Why Meliodas Should Be Pulled to Wrath, Not Lust

Have you ever stopped to wonder why Meliodas, the charismatic and powerful character from The Seven Deadly Sins, is associated with the sin of wrath instead of lust? While it is true that Meliodas has a romantic side and a strong affection for Elizabeth, this aspect of his character is not the primary reason for his assigned sin. In this article, we will explore why Meliodas' sin should indeed be wrath and not lust, and how this classification impacts the narrative of the series.

Understanding Meliodas' Wrath

Meliodas, as the Dragon of Wrath, embodies the traits of his sin in several key ways. His protective nature and fierce reactions to threats against those he cares about are hallmarks of his wrathful disposition. His character arc delves deeply into themes of anger and vengeance, particularly as he confronts the tragedies from his past. This focus on wrath is central to his development and the overall conflict of the series.

Let's consider the thematic and narrative elements that support the classification of Meliodas as the Dragon of Wrath:

Protective Nature: Meliodas' chosen path and his character arc are deeply rooted in his fierce protectiveness. This is evident in how he defends his comrades and allies from any perceived threats, often reacting with impulsive and forceful actions. Anger and Vengeance: The series frequently showcases Meliodas' anger and the desire for vengeance that drive his actions. His past experiences, particularly the loss of his kingdom and loved ones, fuel his wrathful resolve. Character Development: The classification of Meliodas as the Dragon of Wrath is a crucial element of his character development. This sin drives him to make choices and take actions that have significant consequences, shaping his journey and the overarching story.

The Myths and Realities of Meliodas' Sins

Some argue that Meliodas' behavior with Elizabeth suggests an association with lust rather than wrath. However, while it is true that Meliodas has a romantic side, his interactions with Elizabeth do not fulfill the deeper definition of lust. Lust, as a sin, is characterized by an uncontrollable desire for physical pleasure and often involves a disregard for consequences. Meliodas' affection for Elizabeth, while strong, is rooted in a deeper, more boundless love that is not solely driven by physical attraction.

Comparing Meliodas to the other characters can provide additional context. Just as Ban and Diane were falsely accused of sins they did not commit, Meliodas' notoriety stems from a specific event that does not accurately represent his true nature. For example, Meliodas' infamous act of wrath involves the destruction of the kingdom of Danafal, but his motivations and methods are more aligned with a desire for vengeance and protection, rather than purely sexual urges.

Why Wrath Trumps Lust

There are several compelling reasons why Meliodas' sin should be wrath rather than lust:

Central Objective: The classification of sins in The Seven Deadly Sins serves to highlight key aspects of each character’s struggles and growth. Wrath as a sin is more aligned with the themes of anger, vengeance, and protection that drive Meliodas' motivations and actions. Story Direction: Aligned with the series' narrative device, the sin of wrath provides a more fitting context for Meliodas' character development and the overarching story. This sin drives his internal conflict and external confrontations, making his journey more meaningful and impactful. Character Consistency: Meliodas' behavior with Elizabeth, while romantic, does not reflect the uncontrollable and selfish nature of true lust. His actions are driven by love, duty, and a desire to protect, which aligns more closely with wrath than lust.

The Misconception of Lust

Many seem to believe that Meliodas' desire for Elizabeth is indicative of lust. However, as mentioned earlier, his interactions are more rooted in deep affection and a desire for intimacy born from a genuine connection. Lust, as a sin, involves a disregard for personal and global consequences, which Meliodas does not exhibit.

Take the example of Ban, whose sin of Greed was a false accusation based on a demon's actions. Similarly, Diane's sin of Envy was also a false accusation. This suggests that the characters' sins are sometimes misrepresented by the public, and the actual sins they commit do not always align with their public perception.

Conclusion

While Meliodas does exhibit romantic tendencies, his sin should be classified as wrath rather than lust. His character development, motives, and actions are more closely aligned with a sin of wrath that drives his protective nature and desire for vengeance. This classification strengthens the narrative and thematic elements of the series, making Meliodas a more complex and compelling character.