Series & First Appearance
Bondrewd is a key character from the anime and manga series Made in Abyss, created by Akihito Tsukushi. He is introduced in the manga starting from Chapter 42 and appeared in the anime’s second season, Made in Abyss: The Golden City of the Scorching Sun, in the second episode.
Profile at a Glance
Bondrewd, a male character, is a legendary white whistle delver and researcher dedicated to uncovering the mysteries of the Abyss. He is primarily an antagonist, known for his unethical experimentation on children to fuel his pursuits. His signature abilities include a deep knowledge of the Abyss, access to advanced technology, and manipulation of the Curse of the Abyss, which he studies through horrific experiments.
Personality & Motivations
Bondrewd is characterized as highly intelligent yet morally corrupt, driven by an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and the secrets of the Abyss. He exhibits a complex personality where he can be both charming and diabolical; he presents himself as a benevolent figure to the children he recruits while simultaneously using them for cruel experiments. His motivations stem primarily from a scientific obsession to understand the Abyss, pushing ethical boundaries for what he deems the greater good—often blurring the lines between right and wrong. Although he shows some level of care for his subjects, his actions are overwhelmingly cruel, revealing a chilling disregard for human life when it conflicts with his research goals.
Abilities / Powers
Bondrewd possesses several remarkable abilities due to his extensive experience and advanced technologies. Key skills include:
- Expert in Abyssal Lore: Bondrewd has amassed a vast knowledge of the Abyss, allowing him to navigate and manipulate its dangers.
- Curse Manipulation: His experiments revolve around the infamous Curse of the Abyss, showcasing his ability to understand and harness its effects on living beings.
- Technological Mastery: He uses advanced machinery and devices to conduct his experiments, such as his unique "autonomous resuscitation" capabilities, which allow him to survive under extreme conditions.
- Combat Proficiency: Although not primarily a combatant, he can defend himself with formidable technology and experience.
However, limitations include his reliance on unethical practices to gather subjects for experimentation, which inevitably leads to moral and ethical consequences.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Bondrewd’s character arc is pivotal to several key plot points:
- The Establishment of Idofront: He builds a major base in the depths of the 5th Layer, known as Idofront, demonstrating his ambition and resourcefulness. This facility becomes a central location for his experiments and ultimately a threat to the main characters.
- Experiments on Children: Bondrewd’s cruel experiments on children—specifically Nanachi and Mitty—serve as a crucial narrative point, revealing his moral bankruptcy and setting the stage for the emotional conflict faced by the protagonists.
- Confrontation with Protagonists: His ultimate clash with Riko, Reg, Nanachi, and others highlights not only his malevolent nature but also his relentless pursuit of knowledge, regardless of the costs.
The culmination of these arcs showcases Bondrewd’s impact on the story, influencing the narrative’s trajectory and the emotional stakes for the main characters.
Notable Relationships
- Nanachi and Mitty: The most significant relationships in Bondrewd’s narrative involve Nanachi and Mitty, the two children he cruelly experiments on. His interaction with them reveals his dual nature as both a scientific figure and a villain.
- Riko and Reg: He represents a direct opposition to these protagonists, embodying the darker side of exploration and knowledge in the Abyss. Their ultimate confrontation brings to light the moral dilemmas surrounding their quest.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
- The Offer to Join Idofront: In one of his darkest moments, Bondrewd offers to take children into Idofront under the guise of exploration. This moment encapsulates his manipulative nature and sets the tone for the trauma the children endure.
- Chilling Dialogue: “If you want to understand the Abyss, you must accept the risks” (Chapter 43). This quote captures his ruthless pragmatism and central philosophy that justifies his experiments, resonating with fans for its sinister implications.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
- Voice Actors: In the Japanese version, Bondrewd is voiced by Shōtarō Morikubo. In the English dub, he is portrayed by Christopher Sabat.
- Popularity: Bondrewd has garnered a significant fanbase, reflected in his member favorites tally of 4,602 on various anime platforms, illustrating his appeal despite—or perhaps because of—his villainous nature.
- Cultural References: His character explores themes of ethics in science and the consequences of unchecked ambition, resonating with contemporary discussions on morality in research.
Bondrewd’s complex characterization in Made in Abyss serves as a dark reflection of humanity’s insatiable curiosity, making him one of the most memorable figures in the series.
