Series & First Appearance
Gordon Agrippa (ゴードン・アグリッパ) is a character from the manga and anime series Black Clover, created by Yūki Tabata. Gordon first appears in Chapter 96 of the manga, which was published in February 2016, and in Episode 59 of the anime, which aired in September 2018.
Profile at a Glance
Gordon Agrippa is a teenager, typically depicted as being around 15 years old, and serves as a member of the Black Bull squad within the Clover Kingdom’s Magic Knights. Known for his affinity with curse magic, Gordon utilizes unique abilities to manipulate curses and provide support during battles, making him a distinctive ally among his peers.
Personality & Motivations
Gordon is characterized by his shy and introverted nature, which contrasts sharply with the boisterous personalities of many other Black Bulls members. Despite his quiet demeanor, he has a deep-seated desire for friendship and acceptance. Gordon is often seen speaking in a soft tone and has an interest in curses, which he believes can also bring about positive changes. His catchphrase, “Curses are like friends,” reflects his unique perspective on the supernatural.
Abilities / Powers
Gordon’s primary magical ability is curse magic, which he uses to both hurt opponents and provide protective support for his allies. His talents include the ability to create curses that can weaken adversaries and improve the resilience of his comrades. As he grows through the series, Gordon learns to control his magic more effectively, showcasing stronger spells such as the Curse generator. His powers have noticeable limitations, including his emotional struggles with confidence and his tendency to shy away from confrontation, often leading to his support role in battles.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Gordon’s character development is notably explored during the "Wano Country" arc, where he begins to emerge from his shell as he bonds with fellow squad members. Significant moments, like his participation in the fight against the Dark Triad and his gradual acceptance of his role in the squad, mark important stages in his growth. This journey ultimately helps Gordon gain confidence, leading him to embrace his abilities more fully.
Notable Relationships
Gordon shares strong bonds with various members of the Black Bulls, particularly with members such as Asta and Noelle Silva. These friendships help Gordon to confront his insecurities and build a sense of belonging within the squad. His growing camaraderie with his teammates plays a key role in his narrative arc, showcasing a theme of acceptance and friendship.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Gordon’s memorable moments occurs during the Final Selection arc when he showcases his curse magic, providing crucial support to Asta in battle (Chapter 133). This scene encapsulates the importance of his abilities within the Black Bulls and highlights his gradual acceptance of friendship. Another notable line is when he states, “Curses are like friends; they can be helpful," reflecting his unique outlook on life and magic, resonating deeply with fans and adding depth to his character.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Gordon Agrippa has garnered a favorable reception within the Black Clover fan community, ranking among the top characters in several popularity polls, with 251 members citing him as a favorite. His character is voiced by the Japanese actor Nobuhiko Okamoto, while the English dub features actor Chris Sabat. Gordon’s design and characterization reflect a deeper exploration of themes like loneliness and acceptance, common in many series.
Additionally, Gordon’s affiliation with curses and magic ties into broader themes often found in shonen narratives, such as personal growth, the nature of friendships, and overcoming one’s fears. His character design features a unique combination of dark colors, often associated with his affinity for curses, which visually represents his struggles and the dark undertones of his abilities.
Through these elements, Gordon Agrippa stands out as a complex character within the tapestry of Black Clover, resonating with audiences who appreciate his unique blend of shyness, hidden strength, and the ever-relevant quest for acceptance.
