Understanding Scar Through the Lens of Philosophical Ethics in 'Fullmetal Alchemist'

December 24, 2023 Djinn

Benzene and Greed's Connection with Scar

The infamous character Scar from the Fullmetal Alchemist franchise stands out amongst the large cast of characters due to his unique state as an Ishbalan survivor and alchemist. But what is the philosophical reasoning towards Scar's existence? Is Scar a representation of philosophical ethics, and if so, what does it mean? To understand the answer, one must look at the motivations surrounding Scar's actions, most notably, his use of his alchemy and his master plan.

Benzene And Greed

Thescar's actions in the series are heavily intertwined with the use of the elite alchemy formula, Benzene. Developed as a part of Greed's so-called "Philosopher's Stone Project", Benzene was a powerful tool that allowed Scar to bypass the limitations of alchemy. By consuming it, Scar was able to create a powerful form of alchemy with no need for a transmutation circle, which gave him a massive advantage over his opponents.

It is this ability to create powerful alchemy with no need for an alchemical procedure that gives Scar his sense of power and independence. This independence is the core of his motivation and his belief that it is necessary to do whatever is necessary to survive. In a sense, Scar's condensation of Benzene could be seen as an ethical stance, as it allows him to pursue freedom over strict adherence to alchemical regulations.

Scar's Master Plan

Scar also has a longer term goal which serves as a further example of his philosophical ethics. After devising a plan to use powerful alchemy to stop the ongoing Ishbal War, Scar works to collect enough human souls in order to create a massive Philosopher's Stone that will be powerful enough to accomplish his goal. While at first this is seen as pure evil, upon further research it can be seen as an attempt to move away from the military conflict and achieve a peaceful resolution.

By collecting souls of Ishbalans, Scar is able to direct the blame away from the Ishbalans while still taking advantage of their power. In this way, Scar is able to use the power of alchemy to resolve the war without needing to kill anyone. This utilitarianism highlights Scar's belief that the ends justify the means, as long as they benefit everyone involved.

Understanding Scar Through Philosophical Ethics

By looking at Scar's actions throughout the series it can be seen that his motivations center around gaining independence and finding a way to resolve the Ishbal War without needing to take any more lives. This is a clear example of philosophical ethics, as Scar uses his abilities in an ethical fashion in order to achieve a greater good. His motivations are not evil, but rather attempts to make the world a better place and ultimately benefit everyone involved.

Scar's Tragic Departure and Return in 'Fullmetal Alchemist'

December 24, 2023 Djinn

Scar's Tragic Departure and Return in Fullmetal Alchemist

Scars has always been one of the most integral parts of Fullmetal Alchemist's story. Though he is an antagonist, he is one of the characters that fans have been particularly drawn to. He is a tragic figure, a victim of tragedy and circumstance. His departure from the story was no less shocking.

The Departure of Scar

When Scar first made his entrance into the story, he quickly became a fan-favorite. His tragic backstory and disagreeable attitude toward the Elric brothers made him a one-of-a-kind character. While he fights alongside the Elrics for a while, he eventually decides to leave and go on his own. He has no heroes to look to, no mentors, and no gods to rely on. He only follows whatever faith he feels is right for him. This decision eventually leads him to his tragic demise.

Scar's Tragic Demise

Scar has always been a character struggling with his inner demons and his choices, and as his story progresses, it becomes painfully clear that the decision to leave was not a wise one. He eventually finds himself in a clash between several powerful alchemists and a monstrous beast from the abyss. He fights bravely and desperately, destroying parts of the city in the process. He eventually perishes in a fiery explosion that ripples through the city. His death, while heartbreaking, was seen as necessary for the progression of the story.

Scar's Return

Despite his death, the fans never truly let go of Scar and his story. After the end of the series, Scar eventually makes a reappearance with a new, courageous determination. His return is brief, with a few scenes of him visiting with old friends, but it's enough to see the new outlook he's gained from beyond. He is no longer a villain of circumstance. Instead, he is a determined fighter and sympathetic character, determined to right the wrongs he has caused in the world. His courage and strength of spirit are a powerful contrast to his previous life.

Conclusion

Scar's tragic departure and return to the Fullmetal Alchemist story is a testament to the power and influence of fan-favorite characters. His story arc is emotionally powerful, providing a clear arc from villain to hero and back. While his fate was ultimately tragic, it's nothing compared to the power of his return, and to the power of the inspiring themes of courage, strength, and determination that he brings to the story.

Scar and His Search for Humanity in 'Fullmetal Alchemist'

December 24, 2023 Djinn

Scar's Journey to Find the Humanity within Him

Scar, the primary antagonist of the Fullmetal Alchemist anime adaptation, begins his search for humanity with a heart soaked in vengeance. His appearance on the scene is one of anger and malevolence, while under that facade lies a tortured soul, desperate to reconcile with the side of him lost during the Ishvalan conflict. Throughout his story arc, Scar goes through a profound transformation, evolving from a fierce anti-hero to a devoted protector of humanity.

First and foremost, Scar's journey towards finding his humanity begins with his realization of the injustice inflicted upon him and his people. After watching his beloved brother Edward Elric and his allies commit atrocities against innocent people, Scar is forced to confront the calamity caused by his own hatred for alchemists. Throughout his travels, he often reflects upon his violent past, his people and the despicable acts he has committed. Scar's hatred and fear of alchemists is slowly replaced by his sympathy for the innocent victims of their alchemical experimentations, and these revelations allow him to regain some of his lost humanity.

Another important element to his transformation is his relationship with Winry Rockbell and her family. Through them, he learns to understand humans and their way of life in a much more intimate way. They demonstrate the good within Scar's character and help to open his heart to the possibility of humanity. His interaction with them slowly erodes away his prejudice and judgmental views of alchemists, showing him that humans have the capability of great acts of compassion.

Throughout his time with the Rockbells, Scar is able to justify his identity as an Ishvalan and ultimately reconcile with his own beliefs. He is given an opportunity to understand the world around him and its people, allowing him to make more informed and compassionate decisions in the future. In the end, Scar is able to forgive himself and those he believes should be forgiven. He also learns to show mercy and mercy to those who deserve it. Despite still occasionally succumbing to his darker impulses, Scar can now finally look upon the world with his eyes wide open, no longer blinded by his previous hatred and prejudices.

Ultimately, Scar's journey to rediscover his humanity is an inspiring and powerful one. His story arc is an example of one man's journey towards reconciliation and redemption, and it serves as a reminder to us all that even those who have been lost in the depths of hatred and prejudice can still find their way back.