The Morality of Black Butler, A Video Essay {Kuroshitsuji}

A video essay analyzing the morality in the anime and manga series Black Butler (Kuroshitsuji)? It's more likely than you think.

[@ellajazz4861]

I feel like a huge part in why Ciel is the way he is , is because he’s practically been raised by Sebastian for the past few years. Sebastian is pretty much Ciels only parental figure. A parental figure who is literally a demon with no morals. And who does as he’s told so even when Sebastian occasionally questions Ciel he’ll just go along with it anyways

[@happilyevernever4289]

Yep. Sebastian always sabotages Ciel's positive growth if he foresees that it can threaten the contract one way or another.

[@puddimilk1351]

Imagine an AU where he was saved by an Angel instead I’d like to think his kind nature would’ve been nurtured and he’d live a really happy life. But that’s not this story

[@ZeraphineOfficial]

There is one problem with that. Yes, Sebastian is a demon with no moral standards (technically). However, manners are another matter entirely. Sebastian takes up the role of a distinguished gentleman, so he might teach Ciel to also be a distinguished gentleman. See, sebastian wants to see Ciel succeed so he can devour his soul once his mission is complete, but Ciel would seldom get very far by being a complete piece of shit. So, Sebastian raises Ciel to be cold and cunning, but also have proper manners and be dignified. There are times throughout the series if you remember, where sebastian outright declines Ciel's request unless given a contract-bound order. The very first episode is an excellent example. Ciel wants something sweet to eat, and Sebastian outright declines his request saying "you don't want to spoil your appetite for you dinner". Sebastian while a demon with no real morals, does in fact raise ciel well, in that he might become a proper gentleman. Stopping him from striking his fiance, encouraging him to dance, etc.

[@spaniard_flower2539]

My take on Ciel? A good person who is in denial that he is a good person, someone once described him as emotionless, but I find he feels emotions, but no longer knows how to express his emotions. He's a victim of circumstance and is capable of kindness, decency, and ethics, which leaks out... occasionally, but he is determined to play the part of the cold, vengeful, character most know him as.

[@PocketLeaves]

I absolutely love this take on Ciel's character!

[@emmamelton6542]

I think one of the biggest aspects of Ciel’s character that makes him so easily seen as “good” is the concept of innocence and a loss on innocence the audience is constantly presented with. Ciel at times, is still obviously an immature child, which is comical or cute, but when he acts homicidal or irrational in such a morally wrong manner, the audience is almost forced to re-examine what made him the way he is. he went through some of the worst trauma imaginable and at the end of the day, we’re all human enough to sympathize with him and excuse his actions to a certain extent.

[@TomatoAddict]

I think it’s in ciels nature to be compassionate, period. He may want to deny it or ignore it, but it’s a core part of who he is. If we take a look at Vince and the older brother, they have a certain coldness to them. A “I don’t care what happens to others as long as I accomplish what I want” attitude. An example in the twins’ contrasting nature is when they’re in the carriage with Vince and he asks them what they would do as earl. Ciel gives a very calculated answer while ours hesitates, worried about the people. Another is at the end of the school arc when our ciel saves one of the boys and undertaker eyes him, saying this phantomhive is different from the rest in his nature. When he took the name of ciel, he tried to take up the same attitude but his nature still shines through. There’s a million examples. At the end of the school arc when he is buying his servants gifts, saving wolf, going to check on the orphanage, pushing soma and Agni away to protect them, etc. he tries to cover up his compassion with reasons, but the truth is he can’t help but care deep down. That’s who he is.

[@PocketLeaves]

I LOVE this read on his character! He cares a lot, and has a big heart! And we see him regret not helping others, like in the Jack the Ripper case. He's cold and calculated when he feels like he has to be, but at the end of the day, he cares a lot about people.

[@MH107-]

Also end of the circus arc when he buys the orange from that poor girl

[@mutiyangpilingbabae9207]

I agree with you but it still hurts because Sebastian would consume his soul in the end 😢

[@everybodywonu]

as a literature student ciel’s character and morality makes my gears turnnnn I agree he’s morally grey, he’s not afraid to use more cruel methods and deception to get what he wants and he uses people to his advantage. As you said, he’s doing it to survive and with his traumatic experiences it gives the readers the feeling of sympathy, allowing us to feel bad for him despite all the heinous stuff he’s done because its an understanding to to his actions. (Not excusable, but justifiable) If Ciel didn’t have this tragic backstory, you would definitely think he’s absolutely bonkers (he still really needs a therapist I don’t think seb can pass as one) and would totally think he’s evil 100%. But with justification and the empathy/sympathy of us readers, he becomes a more morally grey person. As for the question on whether he actually wants to die… i think it’s more of the fact that he has a strong sense of responsibility with his role as the queen’s guard dog and with his loyalty he will see it to the end of his role (due to his family that has been lost doing the same job) It’s carrying on tradition as much as possible what with the original mansion holding all the memories and well traditions being burnt to ashes with it. He’s still a child after all and he holds his family dear to him as we can see in the sorta presequel part I’m sorry I wrote an entire essay here I could go on thinking about ciel’s character for hours he’s interesting

