Created by Leiji Matsumoto in 1977, Captain Harlock embodies the Romantic hero archetype: an individualistic, noble, and taciturn space pirate rebelling against oppressive regimes, terrestrial or alien. His philosophy rejects fighting for external causes, declaring he "fight[s] for no one's sake... only for something deep in [his] heart." He frequently wears clothing bearing the number 42, a Japanese cultural symbol linked to death ("shini"). His lineage traces to the ancient Germanic pirate-knight Harlock clan of Heiligenstadt. Set in the late 30th century (2977 AD), Harlock's story begins amidst humanity's apathy following defeat by alien invaders like the Mazone, plant-based women reclaiming Earth. Defying despair, Harlock commands the starship Arcadia against Earth's oppressors. His origins, detailed in "Arcadia of My Youth," reveal how he acquired the Arcadia and forged a bond with its builder, Tochiro Ōyama. Tochiro's consciousness later merges with the ship's computer after death, becoming a constant presence. A pivotal act—encasing Earth in a protective dark matter field—accidentally renders the planet barren and grants Harlock and his crew immortality, deepening his isolation and burden. Key relationships define him. Miime, a blue-skinned alien from Jura and the last of her species, joins after rescue. Possessing psychic abilities, she serves as confidante and provides medical and emotional support, though her design and backstory vary across adaptations. Tadashi Daiba, a 14-year-old orphan whose scientist father was killed by the Mazone, evolves from conflicted audience surrogate to trusted crew member. Kei Yuki, the Arcadia's navigator and science officer, harbors implied romantic feelings and demonstrates fierce loyalty, notably in the 2013 film where she supports morally ambiguous actions. Other crew include Yattaran (first mate/comic relief), Doctor Zero (chief medical officer), and Miss Masu (chief steward). Harlock's character evolves across narratives. In "Endless Orbit SSX," he battles the Illumidas occupiers, showcasing commitment to Earth's liberation; a defining moment sees him spare villain Dr. Zone, stating "because you and I are both of Earth." "Harlock Saga" reimagines him within Norse mythology, opposing godlike beings. The OVA "Endless Odyssey" depicts a more stoic Harlock willing to kill humans, yet retaining core resistance ideals. The 2013 film presents a significant deviation: planning universal destruction via dimensional bombs to trigger rebirth as a solution to Earth's corruption under the Gaia Sanction. This plan shocks his crew and contrasts his typical ethos. Confronted with evidence of Earth's natural regeneration, he abandons destruction and passes his identity to Yama, symbolizing renewed purpose. Variations exist: "Gun Frontier" features him as a sidekick in an Old West setting; "Cosmo Warrior Zero" casts him as a fugitive hunted by human-machine hybrids. Throughout all media, recurring traits include stoicism, a skull-themed Jolly Roger, and an unwavering commitment to freedom, even when methods or goals temporarily shift.