Madame Suliman is one of the most compelling figures in Howl’s Moving Castle, the beloved anime film directed by Hayao Miyazaki. As a powerful sorceress, Madame Suliman stands out not just for her magical prowess but also for the depth she brings to the story. Right from the start, it’s clear that Madame Suliman isn’t someone to be taken lightly—she’s a major force in the world of the film, and her presence shifts the dynamics whenever she appears.

In fact, Madame Suliman serves as a key antagonist to Howl, the enigmatic protagonist, though their conflict isn’t simply black and white. At first, both try to avoid direct confrontation, each operating in their own sphere. But as events unfold, Madame Suliman becomes more entangled in Howl’s life, leading to a dramatic clash of wills and magic. Their rivalry escalates into a high-stakes magical battle that puts everything at risk, showing just how evenly matched they are in power and skill. It’s during these moments that Madame Suliman truly shines—her spells are precise, commanding, and often involve mind control, demonstrating a level of mastery few can rival.

Now, while Madame Suliman comes across as stern, authoritative, and even intimidating, there’s far more beneath the surface. She carries a reputation for being strict and uncompromising, especially with those under her command, and many fear her no-nonsense attitude. Yet, despite her harsh exterior, Madame Suliman has a soft spot that defines much of her motivation: her deep love for magical creatures. This compassion reveals a more layered side to her character. She isn’t merely a power-hungry authority figure; she genuinely wants to protect these beings from human exploitation and war, which adds emotional weight to her actions.

It’s this complexity that makes Madame Suliman such an intriguing character. On one hand, she’s a fearsome opponent—intelligent, strategic, and unyielding. On the other, she’s driven by a sense of duty and protection, particularly toward the vulnerable magical species she feels responsible for. And when you look closer at her personality, certain patterns emerge. For instance, Madame Suliman seems to fit the INTJ personality type quite well. She’s highly analytical, thinks several steps ahead, and approaches problems with logic rather than emotion. Whether orchestrating political maneuvers or casting intricate spells, Madame Suliman relies on careful planning and foresight.

Her introverted nature is evident too—she doesn’t seek companionship or approval, preferring solitude and focused work. That intuitive side allows her to see truths others miss, like recognizing Howl’s true form when no one else could. However, this same strength can become a weakness. Her tendency to stick rigidly to her plans sometimes blinds her to alternative perspectives. Her relentless pursuit of Howl, for example, shows how her determination can border on inflexibility, making compromise difficult.

From an Enneagram standpoint, Madame Suliman aligns closely with Type 8—the Challenger. This type thrives on control, independence, and justice, all of which define her behavior. She refuses to be dominated by anyone, asserts her authority without hesitation, and isn’t afraid to use force when necessary. But again, her motivations aren’t purely about dominance. Underneath, Madame Suliman acts as a protector—of her country, of magic itself, and of those who can’t defend themselves. Her fierce sense of justice fuels her actions, even when they seem extreme.

So, while Madame Suliman may initially come across as cold or authoritarian, her character is anything but one-dimensional. The way she balances raw power with genuine care, strategic thinking with emotional conviction, makes her a standout figure in the narrative. And let’s be honest—without Madame Suliman, the story would lack much of its tension and moral complexity.

Ultimately, Madame Suliman from Howl’s Moving Castle is a masterfully crafted character whose influence stretches beyond simple hero-versus-villain dynamics. Whether viewed through the lens of personality types or narrative role, Madame Suliman remains a symbol of strength, intelligence, and deeply rooted principles. She commands attention, inspires both fear and respect, and leaves a lasting impression long after the credits roll.