[@sunnysong9122]

You know, I always wondered about Grell's life. She is such fangirl, sweet but psiho, fun girl. She also seems to get attached to people till the point of obsesion very easily. She honesty seems like a fun person to hang out with. We know that in this universe Grim Reapers are suidical victims which really makes me wonder about her life

[@PocketLeaves]

There's a theory that she committed due to struggles of being a transwomen, but other than that, I haven't seen much speculation on her life as a human. But it'd be so cool to expand on her life!

[@sunnysong9122]

@@PocketLeaves Yea I also think that's the case I just think it would be fun to see her life while she was alive

[@satapon4129]

I have been waiting for literal years just to know Grell's life story ;o; Oh god like at least 12 years...

[@leeannvan1422]

@@PocketLeaves I never knew grell was trans. I always thought she was a he

[@tovarishcheleonora8542]

@@leeannvan1422 If my memory not cheats, then Yana Toboso did state this in one of the artbooks.

[@mikkaribbe6200]

Undertaker: Moral? What kind of concept is that?

[@Jadedrock]

Great Video! Personally, I think the one of the only good people in the series is Lizzie. Despite all the trauma she must have faced, she tries her best to make everyone happy. I think Ciel is a lot like the villains in the series. He's just doing what he thinks is best given the circumstances. Most of the villains (except for a few) have justified reasons for their killings and what they have done. They're all just trying to survive using the cards they've been dealt

[@PocketLeaves]

Lizzy is really good. She's got some really selfish thought patterns. Like when she admitted to herself that it would have been disappointing if she knew from the get go that O!Ciel was the only one who survived, and that she had a preference instead of just being happy someone was alive. But I don't think that's a good indicator of her moral compass. Especially since she's aware of the fact that it's a messed up thought.

[@pearlwhite1799]

The Black Butler anime genuinely holds such a special place in my heart. I've never read the manga, but as a 12-13 year old I used to absolutely love this anime, especially Ciel. I related so much to him and his backstory, and I eventually realized that just like ciel, I too, had c-ptsd. (Black Butler literally helped me get my c-ptsd diagnosis lol) Before I realized this though, during the book of circus anime arc, I actually kinda agreed with ciel burning the circus down with all the kids inside. I know this sounds horrible, and it is horrible, but as another deeply traumatized individual the same age as ciel I could almost agree with the decision he made (during his PTSD attack). I also just couldn't see the other kids going through such traumatic events surviving afterwards. The thing is, I eventually got therapy (ironically thanks to the BB anime show) and have gotten better. I now realize it is possible to in some way overcome some of your past. Meanwhile, Ciel clearly doesn't have a therapist and has a demon that can follow his orders to kill whoever he wants. I can't blame him for making so many mistakes and taking out his anger and frustrations out on others and doing morally apprehensible things. Honestly it kinda scares me that Ciel's character is so realistic. At that age and dealing with my past, I was in such a dark place that I nearly agreed with all the awful things that he did, which many me reevaluate what kind of person I was turning into and made me seek therapy. If I was in the black Butler world, I probably would have turned out the same as ciel... I'm starting to read the manga and I will still root for Ciel. I don't think he's an evil character although his actions are horrible, he just needs a lot of therapy. Sorry this got long, I agreed and really liked your video essay and wanted to add my thoughts!

[@PocketLeaves]

I really appreciate your thoughts. That really sucks that Ciel was so relatable for you, but I'm glad you had the resources to get help. I also agree that he's not evil, he just needs therapy.

[@ElectraTechna55]

Omg I wish I found this earlier. You really put into words how I've been feeling about this story for years and why I identify with it so deeply. Morally grey, ends justifying the means. Also Ceil and Sebastian later on start mirroring each other. Which makes sense. Sebastian learns what Ceil needs and Ceil is at an age of forming identity

[@nopotleftbehind1590]

Ciel does have regrets tbh, he's a very selfish person but he's selfish to survive. Not only did we see Seb going batshit in the Emerald Witch arc, viewing his trauma as weakness, but Ciel is forcing himself to live as his brother and therefore acts in a lot of ways I think he'd envision rciel acting. Sebastian's intentional triggering and cultivation of his innocence into something with a much more corrupt outer shell is SUCH a unique dynamic. He's evil', but not with the intention of hurting others - only doing so when he views it necessary. I remember him telling snake to not care about others' opinions in regard to his appearance, because being unique is something to be proud of. Something he could've easily gone without saying; I've also noticed he's far more lenient with his servants than most would be, as a lot of manors were designed with the intention of the host never having to see the help, but Ciel doesn't mind-- even buying them gifts, providing them with an education. Controversial opinion? I love Sebastian's corruption of Ciel, and the subtle respect I think is gradually building throughout the manga - this series isn't afraid to delve deep into horrid topics like r/pe, p/dophilia, murder, blasphemy etc, and I adore it. Not many series that have been able to tug at my heartstrings for just being so OUT there. Ciel and Sebastian's relationship is one so horrible that I just can't get enough of it. I predict Sebastian will either eat Ciel so his soul can be with his brother's, or sacrifice himself so Ciel can continue on due to his utter devotion he's developed. Though personally my hope is a big f*ck you to seb and just offing himself to become a soulless reaper, i know that's not going to happen lmao

