Lapis, directly influences his motivations. His initial rebellion against Dr. Gero, his eventual alliance with the Z Fighters, and his commitment to protecting wildlife on his island sanctuary all stem from his underlying humanity. These motivations are difficult to explain without acknowledging his past. His desire for freedom and his concern for living beings are direct consequences of his transformation and forced alteration. Knowing “what is android 17 real name” is useful in deciphering his decisions.
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Ethical Implications of Transformation
The circumstances surrounding Android 17’s origin raise critical ethical questions. His transformation was involuntary and imposed by Dr. Gero, representing a violation of individual autonomy and a disregard for human rights. Recognizing his pre-android designation highlights the tragic nature of this transformation and underscores the ethical implications of scientific experimentation. This point allows one to consider “what is android 17 real name” represents beyond just its basic definition.
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Connection to Android 18
Android 17’s origin as the twin brother of Android 18 (Lazuli) significantly impacts their relationship. Their shared past as humans creates a bond that transcends their artificial enhancements. This kinship influences their mutual loyalty and their understanding of each other’s experiences. Disregarding their origins diminishes the significance of their relationship and overlooks a key element of their character development. Their common history adds story depth to understanding “what is android 17 real name.”
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Thematic Resonance
Android 17’s origin contributes to the thematic resonance of the Dragon Ball series. His story explores themes of identity, free will, and the potential for redemption. His journey from a rebellious cyborg to a protector of nature reinforces the idea that even those who have been subjected to extreme transformation can still embrace their humanity and contribute positively to the world. This theme helps connect “what is android 17 real name” to the series overall message.
In summary, the significance of Android 17’s origin, particularly his pre-android designation, cannot be overstated. It provides crucial context for his motivations, relationships, and overall character arc. Disregarding his past diminishes his complexity and undermines the ethical and thematic resonance of his story. Thus, to fully understand Android 17, it is imperative to acknowledge and explore his beginnings and what “what is android 17 real name” truly means in the grand scheme of his existence.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the designation of the character known as Android 17 prior to his transformation into a cyborg. The answers provided aim to clarify misconceptions and offer a comprehensive understanding of his origins.
Question 1: Is the term “Android 17’s real name” accurate when referring to his pre-transformation designation?
The term “real name” is a simplification. While “Lapis” represents his identity before becoming a cyborg, “Android 17” is also a designation with significance within the Dragon Ball universe. Both terms identify the same individual at different stages of existence. It is more accurate to say Lapis is Android 17’s pre-transformation designation.
Question 2: Why is knowing Android 17’s pre-transformation designation important?
Understanding the origins allows for a more nuanced understanding of his motivations, actions, and relationships within the Dragon Ball narrative. His experiences prior to becoming a cyborg inform his decisions and help explain his character development.
Question 3: Does Android 17 remember his life as Lapis?
The extent of his memories of his life is not explicitly detailed in the series. However, it is implied that he retains some memories or impressions of his past, as evidenced by his relationship with his twin sister, Android 18.
Question 4: Does Android 18 share the same pre-transformation circumstances?
Yes, Android 18, also known as Lazuli prior to her transformation, shared similar circumstances. They were both human twins who were involuntarily converted into cyborgs by Dr. Gero.
Question 5: Is Dr. Gero solely responsible for the change designation?
Yes. The designation “Android 17” and “Android 18” are given by Dr. Gero to signify their new identities as cyborgs under his control. They are a direct result of his scientific experiments and his desire to create powerful warriors.
Question 6: Does understanding his prior identity change the perception of the character?
Yes, it can enhance the perception of his character, humanizing his actions. It creates empathy with viewers as they observe the actions. Without knowing of the prior identity, viewers might simply see him as a mindless machine.
In summary, knowing Android 17’s designation prior to his transformation as Lapis enhances the understanding of his origin and his actions and helps fans better understand and have empathy for the character.
The following section will further explore the implications of this information and its impact on the overall narrative of the Dragon Ball series.
Understanding Android 17’s Identity
This section provides concise guidance on effectively understanding the character Android 17 by focusing on his designation before becoming a cyborg. Understanding his designation helps to understand the character better.
Tip 1: Acknowledge His Human Origins: The designation “Lapis” signifies his human background. Failing to recognize this aspect leads to a superficial understanding of his character.
Tip 2: Consider the Impact of Dr. Gero’s Experiment: The forced transformation profoundly affected him. This experience explains his initial rebellion and subsequent actions.
Tip 3: Recognize the Twin Connection: The relationship with Android 18, formerly Lazuli, is central to understanding his motivations and his sense of loyalty.
Tip 4: Humanization via His Transformation: When viewers see Android 17 as transformed as opposed to created, it allows for the viewer to empathize. Empathy humanizes his actions and creates increased emotion.
Tip 5: His Current Designation: “Android 17” serves a purpose, but fans should understand this identity, it does not tell the whole story. Use “Lapis” in conjunction with Android 17 for depth.
Tip 6: Understanding his Name Outside the Story: You are able to more thoroughly defend or analyze any question regarding him.
Acknowledging these points facilitates a deeper engagement with his character and a more informed appreciation of his narrative arc within the Dragon Ball universe. A thorough comprehension of these details ensures a more complete and accurate perception of Android 17’s role in the series.
The following section will conclude this exploration, summarizing the key findings and their implications for future analysis of the character.
Conclusion
The exploration of “what is android 17 real name” reveals its significance extends beyond a mere designation. The pre-transformation designation, Lapis, serves as a crucial identifier, unlocking a deeper understanding of his motivations, relationships, and place within the Dragon Ball narrative. Ignoring this element diminishes the complexities of his character, obscuring the ethical implications of his creation and the depth of his bond with Android 18.
Comprehending “what is android 17 real name” is essential for a complete and nuanced perspective on the character. Further analysis of the Dragon Ball series should prioritize acknowledging these origins to foster a more informed and comprehensive appreciation of Android 17 and his contributions to the story. Ignoring the human designation strips away layers of the character.
