Violet Evergarden I: Eternity and the Auto Memory Doll 2020
Directed by
Haruka Fujita
Made by
Kyoto Animation
Plot Summary
Violet Evergarden is tasked by the Drossel royal family to attend a distinguished girls’ boarding school, where she is to assist a student named Isabella York in her debutante training. As Violet spends time with Isabella, it becomes increasingly evident that she feels out of place at the school, struggling to acclimate to the environment and showing little interest in pursuing the traditional skills expected of her. To make matters worse, Isabella suffers from bouts of illness, marked by coughing fits that impede her daily activities.
Initially, Isabella is skeptical of Violet, but her perception shifts once she discerns that Violet does not regard her aristocratic lineage with awe. In a moment of vulnerability, Isabella opens up to Violet about her past, revealing that she was born as Amy Bartlett, an illegitimate child of the York family. Having experienced life in poverty, she had even adopted a young orphan named Taylor as her sister. Eventually, the York family tracked her down, offering her a chance at a new life in exchange for a better future for Taylor. With a heavy heart, Isabella accepted their proposition, knowing she would struggle to provide for Taylor on her own. Per Isabella’s request, Violet composes a heartfelt letter for Taylor, marking the completion of her initial task before returning to Leiden. This letter is delivered by Benedict Blue to Taylor, who resides in an orphanage.
Fast forward three years, and Taylor embarks on a journey to find the CH Postal Company in Leiden, where she is eager to meet Violet and become a postman herself. Despite hesitating to employ a child, Claudia Hodgins approves Violet’s plea to allow Taylor to work there temporarily until arrangements can be made for her return to the orphanage, assigning Benedict to mentor her. Shortly thereafter, during their delivery runs, Benedict discovers that Taylor cannot read, which poses a significant obstacle in her new role. Recognizing the importance of literacy, Violet steps in to teach Taylor how to read and write.
On their subsequent delivery route, Taylor shares her aspiration of becoming a postman with Violet, expressing her desire to “deliver happiness,” much like Benedict did when he brought Isabella’s letter to her. Together, they pen a letter addressed to Isabella, and Benedict commits to finding her for delivery. With a new motorcycle obtained from Hodgins, Benedict takes Taylor along on the mission to reunite her with Isabella. However, Taylor decides to wait to meet Isabella until she has earned her place as a genuine postman, hoping to deliver her letters independently. In the end, Taylor is adopted by the Evergarden family, while Violet and Benedict continue to fulfill their duties at the postal company, further extending their journey of connection and hope.
Timeline
Violet's New Mission
Violet Evergarden is given a new assignment by the Drossel royal family. She is tasked to assist Isabella York at a distinguished girls' boarding school, focusing on her debutante training.
Isabella's Struggles
As Violet spends time with Isabella, it becomes clear that Isabella feels out of place at the boarding school. She struggles with the expectations of high society and shows little interest in the traditional skills being taught.
Isabella's Illness
Isabella faces additional challenges as she suffers from frequent coughing fits due to her illness. These episodes often hinder her ability to participate in her daily activities and training.
Bonding with Violet
Initially skeptical of Violet, Isabella's opinion changes when she realizes Violet does not idolize her aristocratic background. This breakthrough leads Isabella to confide in Violet about her true identity and past.
The Secret Past
Isabella shares her past as Amy Bartlett, born an illegitimate child. She recounts her experiences of poverty and her decision to adopt a young orphan named Taylor as her sister.
A Difficult Choice
Faced with an offer from the York family for a new life, Isabella must reluctantly accept their terms, knowing it means sacrificing her ability to care for Taylor alone. This decision signifies a turning point in her life.
Writing a Letter
Before departing the boarding school, Isabella requests Violet to write a heartfelt letter for Taylor. This act of love marks the completion of her initial mission and shows the bond they have formed.
Taylor's Journey
Three years later, Taylor embarks on a journey to find the CH Postal Company in Leiden. Eager to meet Violet, she wishes to become a postman herself, reflecting her determination and growth.
Acquiring a Position
Despite her young age, Claudia Hodgins allows Taylor to work temporarily at the postal company. Violet advocates for Taylor, highlighting her potential and aspirations.
Reading Challenges
During delivery runs with Benedict, it is discovered that Taylor cannot read, which poses a significant challenge for her new role. Violet recognizes the importance of literacy and steps in to help Taylor.
Aspirations of a Postman
On their delivery route, Taylor shares her dream of becoming a postman to deliver happiness, inspired by Benedict's previous actions. Together, they draft a letter to Isabella, signifying Taylor's connection to her past.
Journey to Isabella
Benedict, with a new motorcycle provided by Hodgins, vows to reunite Taylor with Isabella. This journey becomes a significant moment of growing independence for Taylor.
Waiting for the Right Time
Despite her eagerness to meet Isabella, Taylor decides to delay their reunion until she earns her place as a genuine postman. This decision reflects her ambition and self-reliance.
A New Family
In a heartwarming conclusion, Taylor is adopted by the Evergarden family, establishing her place within a new home. This signifies the culmination of her journey and the formation of lasting bonds.
Continuing the Legacy
As Taylor embarks on a new chapter, Violet and Benedict continue their work at the postal company. Their dedication to delivering letters symbolizes their ongoing journey of connection and hope for the future.
Characters
Isabella York
Initially portrayed as a privileged and sickly young woman, Isabella's character evolves as she reveals her complex past and inner struggles. Her vulnerability and desire for connection make her relatable, as she seeks to find her identity beyond her aristocratic facade.
Violet Evergarden
Violet is depicted as a determined individual navigating her role in a traditionally elite environment. Her straightforward demeanor contrasts with the expectations of her society, showcasing her growth as she learns the value of emotional connections.
Taylor
A young orphan driven by aspiration, Taylor embodies hope and determination to break free from her circumstances. Her journey to become a postman highlights resilience and the importance of literacy, emphasizing her desire to make her mark on the world.
Benedict Blue
As a mentor and bridge between characters, Benedict represents support and guidance. His kindness towards Taylor demonstrates his commitment to nurturing young talents, emphasizing the role of community in fostering personal growth.
Claudia Hodgins
Claudia plays a supportive role, enabling Taylor's entry into the postal company. His willingness to assist showcases his belief in second chances and the importance of nurturing potential, reflecting his broader understanding of human connections.
Setting
Time period
The story unfolds in a time reflecting societal expectations and norms, where aristocracy dictates personal destinies. Themes of class disparity and personal ambition resonate deeply in the pursuits and backgrounds of the characters.
Location
Drossel, Leiden
Drossel is known for its prestigious royal family and grand societal norms, often epitomized by elite educational institutions. Leiden represents a bustling hub of communication and connection, being the center for the CH Postal Company, where personal letters and messages bridge emotional distances.
Themes
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Connection
The theme of connection is central to the story, highlighting how letters can forge relationships and convey emotions. Violet's efforts to help Isabella and later teach Taylor demonstrate the bridging of past and future through communication.
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Societal Expectations
The film explores the weight of societal expectations through Isabella's struggle with her aristocratic lineage and Violet's discomfort within elite society. It challenges notions of nobility and reveals the hidden burdens of those within privileged environments.
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Growth and Education
Education emerges as a powerful theme as Violet teaches Taylor to read and write, embodying the belief that knowledge is pivotal for personal growth. This interaction illustrates the importance of self-reliance and the pursuit of one's dreams despite obstacles.
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