[@PocketLeaves]

I hadn't considered the thought of Ciel offing himself. In the live action movie, Shori (Ciel) went to sacrifice herself for the sake of others. And Sebastian refused to help, and went as far as to say if Ciel is doing something to cause his death, Sebastian isn't obligated to save Ciel. I'm not sure how canon the live action should be or if Yana had any hind in it's writing and production. But it's an interesting tidbit. I have seen people speculate that Undertaker will do something that prevents Sebastian from eating O!Ciel's soul and fulfilling their contract. Ngl, it would be funny if Sebastian went through all that only to miss his meal. But I'm not sure how this story will end. You're so right about Ciel being kind towards his servants. I see his servants less as hired help and more like a found family. And I imagine Ciel feels a similar type of fondness for them. I mean they live together, see each other every day. And if I were Ciel living in that big house essentially by myself, I would want to see and be around my servants because that'd get very lonely.

[@nopotleftbehind1590]

@@PocketLeaves ooo i never took that into account either; and right? Iirc Finnian in the Manga is much closer to Ciel, as if Ciel had gravitated towards him as a second brother. Their stories are a bit similar, after all, given Finny's captivity and torment

[@PocketLeaves]

@@nopotleftbehind1590 Yes!! In the manga they watch TV together (only mentioned in chapter 3 or 4) and during Ciel's PTSD attack in tje Green Witch arc, Finny is the only person he seemed to feel safe with

[@nopotleftbehind1590]

@@PocketLeaves i wish the anime would've portrayed that more effectively, because despite being a fan of its darker aspects, those moments between them were so sweet

[@tabula.rasa.]

Is that controversial? That's the most interesting aspect of their relationship to me. I absolutely want to see Ciel get worse and worse as a person under the influence of Sebastian.

[@eyethefluff7289]

Ciel is, as much as he tries to deny, intricately human. That arouses, (imo a devil without morals to bind him) in every way possible, Sebastian. Sebastian to me, in a very literal sense, is a predator. Which could very well translates to vulnerable children changing their ways after being groomed if I want to make real world allegory.

[@PocketLeaves]

Oooh, I feel like you're could be spot on with that interpretation!

[@madmouse1016]

It's hard- it's really hard to judge a character who you know has been through a lot. You can say you don't condone their actions, but also understand why they did it or why they acted such a way. We know why Ciel is the way he is, but we still are especially disturbed by some of the choices he makes, and one of the main reasons for that is because he's just a child. How do you judge a child? He isn't killing people for fun or getting rid of people he deems useless, he's doing a job- a job that is extremely stressful and even makes him have panic attacks at time. His PTSD flairs up, along with his asthma in stressful familiar situations, and it becomes hard to judge him because you put yourself in his shoes and say "I'd probably be the same way ..." And really- its just sad to think about ...

[@existingtm]

And, ooh! William is interesting to me in that he's fairly different in terms of moral alignment compared to other characters. From what we've seen of him, he's a very by-the-book, regulation-following type of person. He feels like more of a neutral character and seems to embody the intermediate function of a grim reaper almost perfectly. We see some cracks in this throughout the series (like how he has no qualms about revealing his nature to humans). I hope we get to see more of him, (SPOILER) especially since he showed up at the end of the latest chapter. I want to see more cracks in the face he shows to others. What's he like when things get completely out of control?

[@user-mm5rp1zy2y]

Will is "lawful neutral"

[@existingtm]

I agree with that other person who said Lizzie is one of the only good characters in the series (in a moral sense if we divide them into good, bad, and gray). In general, she seems to be somewhere between good and gray. I love her complexities! I think her and Soma are very similar characters and right now we're seeing them face some internal darkness because of recent events. It will be interesting to see if they overcome their internal demons and remain heroes or if they'll turn down a darker path. I think in relation, Edward and Agni show(ed) a more selfless goodness. (R.I.P. Agni 😔)

[@mody3ntar583]

One of the most interesting aspects about Ceil's personality is that it has been greatly influenced by Sebastian, and what I mean is Sebastian actively pushing Ceil into the role of the boss who has to make survival decisions, which is all part of Sebastian's plan "Seasoning the soul of Ceil". The only time Ceil showed a little interest in pursuing a happy life, Sebas ditched him till he rewinded as the dependant heartless noble.

