8 Reasons Why Maomao From The Apothecary Diaries Is The Best Girl Of 2023

Introduction

In a year filled with strong contenders for the title of the Best Anime Girl of 2023, such as Ai Hoshino from Oshi no Ko, Frieren from Frieren: Beyond The Journey’s End, and Yor from Spy x Family, there's one character who stands out among the rest—Maomao from The Apothecary Diaries. While she may not possess the physical prowess of Yor, the charm of Ai, or the magical abilities of Frieren, Maomao's unique qualities make her the undisputed best girl of the year. 

Here are eight compelling reasons why Maomao deserves the crown of the best girl of 2023:

1. The Epitome of "Badass Normal"

In a world where supernatural abilities often define anime protagonists, Maomao stands out as the poster girl for "Badass Normal." Despite lacking the extraordinary powers and strength that the other Best Girl contenders have, her moments of absolute badassery, resourcefulness, intelligence, and practical skills make her an indispensable character. Unlike other anime protagonists, her strength lies not in magic or physical prowess, but in her ability to navigate the complexities of the Imperial Palace with unmatched competence.

2. Unmatched Intelligence, Competence, and Problem-Solving Skills

She will not hesitate to reprimand someone if she notices anything wrong with her patients. 

Maomao's strength lies in her intellectual prowess and exceptional problem-solving skills. As an apothecary, she not only excels in medicinal knowledge but also serves as a detective of sorts, untangling mysterious deaths and intricate plots within the Inner Court. She takes charge of solving problems, putting others in their place, and injecting a healthy dose of sarcasm when necessary. Her ability to think critically and make rational decisions adds depth to her character and propels the narrative forward, making her an indispensable asset in solving the palace's enigmatic mysteries.

3. Complex and Realistic Characterization Beyond Tropes

One of Maomao’s notable quirks is her addiction to poisons and drugs.

Maomao's character is a breath of fresh air in an otherwise stale anime landscape. She's not a damsel in distress, a stereotypical love interest, or an overly enthusiastic protagonist. Instead, she's a well-rounded character with flaws, quirks, and a depth that goes beyond the surface. Her childhood in the red-light district, pragmatic approach to life, and mixed feelings about social hierarchy all add to a complex and nuanced character. Maomao's portrayal goes beyond the surface, allowing viewers to relate with her on a deeper level that transcends the constraints of standard character tropes.

4. Resilience and Triumph Over Adversity

Maomao's journey from being kidnapped and sold into the Inner Court to becoming a renowned figure demonstrates her tenacity. When faced with difficulty, she does not give in to despair, but instead rises above it, demonstrating both physical and mental strength. Her relentless resolve to flourish in a tough situation makes her a captivating and motivating character for viewers battling their own challenges.

5. Dynamic Relationships and Emotional Depth

Her relationship with Jinshi is one of the major factors of the series.

Maomao's relationships are not mere plot devices; they contribute to the emotional depth of the story. Interactions with Jinshi, Consort Gyokuyou, and others reveal more subtle aspects of her personality. Exploring her past, including her adoptive relationship with Luomen and interactions with Xiaolan, adds layers to her character, transforming her into more than just a one-dimensional heroine.

6. Distinctive Street Smartness and Survival Instincts

Maomao’s high tolerance to poisons make her an excellent poison taster—a position that greatly helped her in the Inner Palace.

Raised in the red-light district, Maomao brings a distinctive street-smart perspective to her character. Her ability to blend in, avoid trouble, and navigate complex situations showcases a different kind of strength—one grounded in practicality and survival instincts. Whereas in other anime series the protagonists often rely on their extraordinary powers, Maomao's street-smart approach sets her apart.

7. Empathy and Compassion Despite Pragmatism

Maomao's approach is realistic, but she is not without empathy or compassion. Her resolve to ignore wrongdoings and injustice, combined with her commitment to justice, indicates a strong moral compass. Despite her realistic demeanor, she is nevertheless motivated by a sense of right and wrong, which adds depth to her personality. Despite this, she is willing to overlook sins committed by others since she knows how fickle the life of a poor servant like them can be.

8. Rare Mixture of Tranquil Fury and Wise Beyond Years

Maomao doesn’t hold back when angered.

Maomao's emotional range, from tranquil fury when angered (just like what the Ladies-in-Waiting at the Crystal Palace had experienced) to maturity beyond her years, adds a unique layer to her character. Despite her youth, she displays a level of perceptiveness and wisdom that surpasses her age, making her a captivating and multi-dimensional protagonist. Her occasional smiles, rare but captivating, further showcase the depth and complexity of her character.

Best Girl of 2023: Definitely Maomao from The Apothecary Diaries

In a year filled with exceptional anime girls, Maomao from "The Apothecary Diaries" emerges as the undeniable best girl of 2023. Her unique combination of intelligence, resilience, and odd features distinguishes her as a prominent character in the anime scene. Audiences are drawn by her badass attitude and unique skill set as she continues to discover mysteries and negotiate the obstacles of the imperial palace. Maomao is not just a character; she's a symbol of complexity, relatability, and the epitome of what makes an anime girl truly exceptional in 2023.

What do you think?

Who is your Best Girl of 2023?

Do you think Maomao deserves the title?

Should we make a blog post about the Best Boy of 2023 too?

Let us know in the comments or drop us a line on social media: X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Facebook! We’d love to hear from you!

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About The Writer

Cristy is a freelance artist and writer who has been obsessed with anime and manga since childhood. Her love for these imaginative worlds fuels her creative endeavors, and she shows no signs of stopping anytime soon.