: To save Matt from drowning after Rebekah runs their truck off Wickery Bridge, Elena insists Stefan save Matt first, leading to her own death.
: While traveling with Matt, Elena calls Damon to tell him she has chosen to go back to Stefan. She famously tells Damon, "Maybe if I'd met you first...". The_vampire_diares_3x22
: Fans often note that water represents both death and rebirth for Elena, as she dies where her parents did but is "reborn" as a vampire. : To save Matt from drowning after Rebekah
The of The Vampire Diaries , titled " The Departed ," is one of the show's most iconic episodes, featuring Elena’s transition into a vampire and the emotional "choice" between the Salvatore brothers. 🎬 Key Plot Moments : Fans often note that water represents both
: The episode heavily parallels Elena's breakup with Matt (pre-pilot) to her current situation with the brothers, framing Stefan as her "now" and Damon as her "always".