Edelgard von Hresvelg

Lore & Background

Edelgard begins as an ally and later student of the protagonist Byleth, but a mid-game plot twist reveals her to be the Flame Emperor, a guise under which she plots to overthrow the Church of Seiros and conquer Fódlan to create a society where Crests do not determine social status. She is willing to wage war and ally with the mysterious faction Those Who Slither in the Dark to achieve her ambitions. If the player chooses to teach the Black Eagles and meets certain requirements, they can join her cause, making her the main protagonist of her route; otherwise, she becomes a main antagonist.

Reader's Guide

Edelgard is one of the most popular characters in Three Houses, praised for her characterization but also criticized for instigating the war that drives the latter half of each story path. Her story path, Crimson Flower, has been praised for its grey morality, though some have criticized its short length and rushed presentation. Critics have compared her to Daenerys Targaryen, noting her intense, driven nature and willingness to pay any price for her goals. Some reviewers argue she is morally justified, while others call her philosophy hypocritical and destructive. The optional romance between Edelgard and Byleth was noted as a touching scene but criticized for being nearly identical regardless of Byleth's gender. Her appearances extend to Fire Emblem Heroes, Fire Emblem Engage, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Tetris 99, and WarioWare: Get It Together!, as well as a Good Smile Company Figma.

Did You Know?

• Edelgard's hair turned from brown to white due to childhood experiments to give her two Crests.
• She was the only survivor of ten siblings subjected to the same experiments.
• In Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes, she cuts ties with Those Who Slither in the Dark rather than working with them.
• Her theme song, The Edge of Dawn, is written from her point of view and conveys conflicted emotions about her actions.