Mariko

Advertisement

Kurama

A complex character in Elf Song

Personality

Mariko Kurama, also known as Number 35, is a character in the anime series Elfen Lied. Despite her tragic upbringing and the inhumane experiments she was subjected to, Mariko has a relatively well-developed psychological state. She exhibits extreme homicidal and sadistic tendencies, and takes pleasure in torturing and dismembering her victims. However, her personality is not purely evil; she approaches her actions with a childlike sense of joy, akin to playing with toys.

Background

Mariko’s background in Elf Song is deeply intertwined with that of her father, Kurama. She is Kurama’s daughter and was born a Silpelit, a third-generation Diclonius. Mariko’s birth was the result of Kurama being infected with the Diclonius virus when he was attacked by Number Three, who was actually Nana’s sister. The research institute that conducted the experiments on Diclonius subjects imprisoned Mariko as an infant and raised her in isolation in a steel container. Her only human contact came in the form of a scientist who acted as her foster mother through loudspeakers and monitors. This isolation and mistreatment contributed to her physical impairment, as she uses a wheelchair due to atrophied limbs.

Appearance

Mariko has a unique appearance in Elfenlied. She is portrayed as a young girl with short silver hair and piercing red eyes. Due to her physical limitations, she relies on a wheelchair for mobility. Her appearance contrasts with her innocent and fragile demeanor, hiding the immense power she possesses as a Diclonius.

Abilities

Mariko’s status as a Diclonius grants her extraordinary abilities. In the anime, she possesses 33 vectors, each with an approximate range of 11 meters (the number and range are higher in the manga). These vectors are invisible arms that extend from her body and can be used as deadly weapons. With her vectors, Mariko can effortlessly tear through objects and people, demonstrating her immense strength. Her abilities make her one of the most powerful Diclonius characters in the series.

Origin

Mariko Kurama’s origins are rooted in the experimentation and manipulation conducted by the Research Institute. As a “third-generation” Silpelit, she is a unique case, born not from a Diclonius but from a Silpelit infected by another Silpelit. Her existence as the only surviving third-generation Silpelit further emphasizes her rarity and importance within the narrative of Elfenlied.

Mariko Kurama – FAQ

FAQ about Mariko Kurama of “Elf Song

Who is Mariko Kurama?
Mariko Kurama is a character from the anime and manga series “Elf Song”. She is a Diclonius, a humanoid species with telekinetic abilities and invisible arm-like appendages called Vectors. Mariko is one of the main antagonists in the series.
What are Mariko’s abilities?
Mariko has immense telekinetic powers and vectors, which are invisible arms that she can manipulate to attack and defend herself. Her vectors are incredibly powerful and can cause considerable destruction. She can also create a powerful electromagnetic field.
What is Mariko’s role in “Elf Song”?
Mariko serves as one of the main antagonists in Elf Song. She is a subject of experimentation and abuse, created for the purpose of being a weapon. Mariko’s story revolves around her search for freedom and understanding of her own identity.
How does Mariko’s character develop over the course of the series?
Mariko’s character undergoes significant development in “Elf Song. Initially portrayed as a cold and emotionless killer, she gradually reveals a more vulnerable side as the series progresses. Her interactions with other characters and her desire for love and acceptance contribute to her character growth.
What is Mariko’s relationship to the other characters in the series?
Mariko has complex relationships with various characters in “Elf Song”. She has a complicated relationship with the main protagonist, Lucy/Nyu. Mariko’s interactions with other Diclonius characters such as Nana and Kurama, her father figure, also shape her relationships throughout the series.
Does Mariko have a tragic background?
Yes, Mariko has a tragic past. She was subjected to cruel experiments and suffered abuse as a test subject. Her upbringing and treatment contribute to her complex emotions and actions throughout the series.