
Gieve
Gieve |
|
---|---|
![]() |
|
Japanese | ギーヴ |
Romaji | Gīvu |
Personal Information | |
Affiliation | Camp of Arslan |
Language | Lusitanian |
Birth | P.E. 298 |
Gender | Male |
Hair Color | Dark Violet |
Eye Color | Blue |
Personality

Appearance in Anime
Gieve is a charming yet self-indulgent womanizer, primarily motivated by beauty and wealth. He sees himself as irresistibly attractive and takes great pride in his poetry and musical talents, though others often critique the mediocrity of his lyrics. Despite his arrogance, his handsome appearance frequently draws admiration from women, reinforcing his belief in his own desirability.
Though he appears shallow and opportunistic, Gieve harbors a deep disdain for nobility, viewing most aristocrats as greedy tyrants who care little for their subjects. As a result, he initially rejects the idea of serving any ruler. However, upon meeting Prince Arslan, Gieve begins to change his outlook, recognizing Arslan as a rare noble with integrity and compassion. Over time, he develops genuine respect and trust in the young prince, leading him to set aside his self-serving tendencies in favor of aiding Arslan’s cause.
Despite his love for wealth, Gieve proves that he values people over material riches most notably when he sacrifices his own gold to protect Arslan, demonstrating his growing sense of loyalty and selflessness.
Appearance
Gieve is a fit and well-proportioned man of average height, with striking blue eyes. He has short, messy dark magenta hair, which he partially covers with a cloth wrapped around his head like a bandana, giving him a distinctive, roguish appearance.
His attire reflects his free-spirited and flamboyant nature, as he is most often seen wearing lavender robes, which set him apart from the more traditionally armored warriors of Arslan’s camp. His choice of clothing, along with his casual and confident demeanor, reinforces his identity as a wandering musician and rogue adventurer.
Background
Before meeting Arslan, Gieve lived as a traveling musician and swordsman, moving from court to court, performing songs and seducing noblewomen. His sharp tongue, keen intelligence, and combat skills allowed him to survive as both an entertainer and a warrior-for-hire.
Despite his charming lifestyle, Gieve always felt like an outsider, unwilling to fully commit to any cause or allegiance. His independent nature made him resistant to authority, and he preferred freedom over loyalty until he met Arslan and his companions.
Initially, Gieve joins Arslan’s resistance movement for his own amusement and the hope of winning Farangis’s heart. However, as he fights alongside Arslan’s forces, he begins to develop genuine admiration for the young prince’s ideals.
Though he claims to be uninterested in politics or war, he soon becomes one of Arslan’s most valuable allies, using his intelligence, combat skills, and ability to read people to aid the resistance.
Role in The Heroic Legend of Arslan
Unlike Daryun, Narsus, or Farangis, Gieve is not motivated by honor or duty. Instead, he provides a unique and contrasting perspective, often challenging traditional ideas of kingship, war, and morality.
His cynical but insightful observations often reveal truths that others ignore, making him an important voice of reason within the group.
Though he acts carefree, Gieve is an incredibly skilled fighter, excelling in both archery and swordsmanship. He often takes out enemies from a distance with his bow, but when forced into close combat, he wields his sword with deadly precision.
Despite his independent nature, Gieve is reliable in battle, proving time and again that he is not just a musician, but a warrior.
Though he initially sees Arslan as naive, Gieve slowly comes to admire the young prince’s courage and wisdom. Unlike many nobles, Arslan genuinely cares for the people, which challenges Gieve’s belief that all rulers are corrupt.
As the war progresses, Gieve chooses to remain by Arslan’s side, not out of obligation, but because he truly believes in Arslan’s vision for a better Pars.
Relationships
Farangis
Gieve is infatuated with Farangis, openly admiring her beauty and constantly attempting to court her. His initial reason for joining Arslan’s camp is purely to pursue her affections. However, Farangis does not reciprocate his feelings and often dismisses his advances with cold indifference.
Despite her lack of interest, Gieve remains protective of her, demonstrating his devotion in subtle ways. One notable instance occurs when Rajendra attempts to offer Farangis a drink, prompting Gieve to intervene and interrupt the exchange, revealing his jealous and possessive tendencies.
Arslan
Although Gieve initially joins Arslan’s group with the sole intention of pursuing Farangis, he gradually develops genuine interest in Arslan as a person. He finds Arslan’s unusual personality intriguing and begins to respect his ideals and leadership. Over time, Gieve’s curiosity about Arslan’s potential as a ruler grows, leading him to stay by his side out of more than just personal gain.
Legacy
Gieve is one of the most complex and dynamic characters in The Heroic Legend of Arslan. His transition from an aloof wanderer to a loyal ally reflects his personal growth and newfound belief in Arslan’s leadership.
Though he remains a rogue at heart, Gieve proves that loyalty does not always come from duty, it can come from respect and admiration. His sharp wit, combat skills, and unique perspective make him one of the most indispensable members of Arslan’s resistance.
His journey from self-interest to genuine loyalty adds depth and nuance to the series, proving that even the most cynical characters can find something worth fighting for.