Throughout the years, anime has delved into a wide range of themes, portraying them in their own distinct ways. One such exploration involves the representation of complex human traits through characters embodying the seven deadly sins - lust, greed, gluttony, sloth, wrath, envy, and pride.
These inherent vices, deeply rooted in human nature, often manifest in the anime world through characters in various series. The inclusion of these sins adds layers of complexity to a character's personality and is integral to their development throughout the narrative. With that in mind, let's explore anime that feature characters based on these seven sins.
Every anime with characters embodying the seven deadly sins of humanity
1) The Seven Deadly Sins
The image displayed is from the Seven Deadly Sins series, produced by Studio A-1 Pictures.
True to its title, the anime effectively portrays the seven sins of humanity through its main characters. The plot revolves around the Seven Deadly Sins, a group of formidable knights, with the lead character Meliodas personifying the Sin of Wrath. Other key figures like Diane embody the Sin of Envy, while Escanor represents the Sin of Pride.
2) Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
The exploration of the complexities of these sins is masterfully portrayed in this series, delving into the past, motivations, and inner conflicts of each character. Undoubtedly, it offers a compelling examination of human nature and the timeless struggle against the seven deadly sins of humanity.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood series (image via Studio Bones)
Regarded as one of the greatest, if not the greatest, series of all time, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood delves into the theme of the seven sins. The Homunculi, who play a central role as antagonists in the series, personify each of these sins.
Created by the Homunculus Father, the Homunculi embody the sins and offer a profound insight into them through their behavior and relationships. In addition, the story also delves into the heroes' efforts to conquer these sins through acts of sacrifice and redemption.
3) Blue Exorcist
The Blue Exorcist anime (image via Studio A-1 Pictures) showcases characters embodying the themes of the seven sins of humanity, though they are not explicitly labeled as such. The series' main character, Rin Okumura, who discovers that he is the son of Satan, embodies the Sin of Wrath due to his fiery temper and difficulty controlling his anger, especially when provoked by others.
, Rin's brother Yukio often displays traits of the Sin of Pride due to his achievements, while Mephisto Pheles, a high-ranking demon and administrator at True Cross Academy, shows traits of the Sin of Envy through his fascination with humanity and their free will.
Each of the anime series mentioned above incorporates characters or concepts that draw from the seven deadly sins, offering a diverse range of interpretations. The examination of these vices in the context of the anime serves as a poignant reminder of the multifaceted challenges that shape the human experience, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Editor's P/S
As a hard fan of anime, I am thrilled to see the exploration of the seven deadly sins in these series. The concept of embodying these vices through characters adds depth and complexity to the narratives, making them more relatable and thought-provoking. The Seven Deadly Sins series, in particular, stands out in its portrayal of the sins, with each character representing a different sin and their struggles to overcome them. It's fascinating to witness how these characters grapple with their inner demons and the consequences of their actions, making for a compelling and emotionally resonant viewing experience.
Furthermore, the inclusion of the seven deadly sins in anime allows for a deeper exploration of human nature and the moral dilemmas that arise from these vices. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood and Blue Exorcist both delve into the complexities of the sins and their impact on the characters' lives, providing a nuanced and introspective look at the human condition. These series challenge viewers to reflect on their own actions and the potential consequences of succumbing to these temptations, making them not only entertaining but also thought-provoking and morally instructive.