[@MicukoFelton]

Not true, at least not in the manga. Sebastian never ditched him. He even looks sad sometimes when Ciel won't allow himself to be happy.

[@mody3ntar583]

@@MicukoFelton I haven't read the manga, but it is true in the anime, I don't know what parts are canon tho.

[@archslayers]

I’ve been a black butler fan since I was young- I’m older now and realize the themes touched upon in the series. Awesome video! This series is my favorite and still seeing people talk about it is such a breath of fresh air. Keep up the good work!

[@PocketLeaves]

Thank you!!! I've also been into the series since I was pretty young. So I've had plenty of time to sit with the themes and my thoughts. Glad that people are interested in what I have to say about the series!

[@archslayers]

@@PocketLeaves Definitely a theme I’ve come to look more into is the historical aspect of it. I find it so interesting that we see so many different sides of the same story. From a history student’s standpoint I love the accuracies in the UK and even overseas in Bard’s backstory. I’m excited to see what you talk about next with BB!!!

[@dakotaroot_8816]

I would love for you to make more videos about Black Butler, there aren't that many on KZbin because the fandom isn't super huge anymore and I enjoy your video format and how you describe things. Would love one on Grelle and Undertaker, my two absolute favorite characters. Liked and subbed!

[@greenteadreams5182]

Ciel purposely keeps others at arm's length because he knows that he will die soon and doesn't want them to be hurt by that. Even though he has acted ruthlessly, he has also gone out of his way to connect the baron's orphanage to patrons, dig a grave for a nameless working girl, given Sieghilde, his servants and Soma, a purpose and reason to live, and put Lizzy's life before his own. Sometimes he does copy the behavior of the demon that raised him for the last 3 years, but at his core, Ciel is a good person, or at least that's my interpretation.

[@limarest761]

More BB essays please!

[@PocketLeaves]

You've got it!! I'd love to do more!

[@Grey_di.ant_420]

Honestly, this makes me really want to deep dive into the characters as well. Honestly, i didn't really like Ciel when I first started Black Butler. He was bratty, snarky, annoying. Also the anime didn't do the best job representing him imo at least not in the first season. My absolute favorite Black Butler media to watch is Book of Circus or Book of the Atlantic because both really expand on his past and trauma and why he acts the way he does. He's so cutthroat because if he wasn't he would be dead. Simple as that. When he does what he has to when it comes to surviving, it almost feels powerful. Others with trauma can relate to him in that way and I think that's one of the many reasons he's so beloved by the fandom When it comes to someone like Grell however, we don't actually know anything of her past or motivations besides the knowledge that Grim Reapers are suicide victims. (This also makes me extremely curious as to why someone like William got there but thats besides the point). I think it's likely it could've been because of the struggles of being a trans woman oh so many years ago when women themselves didn't even have basic rights. Grell doesn't seem too bothered by the fact that she had to get to where she is by suicide, in fact she jokes about it in the red butler arc, constantly saying she needs to "pay for her sins with her life" (we'll come back to this) but humor could be a coping mechanism for her as it commonly is for many people. (Also the fact being a grim reaper is technically a punishment but they still have to go to school to become one??? what do they do if you fail??). I also think in addition to transphobia she may have had to deal with abuse and possible SA, giving a likely explanation to the fact she comes off so hypersexual. That also tends to be a coping mechanism for SA victims. And as for abuse, many who experience physical abuse either don't ever want to be touched and are easily triggered or become masochists in a way. Some are conditioned to be so used to it, it doesn't even register as abuse. Now all of this is just speculation from a psych major but I think it's so interesting to consider the possibilities. Also a lot of people dealing with trauma or mental illness (which i believe grell may be) become violent. This doesn't completely explain her bloodlust, to be frank I think she just likes killing people sometimes. But I think it could be how she started enjoying it; getting revenge on those who hurt her. Then it probably snowballed into extreme bloodlust and pure sadism in some cases. She may even be considered a sociopath by some, but I don't think thats the case, at least not completely. I didn't even realize how long this was, maybe i should make my own video lmao. That was mostly me ranting about theories i have of one of my favorite characters from my favorite anime/manga i hope you enjoyed if you read this far. And if you did, thank you

[@PocketLeaves]

Oooh, I had never thought about WHY Grell is the way she is. Those are really interesting thoughts! I think most of us assume she ended up as a reaper do to her struggles with being trans, but I haven't seen many people look deeper than that.

[@Mailed-Knight]

Other than unequal pay, what basic rights did woman not have in the Victoria era? And please provide evidence, because I just looked it up and was met with a bunch of opinion pieces and post-modernist activism. I even found an article that said men could beat their wives, that's not true at all. Divorce wasn't common during the Victorian Era but when it did happen it was because of adultery, wife beating or rape. In the Victorian Era Woman were expected to obey their husbands and Men were expected to protect their wives, any deviations from that and you seen as a lesser human. It went both ways.

