Mei Chang (Character) - Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Introduction

Mei Chang, often spelled as May Chang or Mei Chan, is a significant character in the anime and manga series Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, created by Hiromu Arakawa. As the 17th royal princess of the nation of Xing, Mei is born to the Xingese Emperor and a royal mistress representing the Chang house. Despite her young age, Mei is tasked with the crucial mission of finding a way to raise the social standing of her poor clan, which involves discovering the secret to immortality and learning about the Philosopher’s Stone^[2][3].

Mei’s character is notable for her unique skills in alkahestry, a form of alchemy practiced in Xing that utilizes the flow of life from the Earth. Her journey and interactions with other characters add a rich layer to the narrative, making her a beloved and integral part of the Fullmetal Alchemist universe.

Role in the Story

Mei Chang’s storyline begins with her journey from Xing to Amestris, accompanied only by her pet panda, Xiao Mei. Her mission is to learn about the Philosopher’s Stone and to find a way to achieve immortality, which she believes will elevate her clan’s status. Upon arriving in Amestris, Mei encounters various characters, including the Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse, and Scar, an Ishbalan warrior priest^[1][2].

Initially, Mei’s path crosses with the Elrics in a confrontational manner, but she eventually teams up with Alphonse, developing strong feelings for him. Her relationship with Alphonse is marked by her imaginative nature, as she envisions him as a handsome and chivalrous figure. This dynamic adds a touching and humorous element to the story^[2][3].

Mei’s travels also lead her to form a significant bond with Scar, who becomes a key ally. Together, they navigate through various challenges, including battles against the homunculi and other adversaries. Her involvement in decoding Scar’s brother’s notes and her ability to sense the presence of powerful non-human entities, such as Father and the homunculi, highlight her intelligence and unique alkahestry skills^[1][5].

Character Analysis

Mei Chang is a complex and multifaceted character, known for her remarkable inner strength, independence, intelligence, and bravery. Despite her young age, she undertakes a perilous journey across the desert between Xing and Amestris, demonstrating her resilience and determination^[2][5].

Her personality is marked by a vivid imagination, which can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, her imagination allows her to think creatively and come up with innovative solutions that others might overlook. However, it also leads her to daydream and lose focus in critical situations, occasionally causing her to ignore the truth in favor of her own delusions^[5].

Mei’s motivations are deeply rooted in her desire to help her family and clan. Her search for immortality and the Philosopher’s Stone is driven by a sense of duty and loyalty. This commitment, combined with her bravery and willingness to risk her life, makes her a compelling and relatable character^[2][5].

Themes and Symbolism

Mei Chang embodies several themes that are central to the narrative of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. Her journey and character represent the themes of family, duty, and the pursuit of knowledge. Her efforts to elevate her clan’s status through her search for immortality reflect the broader theme of the series: the quest for something greater than oneself, often at great personal cost^[1][4].

Mei’s use of alkahestry also symbolizes a connection to the natural world and the flow of life, contrasting with the more mechanical and scientific approach of Amestrian alchemy. This contrast highlights the diversity and richness of the alchemical practices within the series, adding depth to the world-building^[5].

Cultural Impact

Mei Chang has had a significant cultural impact on the Fullmetal Alchemist fandom. Her unique character and skills have made her a favorite among fans, who appreciate her bravery, intelligence, and imaginative nature. The ship between Mei and Alphonse, known as "AlMei," is particularly popular within the fandom, reflecting the strong emotional connection between the two characters^[3].

In adaptations and spin-offs, Mei has been portrayed consistently with her character in the original series. Her voice actresses, Mai Goto in Japanese and Monica Rial in English, have brought her to life in a way that resonates with audiences. The live-action film trilogy also features Mei, further solidifying her presence in the broader Fullmetal Alchemist media landscape^[1][4].

Critical Reception

Mei Chang has received positive reception from both critics and audiences. Her character is praised for adding a fresh and unique perspective to the story, particularly through her alkahestry skills and her imaginative personality. Critics have noted her intelligence and bravery, which make her a valuable asset to the team of characters fighting against the homunculi and other adversaries^[5].

The series’ faithful adaptation of the manga, including Mei’s character, has been lauded for its consistency and depth. The emotional connections she forms with other characters, especially Alphonse, have been highlighted as a strong point of the series, contributing to its overall critical acclaim^[4].

Legacy

Mei Chang’s enduring appeal lies in her well-rounded character and the significant role she plays in the Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood narrative. Her combination of bravery, intelligence, and imagination makes her a memorable and inspiring character. Her relationships with other characters, particularly Alphonse, have become iconic within the series, reflecting the themes of friendship, loyalty, and personal growth^[2][3].

Mei’s influence can be seen in other works and character archetypes, where young, determined, and imaginative characters are often portrayed as key figures in their respective stories. Her legacy in the Fullmetal Alchemist series ensures that she remains a beloved character, continuing to inspire new generations of fans and creators.