Ever Been Bloody Curious...?

I've always wondered... why do anime characters have their blood types listed? And yet, if you've checked out character profiles for Japanese anime characters, so many of them have this bit of information posted, right along with their favorite subjects and love interests. Love interests and favorite subjects, yes, I can see. They tell us about their personality. But blood type? I sincerely doubt any of the senshi will need to undergo blood transfusions... although there was that episode where Makoto's friend gets attacked by a Cardian...

However, a friend o'mine (who happens to know all kinds of trivial facts about Japanese culture) happened to mention the reason for it. And so, I shall impart to you the knowledge I gathered from Seth.

In the Japanese culture, blood types are associated with stereotypical character traits. If you say, "I'm a Scorpio," people will think, "You're naturally secretive." If you say, "I'm a New Yorker," people will think, "You're naturally impolite." If you say, "I was born in the year of the horse," people will think, "You're naturally attractive to the opposite sex." And if you say, "I'm type O," in Japan, people will think, "You're a workaholic." Not knowing your blood type in Japan is like not knowing your astrological sign in the US.

Below is a list of the characteristics associated with each blood type. Remember that while in the US, type O is the most common blood type, in Japan, AB is usually found. And if you compare the senshi with the traits, you'll find that Naoko did a good job of making the blood types compatable with the characters.

Type A

Peope with this blood type are cautious and indecisive, but considerate and helpful. They have great capacity for memorization, and their responsibility, peacefulness, and ability to work with a team makes up for their indecisiveness, outwardly formal personality, and restraint.

Type B

Type B people dislike restrictions and disregard custom. They have to get their own way! But this outward show of strength hides an emotional, sociable, entertaining, and kind person. They are kind and caring, but deep down, are self conscious and lonesome.

Type AB

Such a person is rational and efficient. They tend to be unemotional, analytical, critical Thinkers. They prefer their own company, and don't need to be in a herd of people to be happy. Because of their great mental capacity, they get bored easily. They can be imaginiative, can work well with people when the necessity arises, and contributes to society.

Type O

These people are personally insecure and emotional. Often, they drown themselves in work, because they have a natural sense of purpose. They must always be Doing Something. Type O's are independent, sometimes to the point of being self-centered, and can take chances. Their lives are dramatic and exciting. They dislike subordination, and have a certain amount of directness. Because of their hesitancy to "beat around the bush", they sometimes get on the bad sides of other blood types.

"Ever Wonder Why?"