Series & First Appearance
Prussia appears in Hetalia: Axis Powers, created by Hidekaz Himaruya. His debut is in Chapter 2 of the manga (published in 2006) and his character was also introduced in the anime adaptation during the "Axis Powers" segment in Episode 5, titled "The Meeting."
Profile at a Glance
Prussia, also known as Gilbert Beilschmidt, is a 20-year-old character who embodies the now-dissolved Kingdom of Prussia. He serves primarily as a supporting character within the series, often showcasing his bold and brash personality. His signature traits include platinum blonde hair, deep violet-red eyes, and left-handedness, symbolizing his unique and sometimes rebellious nature.
Personality & Motivations
Prussia is described as extremely loyal yet incredibly arrogant, often viewing himself as superior to others. His driving goal appears to be a fierce determination to prove himself stronger and more "awesome," reflecting a soldier’s mindset. Notable quirks include his catchphrase "Ore-sama," which reinforces his self-confidence and superiority complex. Despite his tough exterior, he displays a strong attachment to his younger brother Germany and has moments of somberness, particularly regarding the fate of his homeland and relationships with others, like Hungary.
Abilities / Powers
In terms of abilities, Prussia showcases remarkable military prowess and strategic thinking, emphasizing his past as a powerful nation. Although he possesses no supernatural powers, his combat style is characterized by aggressive tactics and fierce loyalty towards his allies. Limitations arise from his brash attitude, occasionally leading to misjudgments affecting his effectiveness in strategic situations.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Prussia’s narrative evolves alongside his complex history as a nation. Key story arcs include his relationships with Germany and Hungary, which elucidate the emotional burdens he carries post-dissolution of Prussia. His interactions often showcase an underlying desire for acknowledgment and validation from his peers, particularly reflected in his efforts to maintain a strong bond with Germany after their home country’s downfall. Another notable plot point is his evolving dynamic with Russia; initially fearful of him, Prussia grows increasingly confident, paralleling Germany’s rise as a stable nation — a reflection of his character development and emotional growth.
Notable Relationships
- Germany (Franz-Germania): Prussia’s affectionate yet teasing relationship with his younger brother Germany is central to his character. He often refers to Germany as "West" and enjoys taking on a big brother role despite being frequently disorganized.
- Hungary: Prussia’s relationship with Hungary is marked by a competitive childhood filled with teasing, leading to a strained yet complex friendship characterized by past grievances and mutual respect.
- Frederick II: Referred to as "Old Man Fritz," Frederick II serves as a significant mentor figure in Prussia’s life, motivating him to strive for greatness and nurturing a deep sense of loyalty.
- Italy: He exhibits a fondness for Italy, referring to him as “Italy-chan,” and enjoys sharing quirky moments, which add a playful element to his character.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable moment occurs in Episode 5 of the anime, where Prussia humorously declares his superiority to the other nations, solidifying his identity as "awesome" and leaving a lasting impact on fans through his comedic bravado. His catchphrase "Ore-sama" consistently resonates with audiences, symbolizing his charismatic yet arrogant personality, making him a favorite among viewers.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
- Voice Actors: In the Japanese version, Prussia is voiced by Noriaki Sugiyama, while in the English dub, he is voiced by Matthew Mercer, both contributing to his dynamic personality.
- Popularity: Prussia ranks high in member favorites, boasting over 1,188 favorites, highlighting his appeal among the Hetalia fanbase.
- Cultural References: Prussia’s character is steeped in historical context, reflecting real-world events, such as the dissolution of his nation post-World War II. His interactions and rivalry with nations like Russia parody historic regional tensions, adding layers of humor to the series.
Prussia remains a memorable figure within Hetalia, known for his brashness, humor, and underlying complexity as he navigates relationships that highlight the effects of history on national identities.
