Series & First Appearance
Riza Hawkeye makes her debut in the manga Fullmetal Alchemist, created by Hiromu Arakawa, in chapter 2 (2001). She also appears in the anime adaptation produced by Bones, beginning with episode 1, titled "Struggle of the Fool" (2003). Her character design is consistent across both media, emphasizing her strong demeanor and military background.
Profile at a Glance
Riza Hawkeye is typically depicted in her late twenties, serving as a highly skilled Major in the Amestrian military and the trusted subordinate of Colonel Roy Mustang. Renowned for her exceptional marksmanship and strategic abilities, she specializes in firearms, particularly sniper rifles. Riza is an integral member of Mustang’s team, often acting as both his personal assistant and protector.
Personality & Motivations
Riza is characterized by her calm and composed demeanor, often serving as the voice of reason among her peers. She is fiercely loyal, especially to Mustang, whom she refers to as her "most precious person." This loyalty drives her actions as she strives to keep him safe and guide him through emotional turmoil. Riza has a stern but caring nature, evident in her interactions with both humans and her dog, Black Hayate, whom she raises with strict discipline. Notably, she maintains a no-nonsense attitude and a penchant for blunt reprimands when ill-disciplined behavior arises.
Abilities / Powers
Riza’s standout skill is her extraordinary marksmanship, allowing her to execute precise shots from long distances with her sniper rifle. She possesses excellent tactical skills, which she employs to make critical decisions in the heat of battle. Although she has no supernatural powers, her training and discipline make her a formidable presence in combat scenarios. Despite her strengths, Riza is not without vulnerabilities; her emotional attachments can cloud her judgment, particularly in high-stress situations concerning Mustang.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Riza’s character arc is deeply intertwined with Roy Mustang’s journey. Throughout the series, she exhibits unwavering support during his pursuit of justice against the corrupt military hierarchy. In significant moments, such as the struggles against the homunculi, Riza confronts her own vulnerabilities, particularly highlighted in the manga when she nearly succumbs to despair believing Mustang has been killed. Her growth culminates as she learns to balance her dedication to duty with her personal feelings and sense of self-preservation.
Notable Relationships
Riza shares a profound bond with Roy Mustang, marked by mutual respect and a complicated emotional depth. Their relationship evolves throughout the series, reflecting reliance on one another in both professional and personal contexts. She also shares camaraderie with other members of Mustang’s team, including Maes Hughes, whose death significantly impacts her emotionally. Furthermore, her relationship with her dog, Black Hayate, introduces a softer side to her otherwise austere persona.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable moment occurs in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (episode 10), where Riza demonstrates her marksmanship by saving Mustang during a crucial battle. This scene underscores her critical role as Mustang’s protector and showcases her unwavering loyalty. Another iconic line reflects her stoic nature: “The military is just one of the many things – you ‘but still’ trust him?” (episode 15). This quote highlights her internal struggle and commitment to her values amid chaos.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Riza Hawkeye has become a beloved character in the Fullmetal Alchemist community, often ranking among the top favorites in various user polls, including MyAnimeList, where she garners significant fan attention. Her character is voiced by Houko Kuwashima in the Japanese version, while Lia Sargent lends her voice in the English adaptation. Aside from her military prowess, Riza’s character reflects themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the complexity of emotional bonds, making her a standout figure in the franchise. Arakawa has noted the inspiration behind her strong female characters comes from her desire to create empowering narratives.
Through these multifaceted attributes, Riza Hawkeye remains a compelling character, continuously influencing fans and the overall narrative of Fullmetal Alchemist.
