Roy Mustang, the Flame Alchemist and a central figure in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, loses his eyesight in episode 62, titled “A Fierce Counterattack.” This devastating event occurs during the final stages of the battle against Envy.
The Price of Revenge: Mustang’s Descent into Darkness
The moment Roy Mustang loses his sight is one of the most impactful and emotionally charged scenes in the entire Fullmetal Alchemist saga. It marks a significant turning point for his character and the overall narrative. Understanding the circumstances surrounding this event requires exploring the motivations and the consequences involved.
Envy’s Confession and Mustang’s Wrath
The confrontation leading to Mustang’s blindness stems from Envy’s confession regarding the murder of Maes Hughes. Hughes, a beloved friend and colleague, was a pivotal figure in Mustang’s life and a key player in their efforts to uncover the truth behind the government’s actions. Envy’s gloating confession ignites a fiery rage within Mustang, pushing him to the brink of moral compromise. Driven by an overwhelming thirst for vengeance, he mercilessly assaults Envy with his flame alchemy, pushing the homunculus to the verge of death.
Riza Hawkeye’s Intervention and the Moral Dilemma
It’s Riza Hawkeye, Mustang’s loyal subordinate and closest confidante, who ultimately prevents him from delivering the final blow. Seeing Mustang consumed by rage and poised to cross the line into becoming a cold-blooded murderer, she points her gun at him, forcing him to confront the consequences of his actions. This intervention highlights the moral complexities embedded within the series. Hawkeye’s unwavering loyalty and her commitment to Mustang’s ideals, even when he strays from them, become central to his eventual redemption.
The Cost of Vengeance: Eye for an Eye
Interrupted by the arrival of Scar, the confrontation continues. Scar, who has his own reasons for wanting to kill Envy, ultimately deals the finishing blow, but not before leaving Mustang vulnerable. To open the Gate of Truth and perform a human transmutation – necessary to restore Alphonse Elric’s body – a sacrifice is required. In Mustang’s case, the Gate demands his eyesight as payment. This shocking loss underscores the principle of equivalent exchange, a fundamental law governing alchemy in the Fullmetal Alchemist universe. While Alphonse is restored, Mustang is left permanently blind.
Understanding the Fallout: Consequences of Mustang’s Blindness
Mustang’s blindness is not merely a physical handicap; it profoundly impacts his character arc and future actions. He loses not only his sight but also a significant part of his identity and purpose.
Impact on Mustang’s Character Arc
Prior to losing his eyesight, Mustang’s ambition centered around becoming Führer and reforming the Amestris military. His blindness throws these goals into jeopardy, forcing him to rely heavily on others and reassess his leadership style. It fosters a deeper sense of vulnerability and allows for significant personal growth. He is forced to confront his limitations and learn to trust his team implicitly.
Reimagining Leadership: Dependence and Trust
Mustang’s reliance on his subordinates, particularly Riza Hawkeye, becomes even more critical. He learns to depend on their sharp judgment and unwavering support. Hawkeye essentially becomes his eyes, providing him with the necessary information and guidance to navigate the world. This shift in dynamic highlights the importance of trust and collaboration within a team.
Lasting Implications and the Promise of Restoration
While initially devastated by his blindness, Mustang remains determined to fulfill his promises. Although he struggles with his limitations, he accepts his fate and continues to contribute to the fight against the homunculi. Ultimately, his eyesight is restored near the end of the series, allowing him to finally realize his ambition of becoming Führer. This restoration reinforces the theme of hope and redemption that permeates the Fullmetal Alchemist universe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Roy Mustang’s Blindness
Here are some of the most common questions surrounding Roy Mustang’s loss of sight in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood:
FAQ 1: What is the significance of the Gate of Truth?
The Gate of Truth is a metaphysical doorway that appears when someone attempts human transmutation. It is a repository of all knowledge and requires a sacrifice in exchange for access. This sacrifice is typically a part of the person attempting the transmutation, symbolizing the price of tampering with the natural order.
FAQ 2: Why did Mustang have to sacrifice his eyesight?
Mustang sacrificed his eyesight to gain access to the knowledge necessary to restore Alphonse Elric’s body. He needed to perform a human transmutation, and the Gate of Truth demanded a toll for this transgression.
FAQ 3: How does Mustang cope with being blind?
Mustang relies heavily on his team, particularly Riza Hawkeye, who becomes his “eyes.” He also develops a heightened sense of hearing and touch. He learns to trust his team implicitly and delegates tasks effectively.
FAQ 4: Does Riza Hawkeye ever leave Mustang’s side after he becomes blind?
No, Riza Hawkeye remains fiercely loyal to Mustang and stays by his side throughout his blindness. She acts as his protector, advisor, and trusted confidante, ensuring his safety and effectiveness.
FAQ 5: Was Mustang’s blindness permanent?
Initially, Mustang’s blindness appears permanent. However, through a complex series of events involving alkahestry and the sacrifice of other homunculi, his eyesight is eventually restored.
FAQ 6: What role does Dr. Marcoh play in restoring Mustang’s eyesight?
Dr. Marcoh, an alchemist with knowledge of the Ishvalan war, plays a crucial role in restoring Mustang’s eyesight. He provides the necessary alkahestry and expertise to counteract the effects of the human transmutation.
FAQ 7: How does Mustang’s blindness affect his leadership style?
Mustang’s blindness forces him to become a more collaborative and trusting leader. He relies on his team’s input and delegates more responsibilities, empowering them to take initiative. This ultimately makes him a more effective leader.
FAQ 8: What are the long-term psychological effects of losing his eyesight?
While Mustang displays resilience, the experience of losing his eyesight undoubtedly leaves a psychological scar. He grapples with feelings of vulnerability, dependence, and self-doubt. However, he ultimately emerges stronger and more determined.
FAQ 9: Why is Mustang so determined to kill Envy?
Mustang is driven by an unyielding desire for revenge after learning that Envy murdered Maes Hughes, his closest friend and colleague. The loss of Hughes deeply affects Mustang, pushing him to the brink of moral compromise.
FAQ 10: How does the principle of equivalent exchange relate to Mustang’s blindness?
The loss of Mustang’s eyesight perfectly illustrates the principle of equivalent exchange. He sacrifices his sight to gain the knowledge necessary to restore Alphonse’s body, demonstrating that every act of alchemy comes with a price.
FAQ 11: Did the manga depict Mustang losing his eyesight in the same way as the anime?
Yes, the manga and Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood anime both depict Mustang losing his eyesight during the confrontation with Envy and the subsequent attempt to restore Alphonse. The key plot points remain consistent between the two versions.
FAQ 12: How important is Mustang’s blindness to the overall themes of Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood?
Mustang’s blindness is incredibly important to the overall themes of the series. It explores themes of sacrifice, the consequences of vengeance, the importance of trust, and the potential for redemption. It reinforces the idea that even the most powerful individuals are vulnerable and that true strength lies in collaboration and moral fortitude.