Series & First Appearance
William James Moriarty is a central character in the anime and manga series "Moriarty the Patriot" (Yuukoku no Moriarty), created by Ryousuke Takeuchi and designed by Hikaru Miyoshi. He made his debut in Chapter 1 of the manga, released in 2016, and appears in Episode 1 of the anime, which premiered in October 2020.
Profile at a Glance
William James Moriarty is depicted as a young man in his early twenties, serving as both a protagonist and a complex anti-hero. He is a mathematics professor with a brilliant intellect and serves as the first-ever "crime consultant," using his expertise to take down corrupt nobility. His signature weapon is cunning, along with adept strategic and combat abilities, which he employs to enact his grand plans against the oppressive social structures of his time.
Personality & Motivations
Moriarty is characterized by his sharp intellect, charisma, and an unwavering belief in his vision of justice. He is a pragmatic idealist driven by a deep-seated desire to eliminate the corrupt class system that has exploited the less fortunate, often manifesting his motivations through elaborate schemes. He possesses a calm demeanor but can exhibit ruthlessness when fulfilling his goals. His notable quirks include his confidence in mathematical precision and a calculated, almost playful, demeanor when executing his plans. He often engages in philosophical discussions about morality and justice, hinting at a deeper understanding of human nature.
Abilities / Powers
William’s primary assets lie in his genius-level intellect and exceptional analytical skills. He excels in mathematics, strategy, and criminal psychology, allowing him to predict human behavior and manipulate situations to his advantage. His combat style is primarily focused on using his environment and intellect rather than brute force. Although he is not portrayed as physically dominant, he is skilled in hand-to-hand combat and strategic planning. As the series progresses, his abilities evolve as he encounters various adversaries, showcasing his adaptability and the profound depth of his strategic thinking. His limitations, however, include his emotional detachment, which sometimes leads to questionable moral choices.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
William’s journey begins with the backstory of his life as an orphan, adopted into the Moriarty family by Albert Moriarty, who recognized his potential and shared his revolutionary ideals. A critical turning point occurs when William, instigated by Albert and driven by the deaths of corrupt nobles, orchestrates a high-stakes plan to kill his adopted family’s adversaries, symbolically reborn as William James Moriarty. As the series progresses, he grapples with the consequences of his actions and the moral dilemmas they entail, increasingly reflecting on the impact of his schemes on both allies and enemies. Notable arcs include his ongoing battle of wits against Sherlock Holmes, marking a significant clash of philosophies regarding justice.
Notable Relationships
Moriarty’s relationships are pivotal to his character development. His closest ally is Louis James Moriarty, his younger brother, who shares his ideals and assists him in his plans. Their bond is deepened by their shared traumatic past and their aspiration to achieve similar goals. In contrast, Sherlock Holmes acts as a rival and foil, representing a different moral perspective. Their encounters drive much of the series’ tension and intellectual parrying. Other important figures include Albert Moriarty, who serves as both mentor and catalyst for William’s actions, and Irene Adler, who offers insight into William’s darker motivations and the complexity of his character.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable scene occurs in Episode 8, where William confronts a corrupt noble, displaying his understated yet chillingly confident demeanor. His line, "True justice is not about punishment but making the world a better place," encapsulates his philosophy and resonates with fans seeking to understand his motives. Another impactful moment is in Chapter 8, where he skillfully manipulates a situation to expose a noble’s corruption without direct violence, showing his aversion to unnecessary bloodshed and emphasizing his meticulous planning.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
William James Moriarty has garnered substantial popularity, ranking as a fan favorite with over 6,111 member favorites on various anime platforms. The character is voiced by several actors, including Makoto Furukawa in the Japanese version and Zach Aguilar in the English dub, both of whom bring a distinct nuance to his character through their performances. The popularity of "Moriarty the Patriot" has led to discussions about the social commentary it provides, reflective of historical and contemporary class systems in the real world.
William James Moriarty stands out as an intricate character blending intellect, morality, and ambition, making him an enduring figure in anime and manga narratives. His journey underscores the complexities of justice, power, and the human condition, inviting viewers and readers alike to ponder the nature of morality in a stratified society.
