Let’s talk about Bernard Châtelet for a moment — he’s one of the standout figures in the beloved anime series The Rose of Versailles (also known as Versailles no Bara). Created by the legendary Riyoko Ikeda, Bernard Châtelet isn’t just another background character; he plays a pivotal role as the main antagonist, and honestly, it’s hard to look away whenever he’s on screen. There’s something undeniably captivating about Bernard — maybe it’s his sharp mind, or perhaps it’s the way he commands every scene with quiet intensity.
Bernard Châtelet is portrayed as a man of immense wealth and privilege, deeply embedded within the French aristocracy during the turbulent years leading up to the French Revolution. He moves through high society with ease, charming those around him with his wit and polished demeanor. But don’t let that smooth exterior fool you — beneath the surface, Bernard Châtelet is calculating, strategic, and always several steps ahead. In fact, you could say he plays life like a game of chess, anticipating moves before anyone else even realizes the game has begun.
What makes Bernard Châtelet such a compelling figure is his complexity. At first glance, he seems like just another aristocrat enjoying the luxuries of Versailles. But as the story unfolds, viewers begin to see the layers beneath — ambition, cold pragmatism, and an unrelenting drive for control. Bernard Châtelet isn’t motivated by personal vendettas alone; he’s driven by a vision, one where power is consolidated and influence is carefully wielded. And while he may be feared by many, there’s also a grudging respect for Bernard Châtelet’s intelligence and resolve.
It’s fair to say that Bernard Châtelet is a character people love to hate. His actions often oppose the protagonists, especially Oscar François de Jarjayes, yet his charisma keeps audiences engaged. There’s a depth to Bernard Châtelet that elevates him beyond a simple villain. He’s not evil for the sake of being evil — his choices stem from ideology, discipline, and a deeply rooted sense of purpose. That’s part of why fans remember Bernard Châtelet long after the final episode.
Now, when we start analyzing Bernard Châtelet from a psychological standpoint, things get even more interesting. Many observers note that Bernard Châtelet exhibits traits commonly associated with the INFJ personality type. INFJs are known for being introspective, idealistic, and deeply empathetic — qualities that might seem at odds with a scheming nobleman, but actually fit Bernard Châtelet surprisingly well. Despite his manipulative tactics, Bernard shows genuine care for certain individuals and demonstrates a commitment to larger causes, particularly the ideals of the French Revolution.
Moreover, Bernard Châtelet’s dedication to justice and reform reflects the core values of an INFJ. He’s willing to step outside his class, form unlikely alliances, and even risk his own safety to support revolutionary efforts. This blend of empathy and strategic thinking defines much of Bernard Châtelet’s behavior. He’s not just playing both sides — he’s trying to shape the future according to his principles, even if it means operating in the shadows.
Then there’s the Enneagram angle. When looking at Bernard Châtelet through this lens, he strongly aligns with Type 1 — the Reformer. Type 1s are guided by a strong moral compass, a desire for integrity, and a relentless pursuit of what they believe is right. Sound familiar? Bernard Châtelet embodies these traits perfectly. He holds himself — and others — to extremely high standards, often criticizing failures with little tolerance for compromise.
His perfectionism isn’t limited to ethics, either. Bernard Châtelet values order, precision, and structure in all aspects of life. Whether it’s his military duties or political maneuvers, everything is meticulously planned. This disciplined approach reinforces his identity as someone who wants to correct injustice and bring about meaningful change — even if his methods are controversial.
So, putting it all together, Bernard Châtelet stands out not just as a memorable antagonist, but as a multidimensional character shaped by intellect, idealism, and inner conflict. While we can’t definitively label fictional personalities, the evidence suggests Bernard Châtelet leans toward being an INFJ with strong Enneagram Type 1 tendencies. These frameworks help us understand why Bernard Châtelet acts the way he does — driven by principle, haunted by imperfection, and constantly striving to leave his mark on history.
In the end, Bernard Châtelet remains one of the most nuanced and thought-provoking characters in The Rose of Versailles. Whether you admire him, despise him, or feel a mix of both, there’s no denying that Bernard Châtelet leaves a lasting impression. And really, isn’t that the mark of a truly great character? Bernard Châtelet certainly thinks so — and honestly, it’s hard to argue with him.
The rose's beauty is a hardy myth that belies its thorny essence.