Episode 5 of the Black Butler: Emerald Witch Arc continues the eerie and mysterious happenings in the isolated German village of Wolfschlucht. The episode delves deeper into the supernatural elements surrounding the Emerald Witch and the werewolves while balancing character development with plot progression.
Ciel’s Vulnerability and Sebastian’s Investigation
Following the werewolf attack, Ciel is in a vulnerable state, expressing uncharacteristic feelings of worthlessness. Sebastian begins a dangerous investigation beneath the Green Manor, potentially changing everything known about the Emerald Witch and her connection to the werewolves.
Ciel’s Trauma
Ciel is seen in bed, expressing feelings that are unusual for him, revealing a vulnerability rarely seen. He questions his worth, indicating the severity of the situation after the werewolf attack. This emotional opening signals that something is wrong with Ciel beyond his physical injuries. The attack seems to have triggered past traumas, leaving him terrified and temporarily blind. He is trapped in a state of fear, remembering the torment he suffered at the hands of a cult.
Wolfram’s Confrontation
Tension builds as Wolfram confronts Sebastian about allowing outsiders to stay at the estate, claiming they are a bad influence on Sieglinde. This reinforces the theme of isolation surrounding the village and Sieglinde, suggesting her sheltered upbringing may be deliberate.
Sebastian’s Discovery
Taking advantage of Wolfram and Sieglinde’s absence, Sebastian investigates a secret area beneath the castle. After breaking through an arcane barrier, he discovers an elaborate chamber containing magical implements, including a staff made of calcite inscribed with symbols in the Theban alphabet. Sebastian’s expression changes to one of realization before he is interrupted, creating a cliffhanger about his discovery and adding another layer to the mystery. His comment about feeling nostalgic hints at his long existence and previous encounters with witchcraft.
Werewolves and Queen Victoria’s Agenda
The episode brings together multiple narrative threads, including Sebastian’s discovery, the nature of the werewolves, Ciel’s psychological struggle, and Queen Victoria’s agenda.
Snake’s Discovery
Snake makes a crucial discovery, reporting that one of the village women smells of werewolf. This suggests the werewolves might be humans using some form of disguise or transformation, dramatically changing the nature of the threat. Oscar’s discovery that Anne smells like a werewolf raises questions about the connection between the women and the werewolves.
Queen Victoria’s Involvement
Queen Victoria receives a plant analysis report that Ciel managed to send, confirming he had made progress in his investigation despite his incapacitation. Her disturbing interaction with a doll reveals her unstable mental state as she declares she must get rid of the scary wolves, suggesting a violent solution. John Brown arrives with a letter from the Queen, suggesting the investigation is about to take a more official turn. The Queen’s mysterious agenda is further highlighted by her dispatching of John Brown.
Themes and Visuals
The episode continues to build on the theme of isolation, with the village’s determination to drive out outsiders contrasting with hints that the real threat may come from within. The visual presentation, especially in the ritual sequence, creates a mystical ambiance that enhances the storytelling. The dreamlike quality of Ciel’s internal struggle uses lighting and perspective to create a sense of psychological distress.
Isolation
The village’s determination to keep outsiders away is a key theme. Wolfram is questioned by the village women for allowing Ciel and his household to stay, highlighting the villagers’ apprehension towards outsiders.
Visual Storytelling
The episode uses visual elements to enhance the storytelling, such as the lighting and costume design in the ritual sequence. The combination of atmospheric lighting, elaborate costume design, and traditional animation creates a mystical ambiance. The dreamlike quality of Ciel’s internal struggle uses lighting and perspective to create a sense of psychological distress that complements the dialogue.
Unanswered Questions and Speculations
The episode raises several questions:
- What did Sebastian discover in the secret chamber?
- What does the Queen’s letter contain?
- Will Ciel overcome the werewolf’s myasma?
- Are the women of the village the werewolves, or do they cohabitate?
- What is Wolfram’s role, and why is he allowed in the village despite being a man?
- What will the analysis of the plant reveal?
The episode leaves viewers eager to learn what Sebastian discovered, what the Queen’s letter contains, and whether Ciel will recover. The true nature of the werewolves remains a mystery, with the possibility that they are humans using transformation.
Overall
Episode 5 masterfully balances character development, plot progression, and visual storytelling, setting up shocking revelations about Queen Victoria’s motives and the secrets within the Sullivan estate. The episode leaves viewers with several unanswered questions and a sense of anticipation for the next episode.
