On 30th August, the literary world celebrates Frankenstein, a timeless tale that has captivated readers for centuries. This special day is dedicated to the iconic character created by Mary Shelley, a name that has become synonymous with the power of creation and the consequences that can arise from it.
Frankenstein’s influence stretches far beyond literature and has permeated popular culture in various forms, including anime and manga. The character holds such significance that even without a comprehensive character breakdown or visual depiction, the mere mention of the name instantly conjures a vivid image in the minds of many.
Like the character Sebastion, who has become synonymous with the role of a butler, Frankenstein embodies a concept that transcends its origin. Just as some characters humorously assert that their name is not Sebastion, the impact of Frankenstein can be seen when other fictional creations are compared to or referenced in relation to this infamous character.
So, on this Frankenstein Day, let us raise a metaphorical toast to Shelley’s enduring creation and the power of storytelling that continues to captivate and inspire us all. Below are two ‘true-blue’ Frankensteins, and then one which I take as Frankenstein because he may as well be.
Noblesse
One of the things that initially drew me to Frankenstein was his striking appearance. With his blonde hair and piercing gaze, he immediately commanded attention whenever he appeared. But it wasn’t just his looks that captivated me; it was his complex personality and intriguing backstory that truly made him stand out.
As the loyal servant of the protagonist, Rai, Frankenstein’s unwavering dedication and loyalty were evident from the very beginning. Despite his position as a servant, he held immense power and skill, making him an invaluable asset to Rai and his allies. But what fascinated me even more was the way Frankenstein balanced his intelligence and charisma with a slightly unpredictable side.
There were moments when Frankenstein’s calculating nature would give way to a touch of insanity, making him an unpredictable force to be reckoned with. His unique blend of brilliance, charisma, and occasional bouts of madness made him an incredibly compelling character to follow throughout the series.
Not only was his personality multi-faceted, but Frankenstein’s character development was also well-executed. As the story progressed, we were given glimpses into his past, revealing the tragedies and hardships he had endured. This added depth to his character, making him more relatable and human despite his extraordinary abilities.
Furthermore, Frankenstein’s role in the overall narrative of Noblesse cannot be understated. He played a pivotal part in shaping the storyline, not only as a mentor and guardian to Rai, but also as a key player in the larger conflict between humans and supernatural beings. With his quick thinking, strategic planning, and formidable combat skills, Frankenstein proved himself to be an indispensable ally in the face of danger.
Overall, Frankenstein is a character who manages to leave a lasting impression. His complexities, from loyalty to intelligence, charisma to occasional insanity, make him a fascinating and unforgettable presence in the world of webtoons. It is no wonder that he has become one of my all-time favourites.
Soul Eater
One of the most intriguing characters I’ve come across in my anime journey is none other than Frankenstein from the popular series Soul Eater. At first glance, he may appear to be nothing more than a clumsy and odd individual, but as the story unfolds, it becomes evident that there is so much more to him than meets the eye.
Frankenstein’s character arc is captivating, as he undergoes considerable development throughout the series. His initial introduction as a “sadistic” figure makes one believe that he revels in inflicting pain upon others. However, as the story progresses, it becomes apparent that his actions are driven not by a sadistic nature, but rather by his relentless pursuit of knowledge and understanding. Frankenstein is not intentionally cruel, but rather lacks the ability to fully empathise with others and consider their feelings.
What I find fascinating about Frankenstein is his complexity. Beneath his seemingly scatterbrained and absent-minded demeanor lies a truly brilliant mind. His knowledge and expertise in the realm of alchemy are unparalleled, making him a formidable opponent on the battlefield. It’s this combination of intellectual prowess and physical prowess that makes him such a compelling and memorable character.
Despite his flaws and quirks, Frankenstein’s vulnerability and moments of introspection make him surprisingly relatable. His journey of self-discovery and growth resonates with viewers, reminding us that even those who may seem eccentric or disconnected from the world around them can harbour deep layers of humanity.
In conclusion, Frankenstein’s character in Soul Eater is a testament to the power of nuanced storytelling. He challenges our preconceptions and forces us to question our initial judgments. With his depth, complexity, and surprising depth as a fighter, Frankenstein has undoubtedly earned his place as a fan favourite in the world of anime. I have a full character breakdown on Soul Eater’s Frankenstein here if you are interested.
One Piece
In the vast world of One Piece, Franky is a larger-than-life character with a fascinating backstory and an eccentric personality. He is known for his unique appearance, a blend of a cyborg and a wrestler, and his trademark catchphrases like “SUPER!” and “SUUUUUPAAAAA!” From his bulging muscles to his modified body, Franky is instantly recognisable and stands out among the colourful characters in the series.
Franky’s origins can be traced back to his childhood as Cutty Flam, a brilliant shipwright who grew up in Water 7. However, his life took a dramatic turn when he encountered the Straw Hat Pirates, the main protagonists of the series. Joining forces with Monkey D. Luffy and his crew, Franky embarked on a journey full of adventure, danger, and personal growth.
What makes Franky truly fascinating is his ability to create incredible inventions. He is a master engineer and inventor, constantly modifying his own body and creating fantastical gadgets such as the Coup de Burst, a feature that allows the Straw Hat Pirates’ ship, the Thousand Sunny, to soar through the sky. His repertoire of inventions also includes weapons like the Radical Beam and the Franky Shogun, a giant robot controlled by Franky himself.
But Franky is more than just a mad scientist and a skilled shipwright. He is also a loyal friend and fiercely protective crewmate. His boisterous, undeniably passionate nature often leads to hilarious and memorable moments. Despite his sometimes confrontational demeanour, Franky has a heart of gold and is always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need.
One of the defining aspects of Franky’s character is his dream to build and sail the ultimate ship. This dream represents his unwavering determination and his desire to leave a lasting legacy in the world of shipbuilding. It serves as a constant driving force behind his actions and motivates him to push the boundaries of what is possible.
In conclusion, Franky’s larger-than-life personality, his inventive genius, and his unwavering loyalty make him a beloved character in the world of One Piece.
Well, there you have it, my three favourite Frankenstein characters in anime. Are there any other contenders for my Frankenstein list? Leave your favourite Franky nomination in the comments.
Happy Frankenstein Day!
Can’t really argue with Stein from Soul Eater. He was just fantastic.