Why Was the Truth of the Promised Day Concealed in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood?

In the animated series Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, the truth of the day of promised transmutation is concealed. This decision by Father is not without its reasons. To better understand the rationale behind Father's actions, we must delve into the potential consequences of revealing this truth to the public and the strategic choices made by the main characters.

The Potential Risks of Public Knowledge

Father, the creator of the Philosopher's Stone, realized the immense power and potential for devastation that the Stone could bring if it fell into the wrong hands. To prevent an "all-out riot," he decided to conceal the truth.

Public Riot or Collective Panic

Imagine the worst-case scenario: Amestris, with all its citizens, would be made aware of the impending catastrophe on the Promised Day. What would happen next?

If the Amestrian government discovered the full extent of the truth, there would likely be a massive panic. The people, fearing for their lives and property, might take up arms and storm Central, undermining the military authority and potentially leading to social chaos. Alternatively, the people might decide to flee the country en masse, abandoning their homes and possessions in fear. Such a mass exodus would create a humanitarian crisis and destabilize the nation.

Father's Strategic Decision

Father's choice to conceal the truth was a calculated one. By keeping the information secret, he aimed to prevent such extreme actions and ensure the stability and secrecy of his plan. A widespread riot or mass exodus would not only disrupt the state but also expose his hand, negating the benefits of his complex and delicate scheme.

The Main Characters' Struggle with Time and Proof

For the main characters, including Edward Elric and his brother, Alphonse, the challenge was not just in revealing the truth but in convincing the entire country that the Homunculi were using Winry and others as hostages out of fear of exposure.

Lack of Time and Evidence

The protagonists of the series did not have the luxury of ample time and enough proof to convince the entire nation of the Promised Day and the existence of the Homunculi acting as pawns. Their efforts to uncover the truth were often hindered by obstacles such as:

Limited Information: Access to crucial information was restricted, and the Homunculi went to great lengths to maintain their secrecy. Government Censorship: The Amestrian government, under the control of Father and the homunculi, often censored information that could potentially undermine their authority. Personal Risk: The safety of the main characters was constantly at risk, making it difficult for them to pursue their goals without putting their lives and those of their loved ones in danger.

The Power of Secrecy and Control

By maintaining control over the information and keeping the truth concealed, Father and the Homunculi could manipulate events to their advantage. They exploited the fear and uncertainty among the population to achieve their goals, further justifying the need to keep the Promised Day a secret.

Strategic Implications and Conclusion

The decision to conceal the truth about the Promised Day was a significant strategic move. It allowed for the consolidation of power, the manipulation of events, and the prevention of mass unrest. While it added layers of complexity to the plot, it also provided a rich narrative with profound implications for the characters and the series as a whole.

Understanding the motivations behind Father's actions offers valuable insights into the themes of power, control, and the manipulation of information in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. The careful concealment of the truth reflects the characters' struggle with the consequences of their actions and the intricate web of deceit that permeates the series.