Series & First Appearance
Alicia Florence (アリシア・フローレンス) first appeared in the anime series Aria, which was created by Kozue Amano. The series debuted in 2005, with Alicia’s character being integral from the outset. The adaptation was produced by Hal Film Maker, renowned for its tranquil and visually stunning animation that captures the essence of the fictional city of Neo-Venezia.
Profile at a Glance
Alicia is 19 years old at the series’ beginning and serves as a Prima, the highest rank among undines. She is a member of Aria Company and is celebrated as one of the Three Water Fairies of Neo-Venezia, nicknamed "Snow White." Her exceptional rowing style distinguishes her, alongside her innate ability to appreciate every aspect of life.
Personality & Motivations
Alicia is characterized by her relaxed and easy-going demeanor. She possesses a playful nature, often teasing her childhood friend Akira, which adds a layer of warmth to her personality. Alicia’s driving motivation revolves around her relentless pursuit of enjoying life and making others happy, effortlessly embodying the spirit of Neo-Venezia. A notable quirk is her frequent use of the phrase "ara ara," coupled with a giggle, which contributes to her charming persona.
Abilities / Powers
As a Prima, Alicia is skilled in the art of gondola rowing, showcasing a graceful and fluid style that symbolizes her depth of experience and training. Her ability to communicate with customers and understand their desires plays a vital role in her success. Importantly, Alicia’s power does not come from conventional combat; instead, her effectiveness lies in her ability to create beautiful experiences through her undining. Her major limitation is the emotional weight of being the top undine, as she often feels the pressure to maintain her high standards and the expectations of others.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Alicia’s journey in Aria is largely about growth through her interactions with both her customers and fellow undines. Key plot points revolve around her mentorship of Akari Mizunashi, who aspires to become a Prima like Alicia. Their relationship serves as a foundational aspect of Alicia’s character development, showcasing a transition from being a youthful and carefree undine to embracing responsibilities of leadership and teaching. Episodes that particularly highlight her growth include interactions that emphasize the importance of perseverance, friendship, and commitment to one’s craft, embodying life’s tranquil yet meaningful moments.
Notable Relationships
Alicia has several significant relationships that shape her narrative. Primarily, her bond with Akari Mizunashi is central; she serves as a mentor and a source of inspiration. Additionally, her friendship with Akira demonstrates a more playful and familiar side of Alicia, showcasing both camaraderie and the humorous challenges that come with close friendship. Alicia’s relationship with her customers also plays an essential role, further underlining her influence and care as an undine.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
Alicia’s iconic moments often stem from her gentle wisdom and light-hearted interactions. One particularly impactful scene occurs in Episode 5 of the anime, where she reassures Akari during a moment of doubt, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the essence of their work rather than merely achieving success. A memorable quote that encapsulates her philosophy comes when she says, "Life is a gift, and every moment should be cherished." This line resonates with fans as it encapsulates the core themes of Aria.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Alicia Florence has become a beloved character within the fandom, often ranking high in popularity polls with over 631 favorites. Voiced by Akiko Yajima in the Japanese version and by Marie-d’Ange in the English dub, Alicia’s representation remains consistent across adaptations. Behind the scenes, her character design and personality were crafted to evoke a sense of calm and serenity, reflecting the rich atmosphere of Neo-Venezia. The use of watery motifs in her design further emphasizes her role as an undine, intertwining her aesthetics with the thematic essence of the series.
This character spotlight provides a comprehensive overview of Alicia Florence, illustrating her importance in Aria as a symbol of tranquility, mentorship, and enjoyment in the complexities of life. As the narrative unfolds, Alicia continues to resonate with viewers, embodying the delicate balance between ambition and appreciation amidst the picturesque setting of Neo-Venezia.
