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Violet Evergarden

Violet Evergarden  (Japanese: ヴァイオレット・エヴァーガーデン,Vaioretto Evāgāden) is the protagonist of the  Violet Evergarden  series. A former soldier in the Leidenschaftlich army, Violet was once treated as nothing more than a weapon on the battlefield due to her exceptional combat abilities. After the war, she began working as an Auto Memories Doll at the CH Postal Company, embarking on a journey to understand the meaning behind the words “I love you,” spoken to her by Major Gilbert Bougainvillea during the war’s final battle.

I will run as fast as I can to wherever my customer desires. I am the Auto Memories Doll, Violet Evergarden.
— Violet Evergarden

Appearance

Violet Evergarden is described as a strikingly beautiful young girl, though her youthful features give her a somewhat doll-like appearance. Her slim build, medium height, and fair skin complement her narrow, elongated face, which is framed by large blue eyes with dark lashes. Violet’s long blonde hair reaches her hips, and she sports a fringe divided into three distinct strands—one falling in the center of her face, while the other two blend into longer sections that rest on her shoulders. Her hair is often noted for its silky texture, once described as “velvet” by Amy when she styled it. Violet typically ties her hair in a low ponytail with a black ribbon or, when working as an Auto Memories Doll, in two French braids that are wrapped and secured with red ribbons. Due to losing her arms during the war’s final battle, Violet now has silver adamantine prosthetic arms, which she refers to as “clumsy, but sturdy.”

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

Violet’s design in the anime.

Violet’s casual attire consists of a white shirt with a quarter-neck collar and wide sleeves that taper at the cuffs, paired with a leafy green skirt that begins just above her hips and falls to her knees. She completes this look with dark gray tights and worn brown ankle boots.

As an Auto Memories Doll, Violet often wears her work uniform, which includes a white ribbon-tie dress beneath a Prussian blue jacket. The outfit is accompanied by a pleated white silk skirt, and she prominently displays an emerald brooch at the center of her ribbon-tie, a gift from Major Gilbert Bougainvillea. Her ensemble is completed with brown gloves and long, heeled leather boots in a deep brown shade. When traveling for work, she carries a brown case and a blue parasol.


Personality

Violet Evergarden was raised and educated as a weapon rather than a normal human, resulting in her initial lack of understanding of human emotions. Though she possesses emotions, she struggles to recognize and interpret the feelings of others, which often leads people to perceive her as emotionless or apathetic. When Violet was found by Dietfried, she could only comprehend the command “Kill” and had no understanding of right or wrong, functioning solely by following orders. Her experiences in the military ingrained in her a strict, soldier-like mentality—she saluted instinctively, disliked feeling defenseless, and worked without breaks. Even after the war, she continued to think of herself as a “tool” and believed that she should be discarded once she lost her usefulness as a weapon.

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

Violet trying to pull Gilbert up a flight of stairs using her teeth.

Gilbert Bougainvillea was the one who introduced Violet to life beyond the battlefield. He taught her how to speak, write, and become more expressive, turning her into a person capable of understanding emotions. Violet is portrayed as persistent, dedicated, and dignified, traits that become evident when she refuses to abandon Gilbert, even after losing both her arms during the war. Her selflessness is further demonstrated in moments like when she sacrifices her prosthetic arm to save Dietfried or disarms a bomb with one arm. Violet’s bond with Gilbert was special, and she deeply treasured his words, “I love you,” which motivated her to become an Auto Memories Doll to understand their meaning. This decision marked the first time Violet chose her own path, independent of orders.

At first, Violet had difficulty comprehending emotions, which made her actions seem eccentric or tactless. While polite and deliberate, her bluntness and literal interpretation of her clients’ words sometimes resulted in awkward or insensitive letters. Violet is honest and unafraid to correct others, always striving to do what is right. Cattleya Baudelaire described Violet as secretive, straight-laced, and emotionless—someone who never hesitates in her actions but also keeps a distance from others. Despite this, Violet was aware of her limitations and continuously sought to improve her empathy. She addressed others politely, even in the face of harsh words, and maintained a calm, elegant demeanor.

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

Violet forcing an awkward smile after being called out for her expressionless demeanor.

