Anime, a form of Japanese animation, has gained immense popularity worldwide. It creatively explores various themes, provoking thoughts while keeping it entertaining. It showcases a diverse range of characters with unique traits and personalities. Anime delves into the captivating concept of humanity.
Some of these characters go beyond conventional norms and provoke introspection, making viewers question the essence of humanity itself. Anime presents diverse portrayals of humanity, encompassing its beauty, compassion, and its darker aspects. This article explores 5 anime characters who provoke existential thoughts and question our perception of human existence.
1) Light Yagami from Death Note
Light Yagami is the protagonist of Death Note. He is a character who challenges the concepts of justice and morality. Portrayed as an exceptionally intelligent and ambitious high school student, Light stumbles upon a supernatural notebook that grants him the power to kill anyone whose name he writes in it.
Initially driven by a desire to eradicate criminals, Light becomes consumed by power and starts eliminating those he deems unworthy, blurring the line between justice and tyranny. His character raises questions about the impact of absolute power on one’s moral compass.
2) Sōsuke Aizen from Bleach
Sōsuke Aizen, the main villain in Bleach, is a skilled manipulator who personifies the allure and danger of power. Aizen is introduced as a seemingly benevolent and trustworthy captain of the Soul Society, the governing body of the spiritual realm. However, his true nature gradually unravels, revealing an intricate web of manipulation and deceit.
As viewers witness his grand schemes and unfathomable intellect, they are forced to confront the darker aspects of human nature. Aizen’s character prompts reflection on the corrupting nature of power and the extremes people will reach to obtain it, blurring the distinction between good and evil.
3) Izaya Orihara from Durarara!!
Izaya Orihara, a cunning and manipulative character from the urban fantasy series Durarara!!, embodies the chaotic side of humanity. He possesses an uncanny ability to orchestrate chaos and observe the resulting consequences with sadistic pleasure.
Known as an information broker, Izaya thrives on creating discord and observing the resulting chaos. He manipulates others with his vast knowledge of human behavior, exploiting their weaknesses for his personal amusement. Izaya’s character challenges us to examine the intricate web of human connections and the darker motivations that drive individuals to create turmoil.
4) Makishima Shogo from Psycho-Pass
I redrawing my own Makishima-san fanart from 3 years ago
this is bloody version! enjoy!!!;) pic.twitter.com/J9YyN3gnIy
— HELLbluboii (@SHINKU_SYRUP) August 2, 2021
Makishima Shogo, the antagonist in the cyberpunk thriller Psycho-Pass, challenges our perception of justice and the nature of free will. With a deep disdain for a society controlled by a centralized system, Makishima becomes the catalyst for chaos and rebellion. He commits terrible acts to awaken people and challenge the limitations of the system.
Makishima’s actions and philosophical musings force viewers to question the very foundations of morality, control, and the extent to which humanity is shaped by external influences. Makishima’s character raises thought-provoking questions about the balance between security and personal freedom, leaving us questioning the true nature of a just society.
5) Griffith from Berserk
More #berserk #fanart, The White Hawk!
This one was a doozy.https://t.co/PzApULnuAs pic.twitter.com/o6aT2Vx2JL— Ari Ibarra (@AriIRF_) June 27, 2020
In the dark fantasy series Berserk, Griffith is a charismatic and ambitious leader who aspires to achieve his dreams at any cost. Griffith starts from humble origins and eventually becomes the leader of the respected mercenary group, the Band of the Hawk. However, as the story unfolds, we witness the gradual erosion of Griffith’s morality and the unveiling of his dark desires.
In a desperate pursuit of power and immortality, he betrays his comrades and sacrifices their lives for his own ascension. His actions force us to ponder the corrupting influence of power and the moral boundaries individuals are willing to cross in pursuit of their ambitions.
Conclusion
Anime has a remarkable ability to explore the depths of human nature, often through compelling and thought-provoking characters. The 5 anime characters discussed in this article are just a glimpse into the vast array of complex personalities that exist within the anime world. Each character challenges our preconceived notions of humanity, morality, and the choices we make. Through their stories, we are encouraged to contemplate our own beliefs, values, and the intricacies of our human nature.
