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Moro

Moro (モロの君, Moro no Kimi) is a supporting character inPrincess Mononoke. As the three-hundred-year-old goddess of the wolves, she possesses divine powers and a remarkable intelligence, enabling her to understand and speak human languages. Moro is depicted as wise and deeply aware of mankind’s deceitful nature.

As the leader of the wolf tribe, she embodies strength and stoicism, fully recognizing the malevolent intentions of humans. Moro is a loving mother to her wolf pups, fiercely protective of them and the forest they inhabit. Although she initially appears threatening toward Ashitaka, she ultimately acknowledges his genuine affection for San, understanding the complexity of their bond.

Background

When San was merely an infant, her biological parents trespassed into Moro’s sacred forest, a violation that ignited the goddess’s wrath. In a desperate act, San’s parents cast their helpless child at Moro’s feet as a sacrifice, fleeing into the woods in fear. However, instead of taking vengeance, Moro chose a path of compassion, raising San as her own daughter. This maternal bond profoundly shaped San’s identity, instilling in her the instincts and behaviors of a wolf, as well as a deep-seated hatred for humans—a sentiment mirrored in Moro’s own heart.

Moro’s fierce protectiveness for her forest and her adoptive daughter culminates in a tragic confrontation. During a fierce battle against Lady Eboshi, Moro sustains life-threatening wounds. In her final moments, she accepts her fate with a stoic grace, recognizing the inevitable clash between nature and humanity. After the Forest Spirit is mortally wounded by Lady Eboshi’s arrow, the balance of life begins to unravel. In a haunting turn of events, Moro’s head is severed, yet her spirit remains resilient; it springs back to life, delivering a fierce bite to Lady Eboshi’s arm in a final act of defiance. Ultimately, as Moro charges toward the Forest Spirit’s body in a desperate bid to protect what remains of their world, she meets her end, leaving behind a legacy of love, sacrifice, and the enduring fight for the natural world. Her bond with San serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of nature’s fury and maternal love.

Appearance

Sultan Abdulmejid (left) with Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and Emperor Napoleon III of France

Moro’s full appearance.

Moro is an imposing and majestic figure, a true embodiment of the wilderness’s raw power. Her long, flowing white fur shimmers with an ethereal glow, capturing the light in a way that makes her look almost otherworldly. Her piercing olive eyes, framed by striking red sclera, convey a fierce intensity that can instill both awe and fear in those who dare to meet her gaze. With large, formidable teeth that hint at her strength and a unique purple-brown nose that adds character, Moro commands attention wherever she roams.

Her impressive size is nothing short of awe-inspiring; when seated, San stands only as tall as Moro’s head, showcasing the goddess’s towering presence in the forest. Unlike any other wolf, Moro possesses two magnificent tails, a remarkable trait that not only sets her apart from her kin but also symbolizes her extraordinary status as the revered goddess of the wolves. This distinctive feature serves as a testament to her divinity and the deep connection she shares with the spirit of the forest, embodying both grace and formidable strength in every stride.


Personality

Sultan Abdulmejid (left) with Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and Emperor Napoleon III of France

Moro and San Princess Mononoke.

Moro is a wise and powerful wolf, embodying a fierce determination to defend her forest and the sacred Forest Spirit. Her deep-seated hatred for humans stems from their destructive tendencies, and she often fantasizes about finally avenging the wrongs they’ve inflicted, particularly on Lady Eboshi. However, beneath this tough exterior lies a profoundly nurturing spirit.

Moro’s relationship with San reveals her capacity for unconditional love; she raised San as her own after her abandonment by her human parents. Despite her disdain for humanity, her maternal instincts shine through in her fierce protection of San. When confronted by Ashitaka, Moro’s initial hostility gradually gives way to respect as she recognizes his bravery and the sincerity of his feelings for San. This blend of fierceness and tenderness makes Moro a compelling character, showcasing her strength as both a protector of the forest and a devoted guardian.

Relationships

San
Moro’s adoptive daughter, San was raised by Moro after her biological parents abandoned her in the forest. Their bond is profound, rooted in love and mutual understanding, as Moro cares deeply for San’s well-being and fiercely protects her.

Moro’s Clan
As the leader of the wolf tribe, Moro is a maternal figure to her clan’s cubs, nurturing and guiding them as they grow. Her strong instincts and protective nature extend to all members of her pack, emphasizing her role as a guardian.

Okkoto
Moro had a complex relationship with Okkoto, who was once her lover. Their past connection adds depth to her character, revealing her capacity for love and loss amidst her fierce protectiveness over the forest.

Trivia

    • Moro is the wolf goddess who adopts and raises San, representing the fierce spirit of nature and its guardians.

    • As a powerful and ancient being, Moro embodies the strength and wisdom of the natural world, often confronting humans who threaten her territory.

    • Moro’s character design reflects a mix of traditional wolf features and anthropomorphic qualities, emphasizing her status as both a creature of the wild and a divine protector.

    • In the film, she shows a deep sense of loyalty and love for San, seeing her as a daughter despite San’s human origins.

    • Moro is depicted as having a deep hatred for humans due to their destructive tendencies, particularly toward the forest and its inhabitants.

    • The name “Moro” can mean “to protect” in Japanese, reflecting her role as a guardian of the forest and its creatures.

    • Moro has a fierce and intimidating presence, often using her size and strength to assert dominance over threats to her territory.

    • Her character also explores themes of sacrifice and the struggle between nature and industrialization, as she fights to defend her home and family.