Violet’s aloofness and deadpan expressions gave her the appearance of a doll, which made it difficult for others to gauge her emotions. However, her work as an Auto Memories Doll helped her slowly learn about human feelings, making her a skilled letter writer and a compassionate listener. Meeting clients with unique personalities allowed Violet to experience a broader range of emotions, and she gradually came to understand that sincere feelings could be conveyed through letters. She began to believe that no letter deserved to go undelivered, as she found happiness in receiving letters herself.

As Violet grew in her understanding of human emotions, she began to feel guilt for the lives she had taken during the war. She questioned whether it was right for her to live when Gilbert had supposedly died, and Hodgins’ words about her being “on fire” with emotional scars resonated deeply with her. Violet became more empathetic and apologetic, striving to help others and alleviate their suffering. She also came to value human life, vowing never to kill again, as she realized that death prevented people from expressing their feelings to their loved ones.

By the end of the series, Violet had become a fully capable Auto Memories Doll. She gained a deeper understanding of love, emotions, and her own feelings, which allowed her to grow into a more expressive and content person.

History

As a child, Violet was found alone on a deserted island by Dietfried Bougainvillea and his comrades after their ship became stranded. She had no name at the time, and Dietfried was unsure if she had been orphaned or had suffered an accident at sea. Initially annoyed and uninterested in her fate, Dietfried witnessed a horrifying event when some of his subordinates attempted to harm Violet, only for her to kill them in response. Terrified, the remaining soldiers fled, but Violet pursued and killed all of them, sparing only Dietfried. While she did not harm him, she followed him without speaking or understanding words. Dietfried soon realized that Violet could not communicate and only responded to the command “kill.” She appeared to be the island’s sole inhabitant, and her lethal actions were driven by the orders she received. Dietfried, curious about her abilities, conducted experiments by ordering her to kill animals or insects, and she followed his commands without hesitation. Despite her dangerous nature, Dietfried decided to bring her back with him.

Upon returning to the mainland, Dietfried “gifted” Violet to Major Gilbert Bougainvillea to commemorate his promotion. Gilbert, though initially reluctant, accepted her into his command and enlisted her into his military unit. Violet was kept at arm’s length from formal military ranks, as she was too young to serve officially. However, Gilbert was granted permission to conduct private experiments to determine whether Violet could be classified as a “weapon.” The Leidenschaftlich army certified her not as a person, but as an armament under Gilbert’s command. Despite orders to treat Violet as a tool, Gilbert defied these instructions and instead showed her kindness. He taught her to speak, read, and write, and gave her the name “Violet,” hoping she would grow into a woman as beautiful as the flower. Though Gilbert wished to place her in the care of a family, his fear of her uncontrollable nature kept him from doing so.

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

Violet during her time in the military.

Throughout the war, Violet’s extraordinary combat abilities made her an invaluable asset. She and Gilbert fought side by side, and her strength helped secure many critical victories. However, Gilbert struggled with the ethical dilemma of using Violet as a weapon, wishing for her to grow beyond her role as a tool of war and become a fully realized person.

During a decisive mission, Gilbert’s unit was tasked with capturing the enemy’s headquarters, a move that could end the war. Though they succeeded, the operation resulted in heavy casualties, and both Gilbert and Violet were gravely injured. As Gilbert lay on the brink of death, he pleaded with Violet to leave him behind and save herself. Despite having lost her arms, Violet refused, but after his continued pleas, she finally relented. Before losing consciousness, Gilbert told Violet that he wanted her to live freely, not as a tool but as a human being, and find her own place in the world. In his final words, he confessed that he loved her deeply.

After the war ended, Violet recovered from her injuries and was taken in by the Evergarden family, with Tiffany Evergarden providing her care. At Gilbert’s request, Claudia Hodgins also welcomed Violet into the CH Postal Company, where she began working as an Auto Memories Doll. Through her work, Violet sought to understand the meaning behind Gilbert’s parting words: “I love you.”

Relationships

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

Violet being embraced by Gilbert during their first encounter.

