From Drifter to Avowed Enemy: Scar's Transformation in 'Fullmetal Alchemist'
The Unstoppable March of Greed
The concept of transformation, even in fictional worlds, is a difficult one to explore. In the world of Fullmetal Alchemist, the concept of transformation takes on a new meaning as characters confront their inner demons, and strive to find ways to make amends for their past. One particular character has made an incredible transformation, and stands as an example of how even one's worst enemies can become valuable allies.
From Drifter to Avowed Enemy
During the first season of Fullmetal Alchemist, Scar – then known simply as the Ishbalan Drifter – was an elusive figure viewed primarily as an antagonist: a highly skilled fighter with an unknown agenda. It was later revealed that Scar was actually an ally, having developed a deep connection with the Elric brothers and their allies in the military.
Scar had a remarkable transformation from a drifter to an avowed enemy of the State, and this transformation was punctuated by his actions during the Ishbal civil war. In the midst of the war, Scar developed a unique skillset that allowed him to outmaneuver the military – a skill that would later come in handy when he joined the Elric brothers in their fight against the homunculi.
The Scars of Transformation
We later learn that Scar was actually the older brother of a former soldier in the Ishbalan resistance. His brother had been killed at the hands of the State, a tragedy that drove Scar to seek revenge and thus make his transformation from a drifter into an enemy of the State.
Scar was able to exact revenge upon the State by taking out several high-level targets with his unique skills. But his journey wasn’t without personal cost; the numerous scars he acquired were a reminder of the incredible transformation he had undergone.
The scars of Scar’s journey perhaps represent his ultimate redemption- in spite of his former drifter status, and his previous affiliations, Scar was ultimately an ally in the Elric brothers’ fight against the corrupt State. His transformation, symbolized by his many scars, serves as a reminder that no matter who you were in the past, redemption is always possible.