The acclaimed anime series Violet Evergarden first aired in 2018, swiftly attracting an enthusiastic following for its poignant narrative and stunning visual artistry. Though comprised of a mere 13 episodes, the show’s critical and popular success soon spawned both a side-story film in 2019 and a sequel movie in 2020.
Adapted from a Japanese light novel authored by Kana Akatsuki and illustrated by Akiko Takase, Violet Evergarden centers on the emotional journey of its titular protagonist.
However, the complex love story between Violet and the character Major Gilbert Bougainvillea forms the show’s controversial core. This complex relationship has provoked impassioned discussion and differing perspectives among fans.
While brief in length compared to many anime franchises, Violet Evergarden has clearly resonated powerfully with audiences. Through its bittersweet tale and aesthetic beauty, the series continues to find new admirers even years after its television premiere. Both spin-off films attest to its enduring appeal.
Examining the Complex Relationship Between Violet and Major Gilbert in ‘Violet Evergarden’
The popular anime Violet Evergarden sparks debate due to the complex bond between the young female protagonist Violet and her former military superior, Major Gilbert.
Violet’s exact age is unclear since she was an orphan, but hints in the story imply she is around 14 years old. Meanwhile, Gilbert is 29 years old – creating a concerning age gap of 15 years.
Their relationship originates from Violet’s time as Gilbert’s soldier in the military. He was initially cold towards her, even referring to the girl as his “tool” for battle. However, over time, a deeper connection seemed to form.
In particular, Violet latches onto Gilbert after he tells her he loves her, though she struggles to understand the complex emotions behind such words.
When Gilbert goes missing in action, Violet devotes herself to becoming an Auto Memory Doll to comprehend the meaning of “I love you” – further hinting at stronger feelings for the Major.
Some fans argue their bond seems inappropriate given the large age difference and questionable origins. Others suggest it shows Violet overcoming her military past to embrace her own humanity. Debates continue around whether it comes across as an uneasy imbalance of power or a moving story of Violet gaining emotional independence.
The Reason Why Violet Evergarden Anime So Controversial?
The wide age gap between the young female protagonist Violet and her former military superior Major Gilbert has sparked heated debate within the Violet Evergarden fandom.
Violet’s murky backstory paints her as an orphan turned child soldier, robbed of a normal childhood. Her age is estimated to be around 14 years old when she meets the 29-year-old Gilbert.
Their initial dynamic stems from Gilbert’s cold utilization of Violet as a wartime “tool.” However, a cryptic profession of love from Gilbert to Violet indicates the formation of an inappropriate bond, given the vast difference in life experience and power dynamics at play.
When Gilbert disappears, Violet’s devotion to understanding love continues the worrying implications of their relationship.
Many viewers feel disturbed and troubled at the thought of a vulnerable 14-year-old child pining after a grown man 15 years her senior. They condemn this questionable storyline decision as an unsettling, even predatory, portrayal of affection between the central duo.
What ‘Violet Evergarden’ Anime Is All About?
The emotional core of Violet Evergarden lies in the complex dynamic between the young, orphaned Violet and her guardian Major Gilbert. Violet is enlisted in the military as a child soldier where the 29-year-old Gilbert mentors her in warfare.
Though their relationship begins stiffly professional, Gilbert ultimately confesses cryptic “I love you” parting words to Violet as he disappears amidst the battle.
Initially utilized as a mere “tool” for fighting, Violet’s backstory implies a lack of nurturing parental figures outside of Gilbert himself. Thus, when she transitions into civilian life as an Auto Memory Doll, Violet fervently seeks an understanding of love to connect with Gilbert’s final sentiments towards her.
As Violet processes her emotions, she comes to terms with reciprocating Gilbert’s feelings, made clear by his return in the Evergarden film. While the exact nature of their bond remains undefinable, some viewers feel disturbed by the power imbalance of a young teen clinging to an adult guardian 15 years her senior.
Others highlight Violet overcoming childhood trauma to develop moral independence. Yet their wide age gap paired with Gilbert’s mysterious profession of love continues prompting discussion around ethical storytelling.
The core relationship in Violet Evergarden thereby encapsulates broader debates regarding the portrayal of complex bonds between vulnerable youths and their caretakers within popular media.
