Overview
- Black Butler explores the dark and mysterious realms of Victorian England with its captivating characters, Sebastian and Earl Ciel.
- D.Gray-Man reimagines the Victorian backdrop, introducing exorcists battling the Akuma menace.
- Anime like Croisee in a Foreign Labyrinth and The Earl and the Fairy provide refreshing narratives set in Victorian France and Britain.
The Victorian era stands out as one of the most defining periods in human history, celebrated for its unique fashion sense and a fascination with the supernatural. A diverse range of novelists, manga artists, game developers, and anime creators have drawn inspiration from this era, crafting intriguing stories that transport audiences back in time.
Many anime series offer a revitalized perspective on this captivating epoch, weaving gothic elements into their plots to explore humanity’s enduring interest in otherworldly beings and tales laced with mild horror. For those eager to delve deeper into the richness of the Victorian era, the following anime are essential viewing.
1. Black Butler
A Tale of Contracts and Dark Themes
In Black Butler, young Earl Ciel Phantomhive escapes a terrifying fate at the hands of a demonic cult by summoning a demon looking for a master. His protector and servant, Sebastian Michaelis, becomes a central figure in Ciel’s life as they tackle various supernatural mysteries on behalf of Queen Victoria.
2. D.Gray-Man
Action-Packed Adventures in a Gothic World
D.Gray-Man offers a unique twist on the Victorian aesthetic, presenting a battle between humanity and the malevolent creatures known as Akuma, spawned from the sinister Millennium Earl. The series follows the Black Order as they wield sacred relics, Innocence, against the dark forces threatening their world. Though it faced an abrupt conclusion, its blend of action and intrigue makes it a noteworthy addition for fans of the genre.
3. Croisee in a Foreign Labyrinth
A Journey to Victorian Paris
- Release Date: July 4, 2011
- Genres: Drama
- Seasons: 1
- Creator: Jun’ichi Sato
- Streaming Services: Amazon Prime
In contrast to many Victorian-themed anime that focus on England, Croisee in a Foreign Labyrinth invites viewers to explore France. The story follows a young Japanese girl named Yune who builds friendships and navigates life in Paris while working at an ironworks shop under the guidance of a Frenchman named Oscar Claudel. This serene series offers an affectionate nod to Victorian Paris through Yune’s eyes.
4. The Earl and the Fairy
An Enchanting Blend of Fantasy and Romance
- Release Date: September 28, 2008
- Genres: Fantasy, Romance
- Seasons: 1
- Creator: Noriko Nagao
- Streaming Services: Amazon Prime, Crunchyroll
The Earl and the Fairy stands out for its magical elements intertwined with a Victorian romantic narrative. The story features Lydia Carlton, who possesses the ability to see fairies, and her journey alongside Edgar Ashenbert, as they seek a magical sword crucial for his aspirations of becoming a Blue Knight Earl. Their quest gracefully blends adventure with burgeoning romance, making it a hidden gem in the anime landscape.
5. Emma: A Victorian Romance
A Realistic Portrayal of Class and Love
Diverging from the classic literature narrative, Emma: A Victorian Romance offers a sincere portrayal of life in the late Victorian era, focusing on the love story between a maid and an aristocrat, whose romance defies societal constraints. Unlike many of its counterparts, this series is devoid of supernatural incidents, providing a raw and honest glimpse into the daily realities facing both the lower and upper classes of that time.
6. Moriarty The Patriot
The Ingenious Side of a Classic Rivalry
Drawing inspiration from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s beloved works, Moriarty the Patriot shifts the focus to William Moriarty, showcasing the struggles against the rigid social hierarchy of late 19th-century Britain. As tensions rise, a cunning murder mystery unfolds, capturing the timeless battle of wits between Moriarty and Sherlock Holmes, offering a fresh perspective on their iconic rivalry.
7. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
A Time-Traveling Epic with a Victorian Twist
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure brilliantly intertwines various locales and historical settings, most notably through its initial arc, Phantom Blood, which takes viewers back to the Victorian era. Here, the series introduces Jonathan Joestar and his nemesis Dio, who manipulates events in their lives through sinister means. The vampire element resonates profoundly with Victorian horror tropes, creating a captivating start to a multi-generational saga.
For anime enthusiasts with an affinity for history, particularly the intriguing nuances of the Victorian era, these series provide remarkable narratives combined with unforgettable characters and settings.
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