Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Introduction

Anime has captured the hearts of millions worldwide, and among the most beloved titles of all time, Fullmetal Alchemist stands tall as one of the most iconic and influential series. With its compelling characters, intricate plot, and deep philosophical themes, Fullmetal Alchemist has earned a special place in the hearts of anime fans across the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned anime enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of Japanese animation, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is a must-watch.

In this article, we’ll explore the anime’s characters, how to watch Fullmetal Alchemist for free, and dive into the gripping story that has captivated audiences since its release. From understanding the central characters to learning about the best ways to experience the Fullmetal Alchemist anime without breaking the bank, we’ve got it all covered.

Characters of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

One of the most outstanding features of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is its diverse and well-developed cast of characters. Each character plays a vital role in the storyline, contributing to the anime’s rich narrative tapestry. Below, we’ll explore some of the most significant characters in the series.

Edward Elric – The Determined Alchemist

Edward Elric, the protagonist of Fullmetal Alchemist, is a young but highly skilled alchemist. With his fiery determination and a strong sense of justice, Edward embarks on a quest to find the Philosopher’s Stone in order to restore his and his brother’s bodies. His journey is one of self-discovery, and throughout the series, viewers see him struggle with loss, guilt, and the consequences of his actions.

Edward’s defining traits include his intelligence, pride, and unwavering will to protect those he loves. Though he may be physically smaller than many of his adversaries (due to the loss of his arm and leg in a failed alchemical experiment), his courage and resourcefulness make him a formidable force. His complex emotional journey and determination to atone for past mistakes make him an incredibly relatable and human character.

Alphonse Elric – The Soul in Armor

Alphonse Elric, Edward’s younger brother, serves as both a moral anchor and emotional support for the series. After a failed alchemical attempt to resurrect their mother, Al’s body is lost, and his soul is bound to a suit of armor. Al’s deep love for his brother and his wish to reclaim his physical body provide much of the emotional heart of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood.

Though Al lacks the physical vulnerability that Edward has, his situation presents him with existential questions about the nature of the soul, humanity, and sacrifice. His pure heart and kindness often contrast with the darker themes of the series, offering a poignant juxtaposition to the darker characters and events.

Roy Mustang – The Flame Alchemist

Roy Mustang, also known as the “Flame Alchemist,” is a charismatic and ambitious State Alchemist. As a high-ranking officer in the military, he aims to become the next Führer of Amestris in order to reform the corrupt system from within. Mustang is a master of fire-based alchemy and has a sharp intellect, making him a powerful ally to Edward and Alphonse throughout their journey.

What sets Mustang apart from other characters is his combination of charisma, ambition, and underlying compassion. While he may initially appear to be cold and calculating, his loyalty to his friends and desire to protect Amestris and its people make him an incredibly complex and fascinating character.

Lust, Envy, Gluttony, and the Homunculi

The Homunculi are a group of powerful, human-like beings created from the philosopher’s stone and serve as the main antagonists in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. Each Homunculus represents one of the seven deadly sins and serves as a symbolic embodiment of the moral themes the series explores.

• Lust is a cunning and manipulative character who represents the sin of lust.
• Envy is a shape-shifter, representing jealousy and hatred.
• Gluttony is a grotesque, insatiable being with an overwhelming desire to consume everything in sight.

These Homunculi, along with the others, contribute to the escalating tension and intrigue in the story, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.

Other Notable Characters

The world of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is populated by a wide variety of memorable characters, from the kind-hearted Winry Rockbell (Edward and Alphonse’s childhood friend) to the enigmatic philosopher Izumi Curtis, who taught the Elric brothers alchemy. Each character contributes to the overall themes of the anime, making it a well-rounded and immersive experience.

The vast array of characters in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood provides multiple layers to the story, enriching the narrative and making the series a standout in the world of anime.

Story of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

The story of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is both rich and complex, combining elements of action, drama, and philosophical exploration. It is set in a world where alchemy is a highly advanced science, and its practitioners are known as alchemists. The series follows the journey of two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who commit a taboo act of alchemy to try and bring their mother back from the dead, only to suffer tragic consequences.

The Tragic Beginning

The series opens with a flashback to the brothers’ childhood in the small town of Resembool. Their mother, Trisha, dies, and the brothers decide to use alchemy to bring her back to life. This forbidden act—attempting to transmute a human soul—results in catastrophe. Edward loses his left leg, and Alphonse loses his entire body. In a desperate attempt to save his brother, Edward sacrifices his right arm to bind Alphonse’s soul to a suit of armor.

The brothers’ quest for redemption begins as they set out to find the Philosopher’s Stone, a powerful alchemical artifact that could restore their bodies. Along the way, they encounter a vast array of characters, including military officers, rogue alchemists, and mysterious figures who play key roles in the larger narrative.

The Military and the Homunculi

The anime introduces the militaristic state of Amestris, where the brothers’ quest intertwines with the political and military landscape. Edward and Alphonse become embroiled in the machinations of the State Military, including Colonel Roy Mustang and his allies, as they uncover the dark secrets of the government and its connections to the Homunculi—mysterious beings who are tied to the Philosopher’s Stone.

The Homunculi, each representing a deadly sin, are powerful beings that serve as the primary antagonists in the series. They are part of a larger, malevolent force working to manipulate the state’s leaders and engage in an alchemical ritual that could change the fate of the world.