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Character arcs are essential in storytelling, providing depth and development to characters as they navigate their journeys. Two notable examples in contemporary anime and manga are Fruits Basket and March Comes in Like a Lion. Both series explore themes of trauma, healing, and personal growth through their characters’ experiences. This article will evaluate the character arcs in both series, focusing on their similarities and differences.
Overview of Fruits Basket
Fruits Basket, created by Natsuki Takaya, tells the story of Tohru Honda, a high school girl who becomes involved with the Sohma family, who are cursed to transform into animals of the Chinese zodiac when hugged by the opposite sex. The series explores themes of acceptance, love, and the impact of trauma on personal identity.
Overview of March Comes in Like a Lion
March Comes in Like a Lion, created by Chica Umino, follows Rei Kiriyama, a professional shogi player dealing with depression and loneliness after the loss of his family. The series delves into themes of mental health, the importance of community, and the struggle for self-acceptance.
Character Arcs in Fruits Basket
Tohru Honda’s character arc is central to the narrative of Fruits Basket. Initially, she is portrayed as an optimistic and selfless individual, often putting others’ needs before her own. As the story progresses, Tohru learns to confront her own feelings and insecurities.
- Tohru’s journey of self-discovery
- Confronting trauma from her mother’s death
- Building meaningful relationships with the Sohmas
Other characters, such as Yuki and Kyo Sohma, also experience significant growth. Yuki learns to embrace his identity and overcome his past traumas, while Kyo confronts his anger and feelings of worthlessness, ultimately finding acceptance.
Character Arcs in March Comes in Like a Lion
In March Comes in Like a Lion, Rei Kiriyama’s character arc is profound and intricate. He begins as a withdrawn and emotionally distant individual, struggling with the pressures of being a professional shogi player and the weight of his past.
- Rei’s battle with depression and loneliness
- Finding solace in the Kawamoto family
- Gradual acceptance of his emotions and identity
Supporting characters, such as the Kawamoto sisters, also undergo significant growth, helping Rei to navigate his emotional struggles and encouraging him to open up to those around him.
Comparative Analysis of Character Arcs
Both Fruits Basket and March Comes in Like a Lion present rich character arcs that emphasize personal growth and healing. However, the approach to these arcs differs significantly.
- Theme of Acceptance: Both series highlight the importance of acceptance, but Fruits Basket focuses on familial love and acceptance, while March Comes in Like a Lion emphasizes community and friendship.
- Confronting Trauma: Tohru confronts her trauma through her relationships, whereas Rei’s journey is more introspective, focusing on self-acceptance and mental health.
- Character Relationships: In Fruits Basket, relationships are often transformative, while in March Comes in Like a Lion, they serve as a support system for healing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Fruits Basket and March Comes in Like a Lion offer profound explorations of character growth through their narratives. While Tohru’s journey is one of external acceptance and love, Rei’s arc is a deep dive into the complexities of mental health and self-acceptance. These character arcs resonate with audiences, reminding us of the importance of understanding and supporting one another in our personal journeys.