Guts is perhaps one of the manliest characters in all of manga and anime. Though, he is more complex than one might initially think.
(Warning: Spoilers Ahead)
Guts is the embodiment of life's struggle. From an abused orphan to a man who is feared even by demons, Guts has seen and been through it all. This is the story of Berserk. Often called the "Struggler" by the demons known as the "God Hand" and his mysterious acquaintance the "Skull Knight", Guts's life is both tragic and inspiring.
Guts was born from a corpse and left to die. He became a child mercenary only to be abused and raped. Eventually, he learns to open up to people again and becomes a beacon of hope to some and a fearsome shroud of death to his enemies. This is all taken away from him during an event called "The Eclipse."
This event forced Guts to witness the brutal deaths of his comrades, watch his lover being sexually abused and raped, all while he was being physically mutilated. After following these events, it is easy to see why he goes down a path of chaos and destruction.
These tragedies are not exclusive to Guts alone. Various characters within his life have experienced similar tragedies. Each leading down a dark path of self-destruction. However, as each of them encounters Guts they become both disturbed and inspired by his sheer perseverance.
Thus, this is what brings meaning to his given nickname as the "Struggler." Guts is a person who constantly moves forward, through all hardships and obstacles. Though his experiences are grandiose and sometimes hard to relate to, it is inspiring nonetheless. Through all of the epic battle scenes to the edgy one-liners, Guts is a shining example of growth and perseverance.
Once a man haunted by a burning desire to exact his revenge, now he has settled down as a protector for the few people he has left in life. He throws caution to the wind as he risks his life in various battles in a hopeless attempt to forget the horrors of his past. Seemingly to be granted a release of this nightmarish life through death in battle. However, he finds a new purpose in life that overrides his insatiable need for revenge. He opens his heart one again, though reluctantly at first, and uses his strength for his new makeshift family.
Overall, Berserk is a story full of grand imaginings, epic fights, and gore. However, the overarching message still stands as strong as ever. No matter what background, ethnicity, or gender, people will struggle and have to fight to survive. Guts is struggle incarnate.
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