Series & First Appearance
Frau is a prominent character from the anime and manga series 07-Ghost, which premiered in the manga in 2005 and adapted into an anime series by Production I.G in 2009. The series is created by Yuki Amemiya and Yukino Ichihara. Frau first appears in Chapter 2 of the manga.
Profile at a Glance
Frau is a perverted Bishop and a member of the 07-Ghosts known by the name Zehel. He stands at an imposing height of 198 cm and weighs 84 kg, giving him a commanding physical presence. While his apparent age is often uncommented on, he is depicted as a young adult with significant power. His capabilities revolve around Zaiphon, a form of magical energy, and he is often seen with his cigarette and favorite spirit, Spirytus Crown Jewel gin.
Personality & Motivations
Frau is characterized by his brash and flamboyant demeanor, often making lewd jokes and teasing those around him. Despite his perverted nature, he harbors a deep sense of acceptance and responsibility for others, particularly towards Teito Klein, the series’ main protagonist. His teasing often serves as a form of encouragement, helping to lift Teito’s spirits after traumatic events. Notably, Teito has likened Frau to his late father due to the emotional support he provides. A quirky trait includes his insistence on mentoring Hakuren as his "porn disciple," showcasing his unusual moral compass and humorous side.
Frau’s motivations include connecting with others despite his past trauma, stemming from a childhood devoid of belief in God, paired with the sorrow of losing friends during his turbulent youth. His relationship with Bastian, his mentor, reflects an evolution from a rebellious youth to a character driven by loyalty and friendship.
Abilities / Powers
Frau possesses extraordinary powers in the realm of Zaiphon—the series’ form of ether-based magic, capable of manipulating elements and energies. His skills have earned him a reputation as a "child blessed with God’s strength," though he himself does not believe in God. His combat style often integrates humor, seemingly flippant but undeniably effective, and he often wields his abilities in tandem with his strong physical presence. Limitations arise from his emotional struggles: his traumatic past and ambivalence towards faith affect the consistency of his powers. As the series progresses, viewers see his abilities evolve, underscoring his complex character arc and emotional depth.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Frau’s story arc is pivotal from his introduction, showcasing his role in saving Teito’s life after he falls from a hawkzile. Throughout the series, he aids Teito in navigating his identity and purpose against the backdrop of their war-torn world. Central events include his accidental assumption of a mentoring role and the development of a deep bond with Teito, echoing themes of loss, redemption, and connection.
Frau’s past as an adopted child of the church sheds light on his internal conflicts, shaped by a historic crackdown on thieves where many of his friends perished. His character undergoes significant growth as he learns to reconcile his tumultuous history with his present responsibilities, ultimately pushing him toward a more profound understanding of companionship and sacrifice.
Notable Relationships
Frau shares a unique bond with Teito Klein, functioning as both a protector and a figure of paternal guidance. This relationship is central to both characters’ developments throughout the series. His dynamic with Hakuren manifests as an oddly comedic mentorship, while his relationship with Ayanami remains more mysterious and understated, potentially offering room for growth in future narrative arcs. Bastian, his mentor, holds substantial influence over his moral compass and life decisions, providing guidance in a life filled with loss.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable moment occurs in Chapter 10, where Frau, in a serious moment, expresses his thoughts on loyalty: "Even if you throw away your faith, I will always stand by your side." This line encapsulates his complex character—a blend of carefree humor and profound wisdom. Fans resonate with Frau’s guidance to Teito during moments of despair, reinforcing his role in Teito’s emotional journey.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Frau has been well-received among fans, reflected in his member favorites of 1,077. His characteristic cross-shaped tattoo on his back serves as a reminder of his tumultuous history and connection to the church. As for voice actors, in the Japanese version of the anime, Frau is voiced by Nobuhiko Okamoto, known for his vibrant portrayal of characters that balance humor and depth. Meanwhile, in the English adaptation, Chris Sabat lends his voice, further emphasizing the character’s comedic yet serious nature. His popularity has also been solidified in various fan polls, marking him as a beloved character within the series.
Frau stands as a multifaceted character whose humor, depth, and dynamic relationships serve to engage fans and enrich the narrative of 07-Ghost.
