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The newer generation of anime has introduced more well-written women than those of the past era. Two of those who stand out amongst the more recently released anime series are Momo Ayase from Dandadan and Maomao from The Apothecary Diaries. They almost share similar names and unhinged energy towards their niche interests. The two are also almost equal in their intellect but in ways that are distinct from one another within their circumstances.
Momo Ayase is a smart individual whose independence and tough spirit pull through at pivotal moments. However, we’re often reminded she is a teenager with mood swings and eccentricities but shows incredible maturity and gains perspective pretty quickly. Maomao, on the other hand, is perhaps too blinded by intellect.
The events ofThe Apothecary Diariesdon’t allow much room for her to act based on emotion rather than logic. Maomao was raised by Luomen, a man of great intelligence, so, naturally, she is too. However, her logic also clouds her judgement of others and fails to see what’s right in front of her and ignores what’s in her heart. While Momo often acts impulsively, she apologizes after considering the other person. However, Maomao often doesn’t wish to see the emotional side of things.
Maomao:The Apothecary Diaries’Intelligent But Flawed Protagonist
Maomao might be the Sherlock Holmes of the series and will continue to solve more mysteries, but there’s one area where she doesn’t want to face facts. She doesn’t want to acknowledge her feelings for Jinshi and his towards her, despite his best efforts to woo and get to know her. Their romance, however, is much more precious and natural this way. Theslow burn of itgives a new dimension to Maomao whose life got upturned after her kidnapping. It makes sense why she hasn’t jumped into a romance, believing herself to be “lower” than others.
No More Seinen Exclusive: The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 Is Sitting on a Goldmine That’s Made for the Shonen Crowd
Still, it seems the protagonist also hasn’t picked up on the perspective of others about her dynamic with Jinshi. Gaoshun, who constantly observes and occasionally faces the brunt of their antics, is somewhat of a wingman. Heconstantly passes off his kind actions as Jinshi’sso it should’ve been obvious to the intelligent Maomao. Even those not constantly around them, such as Gyokuyou and the Emperor, see their affection for each other. This is one of her flaws that causes a huge rift in her social life.
Does Momo Surpass Maomao In This Aspect?
The two are truly similar in their flaws. They might be highly intelligent but Momo can jump to conclusions way too fast and act on them, treating Okarun harshly. Meanwhile, Maomao refuses to even see herself as someone desirable to a royal. However, their circumstances cause them to also have these flaws.
Momo and Maomao Being Strong Female Leads Isn’t the Only Reason Why The Apothecary Diaries is the Perfect Romance Anime for Dandadan Fans
While Maomao has her life upturned in the Imperial Palace, Momo is just navigating being a teenager. It’s her first time having a genuine crush on someone nice and misunderstandings happen. She isn’t a flawless female character either so she isn’t in competition with Maomao. If anything, theyboth are inspirations in their own unique ways.
The Apothecary DiariesandDandadanare available on Crunchyroll.
Bidisha Mitra
Articles Published :802
Bidisha is an Anime Content Writer at FandomWire with over 700 published articles. With over 7 years of writing experience, she’s versatile and adept. When she’s not writing, she’s also a voice actor on the side.Bidisha is currently continuing to learn Japanese and gets more fluent everyday. Her expertise is One Piece, Bungo Stray Dogs, and Haikyuu, but has been watching anime for over a decade. She was previously a Content Writer reviewing the latest Kpop music.
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DandadanThe Apothecary Diaries