[@PocketLeaves]

@@Mailed-Knight @Grim Knight Why do you say that's not true? I'll be honest, I'm more familiar with lack of rights in the US at that time since that's the history I learned the most in school. But generally women were seen as fragile and not taken seriously. They lost the rights to their wages once they got married which would make leaving an abusive or unhealthy marriage near impossible. I imagine abuse back then is treated a lot like it is today. Yes it's looked down, which is why it's usually done behind closed doors. And there's more types of abuse than just physical. If you just google if women had rights during the victorian era, a wikipedia article on it is one of the first results. Wikipedia is actually a pretty good resource for surface level research.

[@Mailed-Knight]

@@PocketLeaves I'm not familiar with 19th century America so I can't speak to that but I can assure what's true in one country isn't true in another. I just skimmed through a Wikipedia article about Victorian Era woman and it says cooking was the woman's job and physical activity was seen as dangerous for woman, both of these are verifiably false, in 19th century Britian cooking was seen as the man's job and physical activity was encouraged as it was widely understood that being under/over weight was unhealthy... Also unhealthy woman were body shamed so there was that. Though again weak skinny men were also shamed so again, it almost always went both ways in 19th century Britian. Also I live in Victoria, Australia so a lot my results are about my home, so I don't know if it's the same article. On another note your right, abuse comes in many forms and Victorian men couldn't divorce their wives unless he could prove she committed adultery, that's the only reason he was allowed to get a divorce.

[@yolandabustos3294]

I want to read the black butler manga so bad and do know so of the major spoilers and that the story gets really dark and in the arcs that get so good since the manga ciel and Sebastian are so interesting characters and they both do what ever it takes to get watch ever they want even if it means killing innocent people

[@PocketLeaves]

I highly suggest reading it!!!! You can find all the chapters online, and in the reddit for Black Butler, someone posts the new chapters as the come out, so once you get caught up, it's easy to stay caught up if you can't buy the chapters!

[@yolandabustos3294]

@@PocketLeaves ya I want to buy the whole manga collection since I do love yana toboso work and way how she draws the characters and dark bloody scene and so detailed and her art style is changing so much looking so pretty and dark at the same time and yana toboso she has been working on the mobile game with Tokyo Disney and the animated company aniplex with did the 3 season of black butler, book of murder, book of the Atlantic the game is about Disney villains cross wuss Harry Potter and it’s kind of like the western college arc and some of the characters in the game called Disney twisted wonderland which was released back in 2020 march and is known available to play in the united state and Canada on January 20 this year look like the characters for black black and yana toboso she is in charged fir the characters design and story directed and I would be surprised if she took inspiration from here own character to design the Disney villains dorms leaders and their group since the characters that do resembles Sebastian, ciel/ madam red, prince soma, snake, joker and also the 4 dorm leaders from the western college arc and the 7 Disney villains that they used are the queen of hearts, scar, Úrsula, jefare, evil queen, hades and maleficent and this year during anime expo the game had a panel with one of the Japanese voice actors and thir was also a both that showed all of the students and their villains inspired and how everyone was so interested in their design in their own dorm uniform and how everyone is saying that yana toboso did such a incredible job design each characters so unique and she also posted a message on her social that she written how she wasn’t expecting how popular the game was going to be from inside outside of Japan and the she is exited for what coming up next for the game cause the game has one more chapter felt with is about maleficent but it hasn’t come out yet but she still excited for the future of the game and it going to get a anime adaptation their already trailer for all of the villains and each dorm and it’s going to be the first anime going to Disney+ which is so excited on how they will adaptation the game in anime format

[@PocketLeaves]

Ooh that's exciting!! I didn't know they were making an anime for the game! I've been seeing a lot about Twisted Wonderland! I also find it interesting how some of the fanart that I've seen is similar to Black Butler fan art from way back. If I had the space on my phone, I would definitely have already gotten into the game. Yana Toboso is REALLY good at character designs!

[@yolandabustos3294]

@@PocketLeaves ya she is such a incredible artist and design for the characters and do think this might be a second career for her and she could be known for these two incredible work being for the incredible horror/ bloody manga black butler and the incredible design for the most successful game in Japan Disney twisted wonderland and I think the reason people started to love twisted wonderland is cause of black butler or being a big fan of yana toboso incredible art and all of the illustrations art for Disney twisted wonderland was all done by her and did such a good artist with so much detail especially the art with all of the dorm leaders coming out of the coffins and the images at the bottom of each coffin having the image of which Disney villains they are all inspired by

[@Steindaemon]

I think I mainly root for ciel because the persons he murders (mainly) disgust me more especially with the guy who made prostetic limbs from child bones, then ciel coldharded killing them. I would not say that Ciel is a protagonist but I think that we feel pity for him and that is the reason why he appears likeable.

