Dottore is one of the most compelling and complex figures in the anime series Mechanical Puppet Circus, also known as Karakuri Circus, which originally aired from October 2018 to June 2019. As a central antagonist, Dottore plays a pivotal role in shaping the dark narrative of the show. He’s not just any villain—Dottore stands out as the mastermind behind the enigmatic Royal Ring, an organization shrouded in secrecy and power. What’s more, he’s the creator of Karakuri Shiro, a cursed puppet designed specifically to capture and manipulate Masaru Shirogane, the story’s protagonist. That alone shows how deeply involved Dottore is in the overarching conflict.

Now, when you look at Dottore’s personality, it’s clear he’s far from a one-dimensional bad guy. Sure, he’s intelligent—extremely so—and has a knack for manipulation that makes him both dangerous and fascinating. But what really defines Dottore is his twisted moral compass. He genuinely believes the ends justify the means, even if those means involve sacrificing innocent lives. And yet, despite this ruthlessness, there are moments—subtle but significant—where Dottore reveals empathy, especially toward his subordinates. It adds layers to his character, making Dottore more than just a cold-hearted schemer.

His expertise isn’t limited to psychology or strategy either. Dottore is a master craftsman when it comes to puppets, blending artistry with occult knowledge in ways that feel almost supernatural. This combination of technical skill and arcane understanding further cements his status as a formidable force within the world of Karakuri Circus. Still, much about Dottore remains mysterious—his past, his true motivations, even his origins—are slowly unveiled over time, keeping viewers constantly guessing.

From a psychological standpoint, Dottore exhibits strong signs of being an INTJ personality type. If you’re familiar with personality typology, you’ll know that INTJs are strategic thinkers—visionaries who plan several steps ahead. Dottore fits this mold perfectly. His calm, rational demeanor under pressure, his ability to orchestrate elaborate schemes, and his focus on efficiency all point to classic INTJ traits. He doesn’t act on emotion; he acts on logic, which makes him incredibly effective—but also emotionally distant.

And yes, that emotional detachment is one of Dottore’s defining flaws. While he can be loyal and even protective, he often struggles with empathy. He sees people as pieces on a chessboard, which, while effective for achieving his goals, makes his methods ruthless and, at times, chilling. Still, it’s hard not to admire the sheer intellect behind Dottore’s actions. His mind works like a well-oiled machine, always calculating, always planning.

Looking deeper, Dottore also aligns closely with the Enneagram Type Eight—the Challenger, sometimes called the Protector. This aspect of his personality shines through in his assertiveness, confidence, and relentless drive for control. Dottore doesn’t shy away from power; he embraces it. He wants to be in charge, not just for dominance’s sake, but because he believes he can shape outcomes more effectively than anyone else. When it comes to those he trusts, Dottore becomes fiercely protective, willing to cross moral lines to keep them safe.

But let’s be honest—Dottore’s intensity can be overwhelming. His forceful nature often leads to friction with others, making him seem domineering or intimidating. Yet beneath that tough exterior lies a deep sense of loyalty. He may not show it often, but when he does, it feels genuine. That duality—ruthless planner versus devoted protector—is what makes Dottore such a memorable character.

In the end, Dottore from Mechanical Puppet Circus stands as a multifaceted antagonist whose intelligence, ambition, and inner contradictions drive much of the series’ tension. Whether you see him as a villain, a tragic figure, or something in between, one thing is certain: Dottore leaves a lasting impression. His blend of strategic genius, emotional complexity, and unwavering willpower makes him not just a key player in the story, but a standout character in modern anime storytelling.