Throughout her life, Violet Evergarden has formed numerous significant relationships, transitioning from a soldier regarded as a “weapon” to one of the most renowned Auto Memories Dolls in the industry. Despite her often expressionless and aloof demeanor, Violet is both considerate and empathetic, striving to help her clients in any way she can. Those who encounter her often remark on her calming voice, elegant handwriting, and her unique ability to touch and reshape their lives. Many have said that she possesses a special power to save people, leaving a lasting impression on them.

Gilbert Bougainvillea

Violet’s most important relationship is with Major Gilbert Bougainvillea, who was not only her commanding officer but also the first person to treat her with kindness and compassion. Gilbert saw Violet as a human being rather than a tool, and their bond became the core of Violet’s emotional growth. Upon their first meeting, Gilbert embraced Violet, a gesture she had never experienced before, and this act of care immediately solidified her attachment to him. Violet became intensely loyal to Gilbert, following his orders without question and dedicating herself to his well-being. Hodgins even remarked that Violet was obsessed with receiving orders from Gilbert, whom she saw as the only person worth following.

Over time, Violet grew deeply attached to Gilbert, developing a profound sense of devotion. She viewed herself as his tool and lived with the singular purpose of being useful to him. Despite her initial lack of understanding of emotions, Violet held immense respect for Gilbert because he kept her by his side and treated her kindly, unlike anyone else in her life. She prioritized his health over her own, protecting him at all costs and disregarding her own injuries as long as he was safe. During the four years they spent together, Gilbert taught Violet how to speak, write, and experience emotions, fostering a close and unique relationship.

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

Violet reuniting with Gilbert.

After the war, Violet struggled with feelings of uselessness, believing she should be discarded due to her injuries and inability to “serve” Gilbert any longer. She missed him terribly and spent much of her time writing letters to him and trying to find him. Though he was absent, Gilbert remained a central figure in Violet’s mind, and she frequently thought of him during moments of insecurity or loneliness. His words and actions continued to influence her, as she sought to understand the meaning of “I love you,” which Gilbert had said to her during their final moments together.

Violet was devastated when she learned of Gilbert’s presumed death. Unable to accept his fate, she fell into deep despair, neglecting her work as an Auto Memories Doll. However, with the support of her friends and colleagues, she slowly began to heal and come to terms with the loss. Violet resolved to live freely, as Gilbert had wished, leaving behind her past as a soldier and weapon. Despite this, her feelings for Gilbert remained strong. Though she denied being in love with him due to her limited understanding of love, many who observed her devotion and care for him concluded that Violet did indeed love Gilbert.

Her love for Gilbert is complex, combining familial affection and deep loyalty. He was the only true support system she ever had, and their bond was akin to that of family. After their eventual reunion, Gilbert continued to love Violet, and Violet herself grew to better understand the concept of love. Gilbert, in turn, patiently waits for Violet to fully comprehend his words “I love you” and hopes that when she does, she will accept his love.


CH Postal Company Clients

Throughout her work as an Auto Memories Doll, Violet Evergarden has formed deep connections with various clients, each of whom left a lasting impact on her. Her expressionless demeanor and aloof nature often led clients to initially misjudge her, but her dedication, empathy, and ability to convey their emotions through letters often transformed their lives.

Charlotte Abelfreyja Drossel

Violet was assigned as the personal Doll to Princess Charlotte, initially causing friction due to Violet’s impassive personality. However, over time, Charlotte warmed to Violet, who became genuinely concerned about Charlotte’s anxieties regarding her arranged marriage to Prince Damian. Violet expressed her desire to ease Charlotte’s sorrow, not just as a Doll but as a friend. She took full responsibility in facilitating communication between Charlotte and Damian, arranging for them to write their own letters instead of using intermediaries. Although Violet couldn’t attend Charlotte’s wedding, she was content, showing her first genuine smile on screen, happy that Charlotte had found love and happiness.

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

Violet and Leon.

Leon Stephanotis

Violet met Leon during a research project at the Shaher Astronomical Headquarters, where scholars were paired with Auto Memories Dolls. Though Leon initially treated Violet coldly, she remained unfazed. Over time, they formed a bond due to their shared backgrounds—both were orphans—and Violet stood up for him when others spoke ill of his past. Leon began to develop romantic feelings for Violet, and before her departure, he mustered the courage to confess his love. However, Violet couldn’t return his feelings, as she already had someone dear to her. Despite this, she appreciated Leon’s sincerity and enjoyed spending time with him, grateful for the moments they shared watching the stars. Leon was content with her response and vowed to travel the world like her, hoping to watch the stars with her again if they ever reunited.