[@PocketLeaves]

That's fair! He does tend to only kill and be cruel to people who either deserve it, or are fairly gross themselves. (or committing serious crimes in the case of the circus troop). It's kind of like the show Dexter, where the main guy is a serial killer, but he only kills other killers (aside from one exception: a grown man who was a child predator, but honestly valid of Dexter to kill him) Why do you say Ciel isn't a protagonist? All that means is that he's a main character. Ciel and Sebastian definitely share that main character role through out the series, so I'd consider him a protagonist. Ciel is totally a character that's supposed to stir up empathy in the readers. There's just so much to pity with him!

[@Steindaemon]

@@PocketLeaves I said that Ciel is not a protagonist because I always thought that “protagonist” means “the good guy” (what is wrong). Ciel, with Sebastian, definitely is the maincharacter. I just tried to explain that I don´t think that he is the typicall Disney like hero without any flaws.

[@PocketLeaves]

@@Steindaemon that's fair!! I know it's a common misconception. But I've seen an argument in the past for Ciel not being the main character. So I wasn't sure what you meant here!

[@Mahlak_Mriuani_Anatman]

​​@@Steindaemonhis is what happens when you don't do research Protagonists and antagonist is thousands of year old concepts bruh

[@adrianamariehenriquezespin3301]

I wanna write so much my thoughts about Ciel and his character (He is my favorite character ever, including books, anime, manga etc. So I analyze him a lot, because I consider him the best character of his manga and one of the best shonen protagonist), but I don't know English very well so I have to keep it for myself 😭😭😭

[@PocketLeaves]

There's a special place in my heart for Ciel, so I get it. I would love to hear your thoughts though, even if you feel your English isn't super great.

[@hypermoyashi130]

This was really well done!! Nice work!!

[@PocketLeaves]

Thank you so much!!!! I'm really excited about making video essays, so this was a neat experience!

[@artificialgrass3959]

My curtains have the same pattern as your armchair. Crazy~. Excellent video essay and editing- keep up the hard work! I'd love to see more content like this :)

[@PocketLeaves]

Ooh, that's so fun! Thank you!!!

[@arthursalari5444]

Black Butler content yay! And qualitative content too!

[@stormywolfhowls]

Wow a black butler fan in 2022 who does videos other than edits!

[@Lisa-mu6kf]

man i love black butler content

[@happilyevernever4289]

5:51 but what he did can't be undone. So he is still kinda a grey character as of now, who has the potential to be a good person if he is allowed or he is brave enough to allow himself to do better. Actions speak quite a lot about one's character afterall.

[@charitymonzon5373]

This video is a masterpiece 👏👏

[@PocketLeaves]

Thank you so much!!!

[@user-ze7hp2jf5x]

I dont understand the authors concept of "innocence" regarding Ciel, to me he seems anything but innocent given he orders Sebastian to get revenge, which is the sin of wrath from a religious aspect or from the law he clearly commits third degree which was a crime even for the setting of the timeline the story is in. can someone explain to me how Ciel is "innocent" or in what way(btw adults during Victorian England era were considered to be individuals between 13-24)?

[@PocketLeaves]

You're totally fair in your take on Ciel! I'm aware that during the Victorian era, people were considered adults much earlier than they are today, however that doesn't change the fact that we now know the human brain is still in development and maturing until around 25. I don't think we're supposed to see Ciel as innocent, however if you were to truly judge his actions and decisions, I feel that it's important to consider his circumstances and the heightened emotional state he is in during many of his most damning decisions. Ciel isn't innocent, by any means. But I don't think he's a bad person, or a truly evil character. That's where the morally grey comes in. He's not bad, but you can't really call him good either. Like you said, he does commit some serious crime.

[@user-ze7hp2jf5x]

@@PocketLeaves fair, but even so we do hold people of the age of 18 and sometimes even 16 nowdays accountable for their actions, as far as a lawful excuse for innocence according that applied back than as much as it is now would be on the grounds of insanity. I mean no court would accept excuses like "circumstance" or "emotional state" and neither will the jury be allowed to hear such appeals to emotion, the only excuse a court will accept is being deemed insane(but it will still get you into an asylum tho). Though I really dont know the framework in which Sebastian, a demon that feasts on the innocent as I recall finds Ciel all that appetizing, like there is not much to corrupt in him given that by the time Ciel forms a pact with Sebastian he is already beyond all repair. like he calls Ciel's soul "pure" but in what aspect?

[@PocketLeaves]

I hear you! I'm not saying Ciel is innocent. And he should be held accountable for his actions. However, I am making the argument that he is not a morally corrupt character, at least not entirely. I think we're talking about two different things here. Morally grey characters can and should be held accountable for their actions, but we as the reader will often times have more understanding for them, and these characters will also have a lot of good actions and intentions as well as their more negative ones. I'm also not sure what Sebastian means when he calls Ciel pure. It could be a flavor thing, a comment on Ciel's emotions, not saying pure in the moral sense, but pure in the density sense meaning high concentration of Ciel's rage and emotions. It could also just be a comment on Ciel's age. People often times equate a young age with pureness.

