Character Breakdown - Alphonse Elric

Fullmetal Alchemist always falls back on one central theme, equivalent exchange. The idea that in order to gain something one must first give up something of equal value; Whether this be the trading of money, creating something from raw materials or something more abstract like the phrase 'Be careful what you wish for' implies. Even the First Law of Thermodynamics invokes parts of this. Almost every character in the entire series gives their own view on this ideal at one point or another, whether in support of or in renouncing it.

No character represents this idea more than Alphonse Elric, who we are first introduced to as an empty suit of armour with a voice of a young boy, and quickly we learn that this body was his price. After losing his mother and only parent at the age of 10 he and his brother use the magic of their world, "Alchemy", in a foolish attempt to undo the natural order, committing alchemy’s greatest sin. Alphonse loses his body, with only the quick thinking of his brother and the further sacrifice of his leg saving his soul and trapping it in the suit of armour he now calls his body.

Despite being the younger of the two brothers Alphonse consistently acts more mature than his brash older brother, yet still acts with a childlike playfulness at times, such as having a deep affection for animals that never disappears no matter how bad his situation may get.

The strong and powerful figure he is perceived as quickly gives way to a compassionate and selfless person as soon as he begins to talk and though he frequently proclaims his hatred for his metallic shell of a body he does often fall into an almost knightly persona at times, being vehemently protective and chivalrous when those he cares about are in danger.

Alphonse often professes his desire to experience that which he can no longer; to eat, sleep and simply touch. Alphonse explains how he "just wanted to feel his mother's touch again'" and feels his body is a curse for what he sought, no matter how many others may disagree. And has a disdain for simple things such as a own height, reminding him that he is no longer the boy he once was, and taking great solace in little things such as a strip of fabric attached to his helmet which he affectionately calls his "hair" and is greatly upset when it is lost.

No matter how dark or dangerous the situation may seem Alphonse keeps himself centred through self-assurance of two thoughts; that he and his brother will always be together and that they will both find a way to return to their original bodies. Even when two are separated Alphonse keeps repeating how they will meet up again no matter how long it might take, a thought repeated even up to the end of the series.

My Rough Character notes on Al

A few quick sketches to try and get down Al's body shape

Going for more refined ideas on poses