Oscar Webster

Oscar hired Violet to assist in writing a children’s play, with the lead character based on his late daughter. Initially finding him troublesome, Violet nevertheless helped him with various tasks, including cooking and bringing his visions to life. She empathized with Oscar’s grief over his daughter’s death, and through their collaboration, Oscar began to come to terms with his loss. His gratitude toward Violet grew after witnessing her dedication and the way she honored his daughter’s memory in her work.

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

Violet embracing Anne.

Anne Magnolia

Violet met Anne when her terminally ill mother, Clara, requested Violet to write fifty letters for her daughter’s future. Initially distrustful of Violet, Anne soon became attached to her, often asking Violet to play with her. Although Violet maintained her professional demeanor, she also showed Anne kindness and respect, recognizing the girl’s loneliness. When Anne had an emotional outburst over her mother’s illness, Violet comforted her, encouraging her to cry and assuring her that she was not at fault for her mother’s condition. Violet admired Anne’s strength and maturity, leaving a profound impact on Anne as she grew older. After completing her assignment, Violet was deeply affected by the thought of Anne living without her mother and later admitted to holding back her tears during her time at the Magnolia residence.

Aidan Field

Aidan was a soldier involved in a civil war in Ctrigall who entrusted Violet with writing letters to his loved ones before his death. Despite the dangerous situation, Violet accepted the assignment and made every effort to rescue Aidan, arriving by parachute and escorting him to safety after defeating his enemies. During his final moments, Violet stayed by his side, holding his hand and kissing his forehead to provide him comfort before he passed away. After delivering Aidan’s letters to his family and lover, Violet broke down, apologizing for not being able to save him. She continued to blame herself for his death, and when Aidan’s former enemies mocked him, Violet became enraged, attempting to retaliate in his honor.

Friends and Other Acquaintances

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

Luculia embraces Violet in joy over her promotion.

Luculia Marlborough

Violet met Luculia at the Auto Memories Doll Training School, where Luculia initially found Violet eccentric but soon struck up a conversation with her. As they practiced their ghostwriting skills together, the two developed a close friendship, even dropping formalities when speaking to each other. Luculia became a significant figure in Violet’s life, especially when she tried to lift Violet’s spirits after a difficult time during training by taking her to her favorite spot. In return, Violet began to care deeply for Luculia, and it was through their friendship that Violet first learned the emotion of “gratitude.”

Luculia had long wanted to express her appreciation to her brother for returning from the war but struggled to find the right words. Violet helped her by composing a short and heartfelt letter that successfully conveyed Luculia’s feelings. Deeply grateful, Luculia embraced Violet when she later became a certified Doll, recognizing that Violet had also taught her the most important aspect of being an Auto Memories Doll. Violet, in turn, values Luculia’s support and tries to ensure that Luculia never worries about her, offering a reassuring smile when needed. Their friendship is mutually supportive, with Violet praising Luculia’s achievements and Luculia sharing in Violet’s success.

Dietfried Bougainvillea

Dietfried was the first person Violet encountered, and the one whose orders she followed when she was treated as a weapon. Despite Dietfried’s harsh treatment of her—he admitted to punching and kicking her—Violet respects him. However, Dietfried holds deep resentment toward Violet, disgusted by her transformation into an Auto Memories Doll who brings people together through letters, given her past as a soldier who killed many, including his own men. Dietfried’s words and accusations severely affect Violet’s self-confidence, causing her to question her right to live. Nevertheless, Violet denies his claims that she is merely a weapon, rejecting his commands to take her own life, explaining that she was instructed to live.

Though Dietfried harbors strong feelings of hatred toward Violet, she does not hate him in return. She even offers to help him if needed, though he rejects her sympathy. Over time, Dietfried comes to accept Violet as more than a tool, recognizing her as “Violet Evergarden,” an individual with her own identity. He urges her to take responsibility for her past actions, not to blame others for her sins, and to live her life to the fullest. His final statement to Violet, though harshly worded, is described by her as a form of “encouragement.”

