In 'The Rose of Versailles', the story unfolds against the backdrop of the opulent court of Versailles during the tumultuous years leading up to the French Revolution. At the center of this historical drama is Lady Oscar François de Jarjeyes, portrayed by the talented Reiko Tajima. Raised from birth as a man to fulfill her father's wish, Lady Oscar has been molded into a fierce and loyal commander of the palace guards. Her striking beauty and noble spirit not only captivate those around her but also set her apart as a luminous figure in a world dominated by societal expectations. Despite her revered status, Lady Oscar finds herself at a crossroads, her life caught in a struggle between her overwhelming sense of duty to her country and her own burgeoning desires, presenting an intricate portrait of a woman bound by the constraints of her class and upbringing.
Alongside Lady Oscar is the famed Marie Antoinette, brought to life by Miyuki Ueda. As the reigning queen, Marie embodies the excesses and challenges of noble life at Versailles, yet she is also portrayed with depth and emotion. Their interactions provide insight into the contrasting lives of royalty and the common people. While Marie indulges in the luxury of her position, Oscar's sharp, compassionate eyes perceive the growing unrest outside the palace walls. This duality creates a rich tension, as Oscar must balance her obligation to the crown with her empathy for the multitude of struggling citizens—a reflection of the broader socio-political landscape brewing in France but largely ignored by the privileged elite.
As the narrative unfolds, 'The Rose of Versailles' deftly explores themes of identity, loyalty, and social justice, emphasizing the inner turmoil of a woman who must navigate the treacherous waters of power and passion. Lady Oscar's journey is one of self-discovery as she grapples with the expectations placed upon her and the desires she harbors within. The emotional landscape is beautifully rendered, showcasing not only the glamour of court life but also the human struggles that lie beneath the surface. In a time of looming revolution, Oscar's story resonates as both a personal tale of conflict and a broader commentary on the societal upheavals of the era.
Full Cast of The Rose of Versailles
Reiko Tajima
Oscar François de Jarjeyes
Reiko Tajima's portrayal of Oscar François de Jarjeyes in the classic anime television series "The Rose of Versailles" (also known as "Berusaiyu no Bara" or "Lady Oscar") is widely regarded as iconic within the anime community. Her performance breathes life into the complex character of Oscar, a woman raised as a man who serves as a commander of the palace guards at Versailles during the tumultuous period preceding the French Revolution. Tajima captures Oscar's inner turmoil and growth with a nuanced delivery, showcasing her strength, honor, andeventual awakening to the social injustices of her time. Her voice work is a blend of aristocratic poise and passionate fervor, perfectly embodying the character's dual identity and the poignant struggles that come with it. Tajima's portrayal of Oscar's journey from loyalty to the monarchy to her embrace of the revolutionary cause is both compelling and emotionally resonant, making her rendition of the character one of the most memorable in anime history.
Miyuki Ueda
Marie Antoinette
Tarō Shigaki
André Grandier
Nachi Nozawa
Hans Axel von Fersen
Nachi Nozawa delivered a captivating performance as Hans Axel von Fersen in the classic anime television series "The Rose of Versailles" (Berusaiyu no Bara), which originally aired in 1979. As the dashing and enigmatic Swedish count, Nozawa infused von Fersen with a compelling blend of charisma, sophistication, and a deep sense of loyalty, making him one of the most memorable characters in the series. His portrayal brimmed with emotional complexity, showcasing von Fersen's struggle between his dutiful commitment to his homeland and his profound, yet doomed, affection for Marie Antoinette. Nozawa's performance was pivotal in highlighting the character's nuanced relationships and his pivotal role in the unfolding drama of the French Revolution, as seen through the lens of this historical fiction. His rich, resonant voice and nuanced delivery brought depth to the character, making von Fersen's fiery determination and gentle vulnerability resonate with audiences, and leaving a lasting impression that has contributed to the enduring legacy of "The Rose of Versailles" in the annals of anime history.
Rihoko Yoshida
Rosalie Lamorlière
Rihoko Yoshida delivered a memorable performance as Rosalie Lamorlière in the iconic anime television series "The Rose of Versailles" (also known as "Berusaiyu no Bara"). As Rosalie, Yoshida brought depth and warmth to the character, portraying her as a young woman of humble origins who becomes a close confidante and servant to the protagonist, Marie Antoinette. Yoshida's voice acting captured Rosalie's duality—her unwavering loyalty to the French aristocracy, coupled with her internal struggle and empathy towards the common people during the tumultuous times of the French Revolution. Her nuanced performance highlighted Rosalie's kindness, strength, and moral compass, making her a relatable and endearing figure to audiences. Yoshida's portrayal of Rosalie's emotional journey, from her initial innocence to her growth into a courageous and compassionate individual, added a layer of humanity to the grand historical tapestry of "The Rose of Versailles," ensuring that Rosalie Lamorlière remained an unforgettable character within the beloved classic.
Yoneko Matsukane
Jeanne de la Motte
Yoneko Matsukane delivered a captivating portrayal of Jeanne de la Motte in the influential television anime "The Rose of Versailles" (also known as "Berusaiyu no Bara" or "Lady Oscar"). As the conniving and ambitious Jeanne, Matsukane brought a complex blend of charm, cunning, and desperation to the character, whose schemes and manipulations are central to the series' intricate plot. Her performance was marked by a voice that seamlessly shifted from sweet and alluring to fiercely determined and back again, mirroring Jeanne's chameleonic nature. Matsukane's nuanced vocal work was instrumental in bringing depth to Jeanne's character, making her one of the most memorable and multifaceted antagonists in classic anime. Her portrayal added a layer of sophistication to the already rich tapestry of "The Rose of Versailles," contributing to the series' enduring legacy as a trailblazer in the shoujo genre.
Yoshito Yasuhara
Louis XVI
Keaton Yamada
Alain de Soissons
Hisashi Katsuta
Louis XV
Reiko Mutoh
Countess Polignac
Ryoko Kinomiya
Madame du Barry
Hisako Kyoda
Nana
Osamu Ichikawa
Duke Orléans
Junkichi Yarita
Cardinal Rowan
Mariko Akino
Pierre (voice)
Crew of The Rose of Versailles
Full backstage crew list →