Series & First Appearance
Ciel Phantomhive is a central character from the anime and manga series Black Butler (Kuroshitsuji), created by Yana Toboso. He first appears in Chapter 1 of the manga, published in 2006, and is introduced in the anime during Episode 1, which premiered in 2008.
Profile at a Glance
Ciel Phantomhive is a 12- to 13-year-old Earl of the Phantomhive family and serves as the Watchdog of the Queen. His affiliations include the Phantomhive Family, the Funtom Company, and a Faustian contract binding him to his demon butler, Sebastian Michaelis. Ciel’s signature abilities lie in his sharp intellect and business acumen, combined with the supernatural powers granted by his demon.
Personality & Motivations
Ciel possesses a mature and composed demeanor, often appearing aloof and distant from those around him. He prioritizes his responsibilities as the head of the Phantomhive family and the Funtom Company. Despite his business-savvy exterior, he struggles with emotional connections due to past traumas, particularly the loss of his parents during his birthday. He harbors a deep desire to protect those dear to him, especially his fiancée, Elizabeth Midford. Notably, Ciel has a penchant for tea and sweets, alongside a dislike for cats due to his asthma and allergies. His sarcastic exchanges with Sebastian are also a hallmark of his character.
Abilities / Powers
Ciel’s most significant ability is the contract with Sebastian Michaelis, which grants him supernatural assistance and combat prowess. The mark of the contract, a pentacle, is located in his right eye, typically concealed by an eyepatch. Although he is resourceful, Ciel lacks physical combat skills and relies on Sebastian in battle. His intellect allows him to strategize and manipulate situations to his favor. However, his reliance on Sebastian demonstrates his vulnerability, as he often finds himself in circumstances beyond his control.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Ciel’s personal narrative is marked by multiple significant arcs. His tragic backstory, culminating in the murder of his parents and his subsequent enslavement, serves as a catalyst for his character development. Key episodes include:
- The Circus Arc (Episodes 5-6): Ciel investigates a series of disappearances at a traveling circus, showcasing his resourcefulness and the growing bond with Sebastian.
- The Yorkshire Arc (Episodes 9-10): This arc highlights Ciel’s struggles with morality as he navigates the world of crime while retaining his principles.
- The Nobility Arc (Episodes 15-16): Ciel’s engagement to Elizabeth is tested, further developing his complex feelings and revealing vulnerabilities.
As the series progresses, Ciel demonstrates moments of personal growth, confronting his past and the consequences of his choices, pushing the boundaries of his relationship with Sebastian.
Notable Relationships
- Sebastian Michaelis: Ciel’s demon butler, who assists him in his quests and symbolizes the duality of Ciel’s desires for power and human connection.
- Elizabeth Midford: Ciel’s cousin and fiancée, representing a semblance of normal life and emotional support amidst his dark quest for revenge.
- Vincent and Rachel Phantomhive: Ciel’s deceased parents, whose tragic deaths shape his motivations and emotional struggles.
- Grell Sutcliff and Undertaker: These characters serve as antagonists at various points, challenging Ciel both directly and indirectly.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Ciel’s most memorable lines occurs in Episode 20, where he asserts, "I’ve made a contract with a demon. I will have my revenge." This quote encapsulates his relentless pursuit of vengeance, drawing fans to his complex character direction. A striking visual moment is during the Phantomhive Manor Fire, where his resolve to protect his family unfolds against the inferno, solidifying his leadership role while exposing his internal turmoil.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Ciel Phantomhive has gained significant popularity within the fandom, ranking 11,973 in member favorites on various platforms. The character has been voiced by Maaya Sakamoto in the Japanese version, while the English dub features Brian Dobson, both bringing distinct interpretations that resonate with the audience. Additionally, the dichotomy of Ciel’s character—innocent child and calculating earl—mirrors traditional coming-of-age narratives, making him relatable to many viewers.
Ciel’s design features dark navy blue hair and mismatched eyes, embodying both elegance and the ambiguity of his character. This aesthetic serves to enhance his role as both the protagonist and an antihero within the series.
