I've been curious about that too, and have spent some time comparing the two series. Personally, I far prefer Pandora Hearts, I've obsessed over it for about two years whereas I only casually follow Kuroshitsuji. None of the characters in Kuro really grabbed me that much, and I'd say the main reason I prefer PH over Kuro (other than the amount of time devouted to each) is that I'm far more interested in PH's characters than Ciel and Sebastian - that and I find the events surrounding ph's cast more interesting that kuro's.
Kuro also seems to be much more streamlined... Character wise, and Pandora hearts plot wise. While side characters do get development in Kuro, the focus is always seems to be very much on Ciel and Sebastian, whereas Pandora Hearts' characters have a much wider depth. Kuro's plot is slow to address key points, its arcs more self contained, whereas Pandora Hearts loves consistantly pattering around with them (or am I misdefining key points?), and the arcs majorly advancing the main story.
As for the differences in their popularity, I think that perhaps a lot of people just don't have the patience for ph's mystery and might not have as much of an appreciation for its strengths? I'm sorry, I'm not finding the right words here. Kuro, I think, also has a bit higher of a 'cool/awesome' factor. Also, based on base summary alone, I think Kuro comes across as a bit more interesting. But that's just me, who probably would never have gotten in to Pandora hearts had I not been forcibly dragged into it. Oh, and individual volumes of kuro might give more satisfaction than ph, where it's better to view the story as a whole? I'm not terribly sure, and I haven't really studied Kuro all that closely either ( so correct and forgive any gross miscalculations I may have made, alright?).
However, given that both series are victorian era, bishounen, gothic-fantasy stories with teenage aristocrats making contracts with otherworldly beings, it's pretty impressive that the two manage to be so very different. Really, closer examination of plot and characters, I can't even say it'd be smart to recommend a fan of one series to the other. (Although I do know there are many that like both... bishounen appeal, I guess. Or something else. Because what the hell do I know? Nothing. But it's interesting none the less, and I might as well share my opinion, right? And maybe gain more insight on this matter from you other wonderful people.) |