Steven Universe Season 1 Episode 23 Monster Buddies

Steven Universe season 1 episode 23, entitled Monster Buddies, follows the continuing adventures of Steven and the Crystal Gems as they try to protect Earth from a variety of threats. In this episode, Steven finds himself face to face with a terrifying creature known as a "Gem monster." Although the Crystal Gems usually destroy these monsters on sight, Steven can't bring himself to do it. Instead, he sees the monster as a potential friend and tries to befriend it.

As he spends more time with the monster, which he names "Centipeetle," Steven learns more about it and its history. He discovers that the monster was once a Gem warrior, like the Crystal Gems, but was corrupted by some unknown force. Unable to control herself, Centipeetle began attacking humans and Gems alike until she was eventually defeated by the Crystal Gems and sealed away in a gemstone.

Despite the danger that Centipeetle poses, Steven is determined to help her. He is convinced that there is still some part of her original self left and wants to try to heal her. To do this, he enlists the help of the Crystal Gems, who are initially hesitant but eventually come around to Steven's way of thinking.

The rest of the episode follows Steven and the Crystal Gems as they try to help Centipeetle. They attempt various methods of healing, but all of them fail. Meanwhile, Centipeetle's behavior becomes increasingly erratic, and the monster becomes more dangerous to be around.

Throughout the episode, the themes of empathy and the importance of trying to understand those who are different than oneself are explored. Steven's willingness to befriend a monster that everyone else sees as a threat highlights the idea that sometimes, people (or monsters) just need someone to believe in them.

As the episode progresses, the tension builds as Centipeetle's behavior becomes more and more unpredictable. Eventually, the situation comes to a head, and the Crystal Gems are forced to make a difficult decision about Centipeetle's fate.

Overall, Monster Buddies is a touching and thought-provoking episode that challenges viewers to consider the importance of empathy and understanding. As Steven continues to learn and grow, the show becomes increasingly nuanced and complex, making it a must-watch for fans of animation and storytelling alike.