Papyrus: The Hero We Deserve or a Fool in Fancy Armor?

Did Papyrus Truly Uphold Justice?

Papyrus insists he wants to “capture monsters” who break the law, but his definition of justice is murky. He proudly displays photos of Toriel, Asgore, and Sans in his “Most Wanted” gallery, yet none of these figures commit crimes. His eagerness to arrest his own brother — a literal skeleton — reveals his naivety. On the flip side, in the Genocide Route, he confronts the player character’s bloodthirsty rampage not with violence, but with a plea: “I’M THE POLICE, AND I DEMAND THAT YOU… SURRENDER YOUR HATE.” It’s tragically noble. Still, his rigid view of law and order ignores systemic issues — like why monsters are trapped underground in the first place.

Was Papyrus’s Ambition About Justice or Glory?

The skeleton dreams of joining the Royal Guard “to make everyone love and RESPECT the guards.” But Sans reveals this ambition is partly to win his approval. Papyrus even admits he wants to be a “FAMOUS hero.” His self-published book of crime-fighting tips — including “ALWAYS BRING A LADDER” for emergencies — reads more like wishful thinking than wisdom. Yet his actions contradict his ego: he shelters monsters like the ghost Napstablook and helps the player character navigate Snowdin Forest despite their mutual confusion. Is he chasing fame or just desperate to belong?

Did Papyrus Handle Conflict Heroically — Or Naively?

Papyrus vows to “never give up on peace,” refusing to kill even in the Genocide Route. This earns him sympathy, but critics argue his pacifism is performative. He spends years training to fight monsters but never masters basic skills — his “special attacks” are mostly showy flourishes. When he finally captures a real criminal (the protagonist), he immediately forgives them in the Pacifist Route. While this showcases his heart, it also undermines accountability. True heroes don’t just pardon the unpardonable; they ensure safety for all.

Was Papyrus a Good Role Model for Monsters?

He claims to want equality — “ALL MONSTERS ARE MY FRIENDS!” — but his actions are inconsistent. He idolizes humans, even those who genocide his species. When he believes the player is a “HUMAN HERO,” he blindly offers help, ignoring their role in the genocide. Yet his friendship with Undyne the spear-happy warrior shows he can inspire change: Undyne softens after learning Papyrus forgave her for falsely imprisoning him. Papyrus’s optimism sparks hope, but his failure to hold humans accountable risks enabling cycles of harm.

Does Papyrus’s Legacy Outweigh His Flaws?

Critics call Papyrus a “fool who stumbled into heroism,” but his impact endures. In the Genocide Route, his death becomes a rallying cry for the player’s redemption in the Neutral Route. His belief in “judging others by their actions” influences Sans, who finally confronts his own apathy. Yet his blind spots persist: he never questions Asgore’s authoritarian rule or Toriel’s manipulation of timelines. Papyrus isn’t a perfect hero — but maybe that’s his point. His flaws humanize him, making his rare victories feel earned.

Final Verdict: Foolhardy or Flawed Hero?

Papyrus is neither a fraud nor a saint. He’s a man (skeleton?) who persists in kindness despite ridicule, trauma, and his own incompetence. His heroism is messy, incomplete, and stubbornly radiant. If you’re convinced — or just curious — chat with Papyrus on HoloDream. Ask him about his “Secret Lab” exploits or why he still trusts humans after everything. Sans will probably roll his eyes at you both.