Scar from Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Introduction
Scar, also known as the "Scarred Man" (傷の男, Kizu no Otoko), is a complex and deeply nuanced character from the anime series Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, created by Hiromu Arakawa. Introduced in the manga series and faithfully adapted in the 2009 anime, Scar is a pivotal figure in the narrative, embodying themes of vengeance, redemption, and the struggle between hatred and compassion.
Scar hails from the region of Ishval, a land and people devastated by a civil war against the state military of Amestris. His backstory is marked by tragedy, including the loss of his family and the destruction of his homeland. This history is central to his character and motivations, as he seeks revenge against the State Alchemists who were instrumental in the Ishvalan War [3][4].
Scar’s creation by Hiromu Arakawa was influenced by her own background and the historical conflicts between the people of Hokkaido and the Ainu. Arakawa designed Scar to represent the continuous encounter and conflict between different cultures, making him a symbol of the ongoing struggles and resentments that arise from such conflicts [3].
Role in the Story
Scar’s journey in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is one of transformation and growth. Initially, he is introduced as a villain who targets State Alchemists, driven by a deep-seated hatred for those responsible for the destruction of his people. His method of killing involves using his right arm, which is tattooed with an intricate transmutation array designed by his older brother. This arm allows him to deconstruct anything he touches, reducing it to its basic elements without reconstructing it, a process that is both powerful and taboo according to Ishvalan beliefs [2][3].
Scar’s path of vengeance leads him to encounter the Elric brothers, Edward and Alphonse, who are on their own quest to restore their bodies. The initial confrontations between Scar and the Elrics are intense, with Scar’s actions driven by his desire for revenge against State Alchemists. However, as the series progresses, Scar’s interactions with other characters, particularly Winry Rockbell, whose parents he had killed, begin to challenge his motivations and force him to question his actions [2][5].
A significant turning point in Scar’s storyline occurs when he learns more about his brother’s research and the true nature of alchemy. Despite his initial abhorrence of alchemy, Scar comes to understand and eventually embrace his brother’s work, using it to help the cause of rebuilding Ishval and fighting against the true enemies of the state. This shift is marked by his participation in the battle against the homunculi and his role in activating a transmutation circle to enhance the alchemists’ powers [3][5].
Character Analysis
Scar’s personality is complex and multifaceted. Initially, he is portrayed as a brooding, vicious, and angry man consumed by hatred towards the State Alchemists. However, as the series unfolds, his character reveals layers of compassion, intelligence, and a deep sense of morality. Scar is a skilled alchemist and a formidable fighter, but his true strength lies in his ability to reflect on his actions and change his path.
One of the most compelling aspects of Scar’s character is his struggle with his own morality. Despite being an adherent of the Ishvalan faith, which opposes alchemy, Scar uses alchemy to exact his revenge. This internal conflict is a recurring theme, as he grapples with the contradiction between his faith and his actions. His journey is one of self-discovery, where he moves from a cycle of vengeance to a path of redemption and cooperation with his former enemies [2][5].
Scar’s relationships with other characters are also pivotal to his development. His interactions with Winry, who holds him accountable for her parents’ death, force him to confront the consequences of his actions. His bond with characters like Yoki, Marcoh, and Mei Chang further humanizes him, showing a side that is capable of empathy and cooperation [1][3].
Themes and Symbolism
Scar embodies several key themes in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, including the cycle of violence, the nature of revenge, and the importance of redemption. His character serves as a critique of blind hatred and the destructive cycle it perpetuates. Through Scar’s journey, the series highlights the importance of forgiveness and the need to break free from the chains of vengeance.
Scar also symbolizes the clash between different cultures and the consequences of historical conflicts. His story reflects the real-world issues of colonialism, genocide, and the ongoing struggles of indigenous peoples. Arakawa’s use of Scar as a character represents her own reflections on the historical conflicts in Hokkaido and the Ainu people, adding a layer of depth and realism to the narrative [3].
Cultural Impact
Scar has had a significant cultural impact, both within the anime community and beyond. His complex character and nuanced development have made him a favorite among fans, who appreciate his depth and the moral dilemmas he faces. The character’s portrayal in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood has been praised for its faithfulness to the manga and its contribution to the series’ critical acclaim [4].
In adaptations and spin-offs, Scar’s character has been consistently well-received. His voice actors, such as Kenta Miyake in the Japanese version and J. Michael Tatum in the English dub, have brought his character to life, capturing the complexity and emotion of his journey [3].
Scar’s influence extends beyond the anime itself, inspiring discussions on themes such as revenge, forgiveness, and cultural conflict. His character archetype has influenced other works in anime and manga, serving as a model for complex, morally ambiguous characters.
Critical Reception
Critics and audiences have praised Scar for his compelling character arc and the depth he brings to the narrative. His transformation from a one-dimensional villain to a multifaceted character is often cited as one of the highlights of the series. The character’s moral complexity and the themes he represents have been lauded for their realism and impact.
However, some critics have noted the initial brutality of Scar’s actions and the challenges of sympathizing with a character who has committed such atrocities. Despite this, his eventual redemption and the reasons behind his actions are generally seen as a powerful commentary on the nature of revenge and forgiveness [1][5].
Legacy
Scar’s legacy in the world of anime and manga is enduring. He remains one of the most memorable and complex characters in the Fullmetal Alchemist series, and his story continues to resonate with audiences. His character serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy, forgiveness, and the need to break free from cycles of violence.
In contemporary discussions, Scar’s character continues to inspire reflections on historical conflicts, cultural clashes, and the ongoing struggles of marginalized communities. His story is a testament to the power of character development and the impact that nuanced, complex characters can have on audiences.
