Clive Grimoire is one of the most fascinating characters to emerge in the anime Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation, especially as the central antagonist during the show’s second season. Known for his overwhelming magical prowess and cold, calculating presence, Clive Grimoire quickly establishes himself as a force to be reckoned with. Originally introduced as a member of the elite Seven Great Powers—a group of legendary mages revered across the world—Clive eventually breaks away from them, driven by a personal ambition that goes far beyond mere recognition.
At the heart of Clive Grimoire’s journey is his relentless pursuit of ultimate power. He doesn’t just want to be strong—he wants to surpass even the God of Creation and reshape existence according to his vision. To make this possible, he sets out on a dangerous quest to find the mythical Book of the Dead, an ancient artifact rumored to grant unimaginable strength to whoever possesses it. Clive Grimoire firmly believes that obtaining this book will allow him to fulfill his destiny and bring order to a world he sees as chaotic and flawed.
What makes Clive Grimoire such a compelling figure isn’t just his raw power, but the complexity behind his motives. He genuinely sees himself as a savior, convinced that only someone with his level of strength and intellect can guide the world toward true peace. This sense of purpose fuels his actions, even when they seem cruel or extreme. He’s also highly charismatic and manipulative, using both his influence and strategic mind to gather allies—like the young girl Nidou, who becomes deeply loyal to him. Their bond, surprisingly tender at times, reveals a more nuanced side to Clive Grimoire, showing that beneath his ruthless exterior, there’s room for care and connection.
As the main antagonist, Clive Grimoire stands in direct opposition to Rudeus Greyrat, the series’ protagonist. Their confrontations are intense, blending magical duels with psychological depth, gradually peeling back layers of Clive’s personality. Over time, viewers come to understand that Clive Grimoire isn’t simply evil—he’s shaped by a deep-seated belief in his own righteousness and a desire to control fate itself.
From a psychological standpoint, Clive Grimoire fits the profile of an INTJ personality type. These individuals are known for their strategic thinking, independence, and logical approach to life—all traits that define Clive Grimoire’s behavior. He’s a genius mage who mastered magic at a young age, thrives on intellectual challenges, and plans several steps ahead of his opponents. As an introvert, he rarely shares his inner thoughts, preferring solitude and control over emotional openness. While this might make him appear cold or detached, it’s simply how Clive Grimoire operates—analyzing every situation with precision and reason.
Looking deeper into his motivations, Clive Grimoire also aligns closely with the Enneagram Type 3, often referred to as “The Achiever.” He’s intensely focused on success, status, and being recognized as the best. His need for achievement drives him to take bold risks and push past moral boundaries if necessary. Clive Grimoire wants to be admired, not just feared, and he isn’t shy about showcasing his abilities. However, this relentless ambition sometimes causes him to overlook the people around him, leading to decisions that harm others in the process.
In the end, Clive Grimoire stands out not just because of his power, but because of the depth of his character. Whether you view him as a villain or a tragic anti-hero, there’s no denying that Clive Grimoire leaves a lasting impact on the story. His intelligence, drive, and internal conflicts make him one of the most memorable figures in Mushoku Tensei, and Clive Grimoire’s legacy continues to spark discussion among fans long after his scenes unfold.
I'll forgive you, but I'll never forget.