Hannibal Lecter

Hannibal Lecter

1695
    The Silence of the Lambs
Photo Credit: Everett Collection

Character Analysis

(Avoiding Spoilers)

Grew Up… in Lithuania during WWII. After being orphaned by a German bomber, Hannibal and his sister were held captive by looters who proceeded to eat Hannibal's sister. Hannibal escaped, but not without severe mental scars. 

Living… in Baltimore State Hospital for the Criminally Insane. He's serving time for murdering and eating at least nine victims. Once a busy man, Hannibal's daily routine is now only broken by brief visits from Clarice Starling, the latest investigator hoping to pick apart his brilliant brain for insight into other serial killers.

Profession… psychiatris with a prestigious degree from John Hopkins. Although he used to counsel others about their mind, Hannibal is in dire need of a medical professional to help him with his own neuroses. 

Interests… a good glass of wine with his liver pâté. If you look past his homicidal inclinations, the good doctor’s an impressively cultured man. Proficienct in multiple languages with a thorough knowledge of the classics, he is quite the Renaissance Man. And let’s not forget his fantastic culinary skills – though it would be prudent to stick to the vegetarian options.

Relationship Status… single. In solitary confinement, Hannibal isn't allowed to touch another person, with his jailer stating that, "I don't believe Lecter's even seen a woman in eight years." While the young Clarice might be "ever his taste," Hannibal's chances of winning her are inhibited by the fact that he's behind bars. And a psychopath.

Challenge… armed guards, FBI agents, and notorious serial killers. In the past, he’s bested them all with ease, and with time to finish dessert afterwards. When it comes to power, there are few who match the bloody majesty of Hannibal Lecter. But despite this, Clarice is a challenge he wasn't quite prepared for. 

Personality… wickedly determined. Maybe he’s not the best role model if you’re looking to walk the straight and narrow. But if you ever need that extra push to go jogging or learn French or just dominate life, then Hannibal’s the man you need. Just think of it this way—it’s survival of the fittest out there. Kill, or be killed; eat, or be eaten as a delicious souffle.

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