I can speak generally about the character of Hannibal Lecter up until that time.
Hannibal Lecter is a fictional character created by author Thomas Harris, who first appeared in the 1981 novel "Red Dragon" and later gained widespread recognition through the 1991 film "The Silence of the Lambs" and its sequels. The portrayal of Hannibal Lecter as a psychopath is a complex and intriguing one, but it should be noted that the depiction of psychopathy in movies and books often includes some dramatization for entertainment purposes.
The character of Hannibal Lecter is often classified as a high-functioning psychopath or sociopath. He is depicted as intelligent, highly manipulative, and possessing a lack of empathy and remorse for his actions. He exhibits traits such as charm, charisma, and an ability to blend into society while harboring dark and violent tendencies. Additionally, he has a keen interest in human psychology, which he uses to exploit and manipulate others to his advantage.
It's important to recognize that while Hannibal Lecter's portrayal might draw on some aspects of real psychopathy, the character is a fictional creation and should not be taken as a definitive representation of all psychopaths or people with similar disorders. The reality of psychopathy is far more nuanced and diverse, and individuals with psychopathic traits may display different characteristics and behaviors.
If you are interested in learning more about psychopathy or related mental health conditions, I encourage you to refer to reputable psychological and psychiatric sources, as well as peer-reviewed research on the subject.