Series & First Appearance
Schneizel el Britannia is a character from the anime/manga series Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion, created by Sunrise. He first appears in Code Geass Season 1, Episode 12, titled "Imperturbable." The character design was done by Clamp.
Profile at a Glance
At 27 years old during the first season and 28 in the second, Schneizel serves as the Second Prince of the Britannian Imperial Family and holds the title of Prime Minister of the Holy Britannian Empire. As a formidable strategist comparable to Lelouch, he possesses a charismatic charm that endears him to his subordinates while also displaying a cold ruthlessness in his ambitions for power.
Personality & Motivations
Schneizel is characterized by his cold detachment and practicality. Although he exhibits a level of disdain for unnecessary violence, he is not above using it to achieve his goals. His charisma and leadership inspire loyalty among his followers. A critical aspect of his personality is his ambition for the throne, which he pursues with calculated strategies, often manipulating events from behind the scenes. He believes in the necessity of hope among the populace, showing that he can be both a ruthless tactician and a seemingly caring leader.
Abilities / Powers
Schneizel is renowned for his exceptional skills in strategy, often showcasing his ability in complex situations, such as chess, where he could outmatch even Lelouch as a child. His leadership extends to various military and experimental projects, including the development of advanced Knightmare Frames like the Lancelot and Gawain. Although he lacks supernatural powers, his intellect and ability to anticipate opponents’ moves make him a formidable adversary. Throughout the series, he becomes more involved with Geass and its mechanics, signifying a growth in his understanding of the supernatural elements at play.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
One of Schneizel’s most pivotal arcs occurs during the second battle of Tokyo, where he leads Britannian forces against the Black Knights, demonstrating his strategic prowess. His role in attempting to negotiate peace with the Euro Universe, even when in a position of military strength, highlights an evolution in his understanding of power dynamics. Schneizel also plays a crucial role in the overarching narrative of Code Geass, particularly regarding the murder of Marianne vi Britannia and the eventual downfall of the Emperor, Charles zi Britannia. His ambitions culminate in conflict with Lelouch, ultimately leading to his demise at the hands of Suzaku in the manga Suzaku of the Counterattack, where he plots to use C.C.’s immortality code for his own gain.
Notable Relationships
Schneizel’s relationship with his family, particularly his father, the Emperor, is complex and fraught with ambition. He has a contentious but deeply strategic rivalry with Lelouch, which drives much of his characterization and plot. Cornelia and Clovis also represent different facets of his family dynamics, with Clovis hinting at Schneizel’s involvement in the dark legacy of the Britannian royal family. His relationship with Suzaku evolves from one of potential allyship to adversarial confrontation by the series’ conclusion.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of his memorable lines comes during his confrontation with Lelouch, where he states, "In order to take power, one must walk over the dead bodies of the weak." This line encapsulates his cold philosophy on rule and the sacrifices he believes are necessary for leadership. Additionally, the reveal of his hand in the murder of Marianne and the Emperor dramatically escalates the stakes in the narrative, cementing his role as a key antagonist.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Schneizel’s character has garnered a significant following, with 246 member favorites, reflecting his popularity among fans. Voiced by Junichi Suwabe in the Japanese version and Chris Sabat in the English dub, both actors brought a notable depth to his complex personality. He is often featured in fan discussions not only as an antagonist but also as a foil to Lelouch, making his intentions and methods a topic of analysis within the fan community. The depiction of his strategic capabilities is frequently highlighted in rankings of the best anime characters, showcasing his impact on the Code Geass franchise.
