The First War
The rebellion where a demon chose humanity over Hell.
The First War refers to the ancient and pivotal conflict between the forces of Hell and humanity, spearheaded by the demon warrior Sparda against the Devil King Mundus. This legendary battle determined the separation of realms and established the fragile peace that defines the series timeline. It is the foundational mythos explaining why demons seek to invade Earth and why the descendants of Sparda possess the power to stop them. This event occurred centuries before the birth of Dante or Vergil, setting the stage for all subsequent demonic incursions. The outcome created a barrier between worlds that has been repeatedly tested by villains throughout history.
Quick Facts
- Combatants
- Sparda vs. Mundus and Devil Army
- Outcome
- Human Victory; Seal Established
Lore & Background
Sparda was originally a powerful demon who rejected the tyranny of Mundus, the King of Hell. Unlike his kin, he valued human life and freedom, leading to an open revolt against the underworld hierarchy. This war was not merely physical but ideological, challenging the natural order where demons viewed humans as prey. Sparda's victory forced the Devil Army back into their own dimension. Following the conflict, Sparda hid his power and lived among humans, eventually marrying Eva. He forged a seal over the gate to Hell in Fortuna to ensure his sons could live without fear of demonic invasion. However, the legacy of this war created a target on their backs, as demons never forgot the demon who betrayed them for humanity.
Elsewhere in Devil May Cry
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