- last post: 01.01.0001 12:00 AM PDT
SPOILER ALERT - IN CASE YOU HAVE NOT READ THE BOOKS
Remember that AI's are described as having a limited lifespan. It is said that most AI's only last about 7 years. Sooner or later, they simply think themselves to death. It is also stated, however, that Cortana was different / more advanced than other AI's, so they can either use the "lifespan" concept or disregard it.
Also, Cortana has been hanging out with the Gravemind. In the next-to-last board, Cortana describes an alien intelligence "inside the ship that is fighting back." She assumed it was a Covenant construct, but it could be something that screwed her up.
Lastly, in the first book, when we originally are introduced to Cortana, it is very specific that Cortana has a connection with the MC due to her being based on Dr. Halsey and she is said to have sworn to herself to never do anything that would harm the MC out of guilt for what happened to him in his childhood.
Bottom Line:
I don't believe Cortana is 'evil' in Halo 3. She is most likely disturbed in some way, or perhaps simply damaged. Maybe she might seem to be twisted or corrupted, but in the end she will end up being the Cortana we have grown to love.
Not an "Evil Cortana"....maybe just "Naughty Cortana"....which would really be cool, from a 'dark side' perspective....