Series & First Appearance
Violet Evergarden first appeared in the anime titled Violet Evergarden, which was released by Kyoto Animation in January 2018. The creator, Kana Akatsuki, penned the original light novel series, with the character design attributed to Akiko Takase. The series is noted for its stunning visuals and emotionally resonant storytelling.
Profile at a Glance
Violet Evergarden is a 14-year-old girl at the beginning of the series, who matures to around 18 by the end of the film adaptations. She serves as the protagonist, working as an Auto Memory Doll for the CH Postal Company. Her signature abilities include her exceptional skills in writing and understanding human emotions, which she learns through her interactions with clients, as well as her combat prowess as a former soldier.
Personality & Motivations
Violet is marked by her stoic demeanor and initial difficulty in understanding human emotions, a trait developed during her time as a child soldier. A key motivation driving her character is her desire to comprehend the meaning of the words "I love you," which were spoken to her by her mentor and commanding officer, Gilbert Bougainvillea. She shows immense dedication to her work and often immerses herself in her clients’ emotions to craft letters that convey their sentiments. These traits highlight her growing empathy as she struggles with her past and learns to connect with people.
Abilities / Powers
Violet possesses several standout skills stemming from her training as a soldier, including advanced combat abilities and agility. However, her most significant talent lies in her capacity for communication and emotional expression through writing, as an Auto Memory Doll. This role requires her to accurately reflect clients’ feelings and experiences in letters, requiring deep empathy and understanding. Over the course of the series, Violet evolves from a cold, emotionless figure into a compassionate individual, illustrating her growth in emotional intelligence.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Violet’s character arc is a journey of self-discovery and emotional healing. Early on, she grapples with her identity after the war and struggles to adapt to civilian life. Notable plot points include her acceptance of Gilbert’s death, which serves as a turning point in her development, prompting her to embrace her emotions and understand her past. Throughout the series, she crafts more than just letters; she writes her own narrative of healing, friendship, and love, culminating in the film adaptations where she seeks clarity regarding her feelings for Gilbert and her place in the world.
Notable Relationships
A defining relationship for Violet is with Gilbert Bougainvillea, her commanding officer and mentor, whose guidance shapes her view of the world. His declaration of love serves as a central motivator for her quest for understanding. Other significant relationships include her friendships with fellow Auto Memory Dolls like Cattleya Baudelaire and Iris Cannary, who help her navigate her new life and emotional complexities. The juxtaposition of her past relationships in the military with her present interactions adds depth to her character and narrative.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Violet’s most iconic moments occurs in Episode 10, titled "The Letter That Would Not Be Sent," where she learns the importance of letters as a means of expressing oneself. A memorable quote that encapsulates her journey is, “I don’t know what you all are feeling. But I do intend to feel it.” This line, emphasizing her determination to connect emotionally, resonates with fans and reflects her growth throughout the series.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Violet Evergarden was critically acclaimed, receiving several awards and recognitions, including the Tokyo Anime Award Festival for Anime of the Year. The series garnered a large following, with Violet appearing in popularity polls, often ranking highly among favorite female characters. In the Japanese version, Violet is voiced by Aoi Koga, while the English dub features the talents of Jill Harris. The series is also notable for its meticulous animation that brings emotional depth to storytelling, reflective of Kyoto Animation’s reputation for high-quality production.
Violet Evergarden stands out as a character who not only addresses themes of love and loss but also embodies the pursuit of self-understanding and resilience, making her a compelling figure in anime storytelling.
