The basis of portrayal is heavily influenced by the Japanese characterization.
I am salty
♚ Do you agree with fandom interpretation of your character?
With my disclaimer in mind. I absolutely loathe (is there a stronger word than this?
Because if so I need it) the fact that a large portion of the fandom
reduces Gladiolus into an unintelligent muscle-head. That he can barely form
coherent sentences and is near illiterate, despite the fact that he’s shown
reading on so many occasions in the game. Oh wait, it must be because one of
the boys taught him how to read while on the road trip. I wish I was joking
when I tell you I have seen that used explanation to why he reads. Let this interpretation
of him die, yeah?
Let👏It 👏Die👏
Is it the way he speaks that makes this
interpretation prevalent? Because the last time I checked, when I am among my
close friends I speak less formally, with slang and the occasional
expletive.
The way I speak with close friends and family is not how I would speak during
an interview or when making a formal presentation. It’s a bit off putting how
Gladio gets penalized for how he speaks when it’s alright for Prompto to speak
casually. But wait! It’s alright because we know that Prompto went to
school with Noctis. Hang on a second–
Have we forgotten that he has noble
upbringing? Let’s dive into this shall we? House Amicitia, one of the
wealthiest houses in Lucis, can easily be assumed to be an old household. We
know they have been service of the royal family; leading the Crownsguard as
well as becoming the Shield of the King. Gladiolus is eldest son of the
Amicitia family. As in Clarus Amicitia’s son. Not the son of a pauper smith or
soldier, but the son of someone in a very high position with a seat in the
royal counsel. Taking those factors into account:
Old house in Lucis
Son
of a high standing figure.
There is no doubt that the Amicitias were always
under strict scrutiny. I cannot imagine the ridicule and shame that would have
been brought upon the Amicitias, if Gladiolus was uneducated, uncouth, and fell
into the dumb muscle trope. It wouldn’t make any sense. Rather, going along
with line of nobility, he more likely attended the most prestigious academies
in Insomnia, with pressure to maintain excellent academic scores, have
knowledge in military strategy and tactics, as well as undergo rigorous Crownsguard
combat training. Gladiolus is not anywhere close to being uneducated, nor does
he lack social graces.
✘ Any unpopular opinions about your muse?
Gladiolus isn’t callous and uncaring towards Noctis. Again, I’m not sure if this was another thing lost in translation, due to the harsh words and biting tone, but he isn’t “toxic” nor is he an “unsympathetic jock.” I think he cares too much, but more often than not he chooses not to voice this emotional side. He internalizes a lot.
When Insomnia fell he also lost his father and members of his house. Though he doesn’t act upon his emotions. He doesn’t get frantic and mopey. And while you may argue that everyone has different coping mechanisms, I feel that the main reason for Gladiolus not acting out is because it is his job to keep his head in the game. His bond with Noctis is deeper than that of a bodyguard to his lord. Not only is he the protector of the crown, but it is his duty to shoulder the fate of the realm alongside Noctis. He has unwavering faith in his king, but he also understands that Noctis is human and humans are flawed. He even says to Noctis, “When you can’t focus, I focus for you.”
What is often overlooked is the closeness and bond that Noctis and Gladiolus share. Make no mistake of it they are friends. It’s clear by the playful banter and teasing. It’s clear in how Gladio hooks his arm around Noctis’ neck playfully or rustles his hair. How Gladio pats him on the shoulder or back. How excited Gladiolus is to tell Noctis about the Liege of the Lake fishing tour. How in their photos they display silly and playful poses. This is more than just King and bodyguard. They share an undeniable closeness. Gladiolus is bound to Noctis by both duty and love. Be it familial, platonic or romantic, he does care about and love Noctis. Though perhaps his brand of love, is tough love. Gladiolus takes it upon himself to take on the difficult tasks. To shoulder the burdens where he can. Really, no one wants to tell someone who has just lost their father, home and friend to stop being sad, to stop moping. But time is of the essence. Gladiolus knows in order to continue on their journey, Noctis has to have his head on straight and be able to focus for himself as well. Call it a rude awakening, but he’s showing Noctis that he isn’t the only one that has lost something or someone precious. They all have/are making sacrifices. They are all in this together. He is still standing by his side. He has unwavering faith in Noctis and he wants him to also believe in himself.
✎ What do you wish the author would reveal/had revealed about your muse?
Everything? Tell me more about the Amicitia family and their origins. Tell me more about Gladiolus’ relationship with his father Clarus. Tell me more about his Crownsguard training. Just… give me all things Gladiolus.
TL;DR:
Gladiolus is an amazing character with so much depth. Stop reducing him to a callous neanderthal.
@rex-clypeus@dysah: Bless you both for your wonderful works of Gladiolus. I support and agree on your Tweets on Gladiolus as well. You both are Diamonds in the rough!
~My Tumblr Back-Up And Stuffs~ 