Series & First Appearance
Undertaker is a character from the anime and manga series Black Butler (Kuroshitsuji), created by Yana Toboso. He first appears in Chapter 35 of the manga and makes his anime debut in Episode 19. The series has gained renowned attention for its unique blend of dark themes and supernatural elements.
Profile at a Glance
While his exact age remains ambiguous, Undertaker appears to be an ageless figure, embodying the characteristics of a Shinigami (death God). He holds a unique role as a supporting character who occasionally assists Ciel Phantomhive, the series protagonist, while embodying the archetypal role of an enigmatic figure. Affiliated with the Shinigami Organization, he is known for wielding a signature scythe and utilizing unconventional weapons such as Japanese grave markers.
Personality & Motivations
Undertaker is characterized by his eccentric and whimsical personality, often punctuating his speech with laughter and extravagant gestures. He finds amusement in Ciel’s company and is intrigued by the macabre, as evidenced by his habit of spending time in coffins and his fondness for jokes. Despite his playful demeanor, he exhibits a deep-seated disdain for authority, particularly for the Queen of England, which reflects his anti-establishment sentiments. His primary motivation appears to revolve around boredom and curiosity, particularly since his retirement from Shinigami duties, leading him to experiment with reanimating the dead.
Abilities / Powers
As a Shinigami, Undertaker possesses several notable abilities. His signature weapon is a scythe, symbolic of his role as a harbinger of death. Apart from conventional weaponry, he can manipulate souls, and during the manga’s Ship Arc, he is seen employing Japanese grave markers (sotoba) as weapons in combat. His capacity to create zombies indicates a level of necromancy, stemming from his boredom and desire to experiment. However, his powers and influence seem limited by his retirement status, suggesting that he holds back from fully engaging in his Shinigami responsibilities.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Undertaker takes on various roles throughout pivotal story arcs. His debut comes during the "Phantomhive Hall" arc, where he first encounters Ciel and offers cryptic yet valuable information. A key point in his narrative is in Chapter 60, where Grell Sutcliff confirms Undertaker’s Shinigami status, revealing his boredom post-retirement and his experimentation on the reanimation of corpses. Moreover, in Chapter 82, it is disclosed that he was once a principal, intertwining his past with the current narrative and enriching his character background. His interactions during the Ship Arc further deepen his connection with Ciel, even showcasing the first glimpse of his eyes, which hints at a more serious side hidden beneath his playful exterior.
Notable Relationships
One of the most important relationships in Undertaker’s story is with Ciel Phantomhive. Their dynamic is characterized by a mix of respect and intrigue, with Undertaker often serving as a somewhat unreliable source of knowledge. He has a contentious relationship with William T. Spears, another Shinigami, who displays a level of respect for him despite their differences. Furthermore, he has connections to Claudia P., hinting at more complex narratives within the Shinigami community.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
In Chapter 60, Undertaker’s chilling revelation of being a Shinigami is a pivotal moment, as it frames his character within the broader context of the series’ supernatural elements. His line, “I’d love to hear a joke!” encapsulates his eccentric nature while serving as a thematic link between humor and death. Another memorable scene occurs during the Ship Arc, where his interaction with Ciel highlights his whimsical yet foreboding presence; this duality captivates fans, making him a dynamically layered character.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Undertaker has become a fan favorite, consistently ranking high in popularity polls, with 4,806 member favorites noted. The character has been voiced by Nobuhiko Okamoto in the Japanese version, known for bringing a depth of mystery and whimsy to Undertaker’s persona. In the English adaptation, the character is voiced by the talented Matthew Mercer, whose performance captures the essence of Undertaker’s mischievous and darkly enchanting character. His design prominently features macabre elements, including a crooked top hat and long hair obscuring his face, a nod to the classic Grim Reaper aesthetic.
Through a combination of playful eccentricity and a deep connection to the themes of life, death, and curiosity, Undertaker stands out as a uniquely captivating character in the Black Butler series, warranting both analysis and appreciation from fans and newcomers alike.