Abilities

Violet Evergarden is an exceptionally skilled and capable fighter, having been trained as a soldier from a young age. Her prowess on the battlefield made her infamous, often regarded as more of a “weapon” than a human due to her strength and ability to kill without hesitation. Her remarkable combat abilities earned her the nickname “Leidenschaftlich’s Soldier Maiden.”

Master Combatant

Violet’s combat skills are described as almost inhuman, allowing her to easily overpower and defeat large numbers of adult soldiers and prisoners, even as a child. Her fighting knowledge and abilities predate her meeting with Dietfried Bougainvillea, as she had already demonstrated her lethal capabilities when he first encountered her.

Use of Weapons

Violet is proficient in the use of a wide variety of weapons, including guns, swords, and bows. Whatever weapon she wields, she uses it with lethal precision, effortlessly defeating her opponents. Her proficiency extends to unusual or oversized weapons, such as a massive battle axe calledWitchcraft, which she wields with ease despite its weight, a feat impossible for most people. Her expertise in firearms allows her to shoot with remarkable accuracy, even while in motion, and she can quickly identify and counter her enemies’ surprise attacks. Violet’s ability to kill with various weapons has led to disturbing tales about her brutal effectiveness on the battlefield.

Axe Mastery

Violet’s mastery of the battle axe, particularly her personal weaponWitchcraft, is noteworthy. Her strength and skill with the axe made her a formidable soldier, and she continues to use the weapon when traveling through dangerous areas as an Auto Memories Doll.

Expert Martial Artist

In addition to her weapon skills, Violet is highly proficient in hand-to-hand combat, able to minimize the advantages of larger, stronger opponents through kicks, punches, throws, and holds. Even after the war, Violet demonstrates self-defense techniques when necessary, using non-lethal methods to incapacitate opponents after vowing to never kill again. Her martial arts expertise allows her to handle any situation that requires close-quarters combat.

Typing

Despite her prosthetic arms, Violet excels at typing on a typewriter, an essential skill for her work as an Auto Memories Doll. Her writing is precise and error-free, with an advanced vocabulary and flawless grammar. She can type at an impressive speed of 200 characters per minute and consistently ranked at the top of her class during her training. Even when without a typewriter, Violet is able to visualize and commit a letter to memory by mimicking the motion of typing in the air.

Stamina and Speed

Violet’s physical abilities are further enhanced by her exceptional stamina, speed, and agility. She is capable of quick, fluid movements that allow her to dodge attacks and strike back swiftly. Her endurance is remarkable, as she can endure pain without faltering, continuing to fight and support her comrades despite her injuries. Violet’s strength and combat skills are often noted to surpass even those of Gilbert Bougainvillea, who himself was a highly trained military officer. On the battlefield, Violet has proven her ability to defeat and kill multiple opponents in rapid succession, solidifying her reputation as an unstoppable force.

Trivia

  • Violet’s name, given to her by Gilbert, is derived from the mythological flower goddessGarnet Spear.
  • Violet has a habit of biting objects to test the sensation they give .
  • Violet’s exact age remains unknown, as she was the sole survivor of an unknown island .
  • In the anime, Violet is estimated by others to be around 14 years old .
  • In the light novel, characters estimate her age to be in her late teens.
  • Gilbert estimated that Violet was around 10 when they first met and 14 during the war’s final battle .
  • When Aidan Field met Violet, he believed her to be the same age as him, 18 years old .
  • The green brooch that Violet always wears was a gift from Gilbert, and she requested it because the color reminded her of his eyes, which she found beautiful. It is her most cherished possession .
  • Despite being proficient at many tasks, Violet is not very skilled at cooking . However, in the novel, she shows some improvement in this area.
  • The frilly blue parasol that Violet sometimes carries was a gift from Oscar .
  • Violet owns a large battle axe namedWitchcraft, which was shown in the anime’s first promotional material but was later cut from the final version of the anime.
  • According to popular consensus, Violet’s MBTI personality type is considered to be ISTJ.