TV-Series
Description
Astaroth is a prominent supporting character in the anime Devils and Realist, known as the Eastern Grand Duchess of Hell. As a high-ranking demon, she holds the position of one of the four great dukes under the direct command of Lucifer and commands forty legions of demon troops, placing her among the most powerful and influential figures in the demonic hierarchy. Her rank is the twenty-ninth of Solomons seventy-two pillars, and she is considered to be as strong as the demon Beelzebub.

In terms of appearance, Astaroth is depicted as a dark-skinned woman with long black hair that reaches her waist and striking yellow eyes. Her attire often includes a crop top and opera gloves, and she may be seen with tattoos and a cape, projecting an aura of regal authority and dangerous elegance. Her voice and demeanor carry the weight of her ancient and powerful status.

Astaroths background is deeply intertwined with human history and demonic politics. Her previous incarnation was Hatshepsut, the Queen of Egypt, who was also an ancestor of the biblical King Solomon. This connection to Solomon is significant, as the narrative of Devils and Realist revolves heavily around Solomons legacy and the search for his successor. Her past as a mortal queen informs her perspective and actions, giving her a unique understanding of humanity that many other demons lack. She was also formerly the wife of Beelzebub, another of the four great dukes of Hell, and is the mother of a character named Lamia.

Astaroths personality is marked by a certain ancient laziness, a characteristic noted in her demonic lore, but this does not diminish her cunning or her fierce protectiveness. She is a strategist and a guardian, playing a crucial role as the one who nominated Dantalion, the protagonist William Twinnings butler and a high-ranking demon, as a candidate for the substitute king of Hell. This act demonstrates her long-term planning and her interest in shaping the future of Hell. Her primary motivation appears to be the stability and continuation of her domain, as well as the success of her chosen candidate. She is the leader of the Nephilim, a group of beings with mixed angelic and human heritage, further solidifying her role as a commander and ruler.

Key relationships define much of her role in the story. Her connection to Dantalion is that of a guardian and patron; she is the one who elevated him and continues to watch over his actions, suggesting a deep investment in his success or a specific outcome she desires. Her history with Beelzebub, as his former wife, adds a layer of complex political and personal history among the upper echelons of Hell. While the anime does not extensively explore her daily interactions, her status as the mother of Lamia also ties her to the next generation of demons.

Astaroths notable abilities are extensive, befitting a Duke of Hell. She possesses vast knowledge, including insight into the past and future, and can discover secrets. In the context of the series, her power is respected to the point of being considered equal to Beelzebub, which places her at the pinnacle of demonic strength. She commands forty legions of demons and leads the Nephilim, showcasing her authority and military might. Her ability to nominate a candidate for the substitute king also implies she holds significant political power and influence over the succession of the throne of Hell. Throughout the series, her development is subtle; she remains a powerful, enigmatic force who operates largely from the background, her true goals and the full extent of her power only partially revealed as she maneuvers to influence the main conflict over Solomons legacy.