Character Analysis
Edward Elric - In Fullmetal Alchemist, Edward is the metaphorical metal undergoing transmutation. Initially, he represents the blackening of hubris. He is driven by guilt and obsession. His mechanical arm and leg are literal scars of nigredo — the price of failed transformation. While actively pursuing the philosophers stone, Edwards hotheaded and impulsive nature advance his inner alchemic journey. He represents alchemic sulfur “the hot, dry, active seed of metal, the male principle” (Abraham. 192). Ultimately he integrates shadow and light, pride and humility, rage and compassion. His final sacrifice trading his Gate of Alchemy for Al’s body exudes rubedo integration, wholeness, and spiritual gold.
Alphonse Elric - His calm and reflective nature juxtaposes Edward’s fire, His body-less existence serves as the ash of Nigredo — innocence trapped in emptiness.“According to Paracelsus all metals were made from a three-fold matter: mercury (the spirit), sulphur (the soul) and salt (the body)” (Abraham 176). His armor is literally salt - a stable, receptive container of spirit. Alphonse serves as the unredeemed prima materia until his body and soul reunify.
Winry Rockbell - Winry embodies albedo’s lunar principle of healing, reflection, and care. Through automail, she purifies Edward’s wound, offering him balance and grounding. She reflects and soothes the burns of battle; she embodies receptivity.
Hohenheim - He embodies the completed rubedo master. He has already suffered nigredo destruction, moved through albedo reflective wandering, and ultimately offers his being as a sacrifice for collective wholeness. His service to others mentality shows he has integrated the lessons learned along his journey.
The Elric’s father shares a name with Renaissance physician-alchemist Paracelsus (Philippus Aureolus Theophrastus Bombastus von Hohenheim, 1493–1541). His name signals his role as a living philosophers stone. “Hohen” means high in Old High German; “heim” means home, dwelling, and sanctuary; Hohenheim means high home. He is a vessel of souls with a higher purpose. His body acts as a home for numerous souls. This burden reflects this paradox of the body as both exile and sacred dwelling. Hohenheim is both homeless wanderer and embodiment of high home. Thus, he represents the Wounded Sage archetype.
Roy Mustang - The flame alchemist brings light against shadow. His fiery imagery, masculine energy, and strong leadership fulfill qualifications for Sol.
Father - The Dwarf in the Flask essentially amounts to a false stone or conterfeit God - the nigredo shadow of transcendence. He lacks integration and is solely motivated by service to self.