While we know that the different Noble Houses have influence over institutions, the military, and the government, there are still a lot of mysteries surrounding them. So, learn more about the different Noble Houses in Bleach with our handy guide here!
Spoiler Warning: This article might contain spoilers from the Bleach: Can't Fear Your Own World light novel.
The Different Noble Houses in Bleach
While the objective of the Noble Houses was not revealed in Bleach, the Bleach: Can't Fear Your Own World light novel (which centers on Shuhei Hisagi) explains more about them.
To start off, there are two types of Noble Houses: the Great Noble Houses and the Lower Noble Houses.
Initially, there were five Great Noble Houses, but the Shiba Clan was removed.
Aside from the Shiba Clan, the only other Great Noble Houses in the shounen anime are the Shihoin Clan and the Kuchiki Clan. The other two clans are unnamed.
On the other hand, there are five Lower Noble Houses: the Feng Family, the Kyoraku Family, the Ukitake Family, the Omaeda Family, and the Kira Family.
As lower houses, they usually serve and work for the Great Noble Houses.
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The Purpose of the Noble Houses
The Shihoin Clan was considered the leader of the Stealth Force. They are also the Caretakers of the Hogu (Treasure Tool) and Bugu (War Tool).
Both tools are essential as they are believed to be from the gods.
Another notable Noble House is the Kuchiki Clan, which Byakuya Kuchiki heads. Their role is to maintain the history of Soul Society.
Unfortunately, since the other Great Noble Houses are unnamed, we can only assume that they keep the status quo.
In one of Tokinada’s agendas, he mentioned that the Great Noble Houses could surpass the Royal Guard and Central 46.
However, they can only do this if they decide to unite.
This is also why the Shiba Clan must become a Great Noble House again, as this action requires all five Great Noble Houses.
The Can't Fear Your Own World light novel further revealed that each noble ancestor planned to use the Soul King’s power to divide the world between the dead and the living.
Their ancestors also explored the Wufang Shangdi, a Chinese religion wherein five gods are tasked to represent an aspect of the world.
With this, it can be assumed that the Great Noble Houses are somewhat responsible for the current world of Bleach, proving once again how powerful and influential they are.
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