So I got to the infamous chess scene from Code Geass.

My interpretation of this scene is interesting, because I think the writing behind this sequence is genius if you view it with a certain perspective.

This will be an essay analyzing this sequence. Please enjoy.

The controversy starts with this.

Schneizel performs an illegal move during the chess game, by moving his King in front of Lelouch's King.

Now, it's easy to view this scene as the writers not knowing the rules of chess. But I don't think that this scene should be viewed-

with the context of the chess game itself in mind.

This scene should be examined more on what the brothers are trying to express through their playing. IMO, if you view this scene as Lelouch and Schneizel KNOWING that the move was illegal, it becomes much more coherent.

Schneizel as a character is defined by his control over others. By making this illegal move, he's saying to Lelouch this:

"What? Are you going to call out my illegal move? No one else will, after all I'm the Prime Minister."

It forces Lelouch into a situation where he has to-

make one of several decisions.

1: Take Schneizel's King and win the game, showing that Lelouch will take any victory given to him.
2: Call out Schneizel for the illegal move, showing him that he is focused on the logic of the game rather than the real battle going on.

3: Retreat and show that he won't fall for Schneizel's "trap"(which is what he does)
4: Capture Schneizel's King with the Pawn next to it, showing that Lelouch will do away with his problems with even the minimum.

This isn't about chess. It's about their battle tactics.

With this in mind, the scene isn't perfect.

But it says so much about both characters that I think it's interesting regardless.

It is completely fair if you disagree with my thoughts, but I would like your own interpretation of this scene in the replies.

Thanks for Reading.

Chances are, I may expand upon this essay in a video.

But I won't promise that.