Series & First Appearance
Solomon Goldsmith makes his debut in the anime Blood+, created by Production I.G and directed by Hiroshi Fukutomi. He first appears in Episode 10, titled "The Life of a Soldier."
Profile at a Glance
Solomon appears to be in his early to mid-20s, serving primarily as a chevalier to Diva. He is part of the Goldschmidt family, a prominent lineage with deep roots in France. His signature abilities stem from his chiropteran nature, allowing him enhanced abilities and combat skills, although he retains a strong moral compass that shapes his actions throughout the series.
Personality & Motivations
Solomon is characterized by his charming demeanor and gentle nature, often winning the affection of others with his kind smile. Initially motivated by a desire to end human conflict and suffering, his experiences throughout the series lead him to grapple with existential questions regarding humanity’s value. Despite his desire for peace, he develops a disdain for humans over time. An enduring quirk is his affinity for wearing white, a symbolic gesture of his commitment as Diva’s chevalier, which also reflects his initial purity of intentions.
Abilities / Powers
As a chevalier, Solomon possesses enhanced physical abilities, including agility, speed, and strength inherent to chiropterans. He can partially transform his body, notably his arm, into chiropteran form for combat. His glowing red eyes during serious moments quite literally signal his readiness for battle. While he struggles with fully embodying his chiropteran form, his partial transformations are effective enough to help in critical situations. However, his powers evolve throughout the series, showcasing the emotional toll they take on him as he navigates his dual identity of human and chiropteran.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Solomon’s character arc evolves significantly, starting from a hopeful medical professional to a complex figure entrenched in conflicts between humans and chiropterans. His introduction to Diva during the Russian Revolution marks a turning point as he opts to become a chevalier, intending to remove himself from the cycle of human conflict. In Episode 10, he intervenes during a life-and-death battle, resonating with fans as he declares his unwavering bond with Saya, hinting at a deeper emotional connection that transcends mere duty. However, after witnessing ongoing violence in both realms, his initial beliefs are challenged, culminating in a tragic end where he crystallizes—a poignant moment reflecting the futility of his aspirations. His democratic realization that both humanity and chiropterans are doomed to violence contributes significantly to the narrative’s bleak thematic elements.
Notable Relationships
Solomon’s relationships are pivotal to his character development. His most significant bond is with Saya, where he expresses unconditional support as her chevalier, promising to always protect her. His familial ties, especially to Amshel, present a duality where love conflicts with rivalry. This bond becomes strained through the latter parts of the story, emphasizing the tragic consequences of familial loyalty amidst chaos.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable scene occurs during Episode 10, when Solomon intervenes in a fight between Saya and James, stating, "This bond is stronger and sweeter than anything," which accentuates his commitment to Saya and sets the stage for his sacrificial nature. His emotional candor and willingness to place Saya’s safety above his own resonates with fans, reinforcing his character’s moral complexity.
In another iconic moment, as he kneels before Saya post-battle, he says, "If you ever need me, call my name, and I will be there." This vow of loyalty emphasizes the depth of his feelings and exposes the tragic futility of his choices.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Solomon Goldsmith is voiced by Hiroshi Kamiya in the Japanese version and Chris Sabat in the English dub. His character has garnered significant popularity, reflected in the Blood+ fandom, where he ranks among the top 300 most favored characters. His design, characterized by his striking white attire and charming features, has also led to comparisons with period aesthetics, setting him apart from typically darker characters within the same universe. Moreover, Solomon’s crystallization serves as a metaphor for the futility of war and the consequences of idealism, which enriches the narrative depth of Blood+.
Overall, Solomon Goldsmith’s blend of charm, complexity, and tragedy makes him a compelling character within the Blood+ series, offering rich material for fans to analyze and appreciate.
