Vincent Phantomhive
Vincent Phantomhive |
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Kanji: | ヴィンセント・ファントムハイヴ |
Rōmaji: | Vinsento Fantomuhaivu |
Alias | Queen’s Watchdog |
Base of Operation: | Phantomhive Manor Phantomhive townhouse Weston College (former) London |
Species | Human |
Affiliation: | Phantomhive |
Previous Occupation: | Head of the Phantomhive Household Watchdog of the Queen Prefect of the Blue House Student at Weston College Alumnus of Weston College Aristocrat of Evil |
Voice Actors | |
Japanese Voice: | Kazuyuki Okitsu |
English Voice: | Robert McCollum (Adult) Austin Tindle (Teenager) |
First appearance | |
Manga Debut: | Volume 3, Chapter 10 |
Anime Debut: | Season 1, Episode 1 |
Earl Vincent Phantomhive (ヴィンセント・ファントムハイヴ, Vinsento Fantomuhaivu) was the former head of the Phantomhive house and a prominent Aristocrat of Evil in the anime and manga series Black Butler (Kuroshitsuji). Renowned for his intelligence and influence, Vincent was a key figure in Victorian England’s underworld. He was the late husband of Rachel Phantomhive and the father of Ciel Phantomhive, whose life and legacy continue to shape the events of the series.
Appearance
Appearance in manga
Vincent Phantomhive is depicted as a handsome and well-dressed man with an air of elegance. His features include short, bluish-black hair and striking blue eyes, which give him a distinguished and refined appearance. A beauty mark under his left eye adds a unique touch to his face, further enhancing his striking features. As the head of the Phantomhive family before his death, Vincent’s appearance was carefully curated to reflect his status and noble heritage, often seen in attire befitting his rank. His image embodies the grace and prestige associated with his family, which was further reinforced by his role in society.
Personality
Vincent Phantomhive is depicted as a man of refined manners and dignity, consistently upholding the values of courtesy and chivalry. His thoughtful and respectful demeanor earned him the admiration and unwavering loyalty of his servants and peers. As a gentleman, Vincent always took the time to engage with others, even offering kind words when needed, such as when he complimented Angelina Dalles on her red hair, sensing her self-consciousness.
His devotion to his family was unwavering, and he valued his role as a husband and father above all else. Vincent’s deep care for his loved ones shaped his actions and decisions, as he sought to provide and protect them, often putting their needs before his own.
In addition to his familial devotion, Vincent was a sharp and shrewd leader, with an innate ability to manipulate situations to his advantage. His cleverness and tactical mindset were evident in his younger years when he successfully led his team to victory in Weston College’s cricket tournament, despite the odds being stacked against him. This victory, which became known as the “Miracle of Sapphires,” secured not only a triumph for Vincent but also the loyalty of his adversary, Diedrich. His ability to think several steps ahead made him a highly respected figure, admired for his intelligence and strategic prowess, earning praise from those like his brother-in-law, Alexis Leon Midford, who considered him a “genius game-maker.”
Despite his outward grace and charm, Vincent’s true nature was one of power and resolve, commanding respect from both allies and adversaries alike.
History
Vincent Phantomhive was the head of the Phantomhive household and served as Queen Victoria’s Watchdog. His early life was marked by academic success and strategic thinking. He attended Weston College, where he became known for his sharp intellect and cunning. In his final year at college, he was appointed prefect of the Sapphire Owl dormitory. His rivalry with Diedrich, a fellow student, led to a memorable confrontation that would shape Vincent’s future.
The turning point came during the annual cricket tournament on June 4th, when Vincent, distracted by a book, provoked Diedrich with a remark about the difficulty of handling “everything German.” This led to a con where the winner would make the loser fulfill a free request. Vincent led his dorm to victory in the tournament, a feat that became known as the “Miracle of Sapphires.” True to his word, Diedrich agreed to fulfill Vincent’s request, which was for him to become Vincent’s “loyal German dog” – a relationship that continued beyond graduation.
Vincent’s charm and wit were not limited to academic cons. His marriage to Rachel, and the birth of their son, Ciel, marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life. Vincent was deeply involved with his family, spending time with them when not engaged in his work. He also personally taught Ciel how to govern their estate, preparing him for his future role as head of the household.
Vincent was well-connected in high society, regularly attending parties with other nobles. During one such event, he met Kelvin, a philanthropist who later became intrigued by the Phantomhives. Kelvin eventually discovered the dark secrets surrounding Vincent’s family and their connection to the “Aristocrats of Evil.” Despite his outwardly charming demeanor, Vincent was deeply involved in the morally questionable activities that would define the Phantomhive legacy.
Tragedy struck on December 14, 1885, when Vincent, Rachel, and the family dog, Sebastian, were killed in a fire that destroyed Phantomhive Manor. Ciel was kidnapped, and the perpetrator of this devastating attack remained a mystery. Vincent’s death marked a turning point for Ciel, who was left to grapple with the loss of his parents and the burning desire for revenge that would fuel his future actions.
Relationships
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Rachel Phantomhive
Vincent shared a loving and devoted relationship with his wife, Rachel, whose warmth and kindness balanced his more pragmatic and calculating nature. Their bond was a cornerstone of the Phantomhive household. -
Ciel Phantomhive
As Ciel’s father, Vincent was a guiding figure in his early life, instilling in him a sense of duty and resilience. Ciel’s determination to uphold the family’s legacy is a reflection of Vincent’s influence. -
Undertaker
Vincent maintained a professional and possibly personal connection with Undertaker, who held him in high regard. Their association is a recurring theme, with Undertaker frequently referencing Vincent’s impact on the Phantomhive lineage.
Trivia
Legacy
Earl Vincent Phantomhive’s legacy looms large over the events of Black Butler, shaping the actions and motivations of his son, Ciel, and the dynamics of the Phantomhive household. As a masterful strategist, devoted family man, and ruthless Aristocrat of Evil, Vincent’s character embodies the duality of the Phantomhive lineage. His mysterious death and enduring influence make him a pivotal figure in the series, ensuring his presence is felt long after his demise.