Decided to do a visual rundown of the symbolism associated with Zuko’s face. Although we get more symbolic layering in Book 3, it should be noted that it’s Book 2 that plays around with good/evil symbolism as Zuko struggles with his decisions.

To give a few examples,

“The Serpent’s Pass” gives us this little bit of symbolism. After Iroh finishes what he has to say about change, he looks to Zuko who returns the look. As he does so, Zuko’s scar is hidden from the audience’s view for a good coupole of seconds.

The most notable example,. however, comes from “The Crossroads of Destiny,” where we get:

Katara offering to heal Zuko’s scar, and with that what the scar represents: Zuko’s identity as the banished prince.

Shortly afterwards, we get this very deliberate showing of either side of Zuko’s face after his encounter with Azula:

Because the scar and what it represents are still important to him, Zuko evidently chooses to side with Azula. However, by Book 3, Zuko finally changes for the better, and with that so does the meaning of his scar.