Series & First Appearance
Cheshire Cat is a character from the anime/manga series Pandora Hearts, created by Jun Mochizuki. He first appears in Chapter 4 of the manga, which debuted in 2006, and has since become a significant figure in the series due to his complex background and connections to key narrative elements.
Profile at a Glance
Cheshire Cat has an ambiguous age, appearing as a youthful figure but being, in essence, a remnant from 100 years ago. He serves primarily as an enigmatic ally to the protagonist, Oz Vessalius, but his true nature oscillates between complexities of allyship and ulterior motives. He does not require a contractor to exist outside the Abyss, which distinguishes him from other chains. His signature feature, a bell around his neck, symbolizes the "truth" of the memories he protects.
Personality & Motivations
Cheshire Cat is characterized by a whimsical demeanor, often employing riddles and cryptic remarks that reflect his origins from a memory-based dimension. He possesses a playful yet cunning personality, making him a multifaceted figure within the story. His primary motivation is to protect Alice’s abandoned memories, driven by a desire to shield her from the pain that recalling them could bring. This protective instinct reveals a deep connection to Alice, hinting at feelings of loyalty and care that transcend mere servitude.
Abilities / Powers
Cheshire Cat exhibits a range of unique abilities tied to his status as a chain. He can manipulate dimensions and has a strong affinity for illusion and trickery. One notable skill is his ability to appear and disappear at will, which enhances his mysterious persona. Despite this, he also exhibits a protective nature in combat scenarios. Additionally, Cheshire has a complex relationship with his eyes; originally possessed by Break, their removal by Vincent Nightray adds layers to his backstory. His powers evolve as he interacts more with Alice’s memories, revealing new depths to both his abilities and motivations.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Throughout Pandora Hearts, Cheshire Cat’s character grows significantly, particularly as viewers learn about his connection to Alice. Early on, he appears to be a mere servant of the Abyss but gradually reveals his true intent as a protector of Alice’s lost memories. This duality is highlighted during pivotal moments when he must choose between aiding others and fulfilling his duty to Alice. Notable arcs include his interactions with the Will of the Abyss and the tension surrounding his previous relationship with Vincent and Break that ultimately shape his motivations. His climactic decisions often force Oz and his allies to confront their understanding of memories and the past.
Notable Relationships
Cheshire Cat maintains several key relationships that significantly impact his narrative. His bond with Alice is the most profound, as his actions are motivated by a desire to shield her from emotional harm. Break serves as a mentor figure and, at times, a link to Cheshire’s once-shared reality, complicating their interactions with memories and truths. Additionally, his rivalry with Vincent Nightray adds layers of tension to the story, showcasing the past traumas that influence their present confrontations.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Cheshire’s most iconic moments occurs during a confrontation with the Will of the Abyss when he asserts, “I am the Cheshire Cat. Those who seek the truth will have to pay the price.” This highlights the theme of truth and memory at the core of Pandora Hearts. Another memorable line comes when he says, “We are all just a part of someone else’s dream,” underscoring his role within the crafted memories surrounding Alice.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Cheshire Cat is popular among fans of Pandora Hearts, ranking high in character popularity polls, with over 246 member favorites noted. His design draws heavily from the whimsical depictions found in Lewis Carroll’s "Alice in Wonderland," paralleling the character “Kitty” from its sequel, "Through the Looking Glass." In the anime adaptation, he is voiced by Nobuhiko Okamoto in the Japanese version, while the English dub features a performance by Matt Mercer, both adding layers of depth to the character’s quirky yet enigmatic persona. His unique visual style, featuring vibrant colors and a characteristic grin, reinforces the whimsical yet dark themes pervasive in the series.
Cheshire Cat remains a captivating figure within the lore of Pandora Hearts, as his journey from a simple chain to a protector of memory embodies the deeper themes of identity, loss, and the necessity of confronting one’s past.
