This episode:  Serious Fucking Turning Point

Before now, Castiel’s character has been presented as absolute, aloof, and slightly bemused by the humanity that he has come to love.  He questioned an order, and began to see that there was more to fight for.  He was presented as a soldier first and a reluctant rebel second.

Now, as Naomi’s veil fades more and more, we see the true Castiel. The Castiel who has been struggling against his shackles and attempting to thwart the corruption of heaven for ages now.  He is grouchy and sardonic, drinks bad coffee, and eats greasy burgers.  He is a rebel first and a rebel always.  They try to force him into their toy soldier mold, but he breaks free every time.

This show, and these characters, are fucking unparalleled.  They are seriously in their own league here.  And still nobody even watches this show.