[@mystique9130]

@@PocketLeaves In Sebastian's POV, Ciel's soul is far from corrupted, the reason why he still kept him alive even to this day cause he's quote on quote "Seasoning" him with corruption to the point of no return. As I continue to read the Manga, Ciel is slowly becoming more worst as his Grey character slowly turns to Black, just the way Sebastian wanted. At least that's what I thought in my opinion.

[@yYSilverFoxYy]

I think Ciel is pure in the sense that Undertaker also pointed out when Ciel ran back to save Harcourt from the zombies. There is actually selfless kindness in him. When Agni died, his first thought was that they should have stayed away from him and all the danger he gets into. When Undertaker wanted to kill Sebastian, Ciel actually jumped in front of the demon. That wasn’t even logical, he couldn’t provide any protection against a death scythe, it just shows that there is a deep, instinctive goodness in Ciel, that he needs to act against each time he commits horrible things. That must be the rare flavor in Ciel’s soul that Sebastian talks about. When most people go down a dark path, they’ll eventually begin to justify it, overwrite their inner definitions of right and wrong. Ciel accepts that his actions are horrible, thus in a way he stays pure in his soul.

[@lifeofbekahh]

black butler is my favorite anime, j Michael Tatum is awesome 😍

[@MaverickX578]

Who’s hyped for black butler next year

[@PocketLeaves]

I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw the trailer! I'm very excited for it!

[@bluechains1997]

Well, thank you for motivating me to do my English essay on Black Butler , passion before academic topics lmao

[@PocketLeaves]

You're so valid for that. I've also written papers on anime for school!

[@bluechains1997]

@@PocketLeaves thank you for this video, it was really interesting!

[@sadpiano8179]

Yess ilove black butler and your channel❤

[@candice9754]

it's been a long time since i last read black butler, i'm surprised the story isn't finished yet

[@PocketLeaves]

You know what, I'm also surprised it's still going. Although I do think the story is in the final stages. Not sure how long it'll take to wrap it up though.

[@eatthelemon6666]

Off topic but you’re rlly pretty!!

[@PocketLeaves]

Thank you!!

[@aniiahie]

0:37 dont call me out like that man

[@user-tr6ub4yi3j]

Me ( stop reading my favourite book and founding this video in KZbin) : it was really good and interesting, and you know makes sense to me, my mother died 2 year ago and my father is in another place for his work so im living with grandparents and it effected me ( even though they are good people its made me so different from that time i was living with my both parents I've changed so much ) so its obvious the our main character who was totally a kid when lost both parents ( and a twin brother in tragedy) and almost after that there was just one person with him in most of time a literally evil himself

[@PocketLeaves]

I'm glad you found this interesting! I'm sorry to hear about your mom. Grief is hard, and changes like that will effect anyone.

[@TomatoAddict]

I love this video! ciel certainly is a 3 dimensional, no, 10th dimensional character. Thank you for your analysis

[@SARAH13NINI]

I swear to god words can't describe how much i hate that demon

[@PocketLeaves]

You're so valid. There's a lot to hate.

[@RandomGirl785]

I usually like morally grey characters

[@bokumo7063]

I think Ciel is a psychopath, which makes his young age morally irrelevant. Often in manga, Ciel has a bizarre smile on his face when there is nothing to smile about. The psychological term is 'inappropriate affect.' But these are my favorite panels by Toboso, they are so strange and unique. Anything Ciel does that is arguably 'good' is only on orders from the Queen to maintain her power. He murdered Doll for no reason. Did Ciel become a psychopath because of the tragedy in his life? Or does psychopathy run in the Phantomhive genes? Madame Red was a psychopath. Most likely, the Phantomhives stole and murdered for their money. So Ciel may have inherited the Hannibal Lecter gene from his father, along with his duties as Enforcer for the brutal Colonizer Queen Victoria.

[@kathrinlindern2697]

He murdered Doll because she had formed the resolution to kill him and attempted to. Ciel was fully aware that he had kinda just done to her what the people he is seeking his own revenge on did to him - albeit Doll actively participated in her family's evil schemes before Ciel killed them. So he did have two reasons - one, his own safety and two, it being potentially merciful for her because I don't think Ciel thinks that his life is very worth living.

[@Just_niaxx]

Ciel isn’t evil or a bad guy, he’s a kid. After everything he’s been through at 10 years old is crazy and awful. Do I like the things he’s done no, but I still love his character and reading more into the manga it’s sad how “our” Ciel was just a back up spare piece whenever “real” Ciel was there. He just wanted to be a toy maker with his older brother and be like him in a way. It’s more sad how the family besides his parents saw him as a failure and not a big successor as his brother was going to be if he lived. Ciel took over everything his brother was going to do. It’s sad and awful but I love yet dislike Ciel’s character at the same time.

[@QuintrellDemary]

I sub just found your channel

[@veryspookyJeIIy]

Sorry to bother you! I noticed the other newer video was missing did it get taken down?

[@PocketLeaves]

The other members of the group where upset I made the video, and feared it could interfere with Ciel Star's trail. It became a whole big thing, and I had to take it down.

[@veryspookyJeIIy]

@@PocketLeaves That's completely understandable!

[@trishna982]

Can someone tell me where can I read it😢

[@PocketLeaves]

There is a subreddit for Black Butler, and people post the chapters every month there. But if you're not caught up, most of the manga should be online on manga reading websites. I know mangaclash appears to have all of the chapters. Otherwise, you'll have to buy the volumes or individual chapters.

[@claudeclawsonne4510]

Who told you I was rooting for any of these people? I'm sticking with the story to see what happens. None of these people are what I would call morally good.

[@PocketLeaves]

Fair enough

[@Jamsalt]

I'd say he's "evil" but we know why he does it so it's hard to judge his cruel actions.

[@miko50783]

My take on ciel is this. He's a good person at heart, but he doesn't know it. This is especially prominent in the school arc where we really see ciel sort of show true happiness (especially after winning the cricket game) he's a caring person, he ordered sebastian to save Harcourt which Sebastian kinda ignores due to his contract but it's evident that he does care. Near the beginning of the Emerald Witch arc, we see him buys gifts for his servants, even making it a note to read the letters some of his friends at Weston Collage sent him. However, i think he acts cold and cruel due to the reason that his brother and father were like this. Vincent has always been described to be a little cold and Rciel is like that too. In one of the arcs (i think its the blue memory arc) where the two brothers were asked what they would do as a Earl. Real ciel gave a more calculated and cold answer while Ociel took more consideration in the people, he also genuinely cares about Elizabeth, maybe not in the way of her Fiance but as her Cousin or close friend since it's kinda apparent she's the only person he's close to that is in the same age range as him. So my take on it is, he wants to be cold, to be cruel and he does occasinally because his view of the world is twisted but for those he cares about, he will go any length to save them. Sorry for the rant but i love ciel

[@KreativeSpinnerin]

Its incredibly annoying how people tend to trivialize Ciel like a little baby and talk about his innocence due to his young age. It couldn't be more obvious if he was an assassin and it has nothing to do, that he's been "raised" by Sebastian. He called the devil in an act of sher despair and this already, is a sign of none existing innocence. He clearly knows what awaits him, especially from other humans and he is therefore even ready to kill at all cost.

[@PocketLeaves]

If that's how you see his character that's fair. But why do you say he's ready to kill at all costs? We see him hesitate to kill at times and feel guilt over causing the deaths of others. He only doesn't hesitate when it comes to killing someone like Baron Kelvin, a dangerous predator and person who he must eliminate to keep peace for the Queen and polite society. I also do think we should take his age and background into consideration, because that does impact his decision making, and where he's at developmentally. He's not a full grown man who's got shit figured out, and shouldn't be treated as such. But I totally get if you'd prefer to read his character as more cold and calculating. If that's what you enjoy about him, that's your prerogative! He does have those characteristics, and I think would have had a bit of a cruel streak even with out being raised by a demon, considering how his father could be, and the little we've seen of his twin.

[@user-lk8qn7cp8h]

I mean, honestly, I hate Ciel. Not as a person, but as a character. What he is portraying is not "grey" character, but just an asshole. There are plenty of characters who are arguably not good people, but you can empathize them(like Kirei and Gilgamesh from Fate, or Otto Apocalypse from Honkai), but they are completely different from this kid. I can believe his actions are plausible because of his background, but as a main character he is absolutely disgusting to me. If the author had at least showed us that his actions are horrible, that would be understandable. If Ciel felt guilty for what he's done even though he continued to pursue his goal - that would be understandable. But the way it is now makes me question the message of the whole show. What is it even about? What did Author even want to tell us? There's plenty of cool and interesting characters in Kuroshitsuji, but not the main one, which is a shame. I hope that later on Ciel will question his own morality and change somehow, otherwise Black Butler will end up being pretty, but completely hollow and pointless manga

[@PocketLeaves]

That's fair! I honestly don't see the manga taking time to show Ciel reflecting on his actions, so unfortunately the series will probably continue to disappoint you on that front. I really appreciate you sharing your outlook! I haven't seen many people hate Ciel, so it's neat to hear that perspective. I am curious to see how these other asshole characters compare though. I'm not super familiar with the ones you listed, but I'm confident that there are others to compare as well.

[@Mailed-Knight]

He regretted what he did to Joker and Doll.

[@turtle_general]

loved this video! So informed, i loved hearing your personal opinions and speculating. I think anyone could enjoy this! 🤼‍♀️