Why Ei Sei Is My Favorite Character in Kingdom Manga

The 'Kingdom' manga series, with its rich storyline and complex characters, has captivated a global audience. While many readers often gravitate towards main characters like Ou Ki Ri Boku, Ou Sen Gen, Pou Hou Ken, and others, there is one character who stands out even among these notable figures: Ei Sei.

It's not easy to choose a favorite character when the manga is filled with such compelling figures, but if a character resonates with me, it often means they have worked their way into my heart. As a protagonist with a deep sense of idealism and pragmatism, Ei Sei easily stands out for his intricate character development and relatable journey.

A Moment That Sold Me on His Character

One particular moment in the manga that solidified Ei Sei's place among my favorite characters was his response to a dire situation. Imagine yourself in the shoes of Protagonist-kun, facing the gruesome fate of your closest friend at the hands of a powerful antagonist. This antagonist, having just slaughtered your friend, boasts of his terrifying power and his intention to kill you next, asserting that he is invincible and will execute his plan ruthlessly.

While battling out of sheer anger and strength, you are given a sudden moment of clarity—a callback to the often-overused yet deeply poignant scenario in battle manga: the protagonist being reminded of their own past as an orphan, in this case, a reminder from his comrade Ei Sei. The argument goes something like this:

Ei Sei reminds you that the world is not a Shounen story where you can easily spare a "fodder" character to save them from meeting their demise. He points out that if you are going to be lenient toward someone who has no plot armor, then you must also face the harsh reality that your actions may be seen as giving them a false sense of security. The Shounen path of light, often romanticized, may look gentle and noble, but Ei Sei believes it to be unrealistic. He argues that the pursuit of peace and hope must be tempered with the understanding that sometimes, the world requires tough decisions out of necessity, not sentimentality.

This moment in Kingdom strikes a balance between idealism and realism, challenging the protagonist to confront the harsh realities of his world while still holding onto hope. Ei Sei's pragmatic yet idealistic viewpoint adds a layer of depth to his character, making him more than just a supporting figure but a crucial element in the narrative of the manga.

Character Development and Motivations

Ei Sei's journey within the manga is marked by a deep transformation from someone who had given up on the world to one who was driven by a desire for peaceful change. Initially, Ei Sei was at his lowest point, stuck in a kingdom that blamed him for existence and suffered from deep-seated grudges he did not deserve. His life was further marred by emotional withdrawal and even abuse from his mother, reflecting the harsh realities of his experiences.

However, a group of brave traders provided him with a second chance, instilling in him the desire to live his life by passing on the good will they had shown him. This opportunity to make a positive impact became his guiding light. He aspires to adhere to the ideals of making the world a better place, not just for his generation but for future generations as well.

The manga 'Kingdom' explores themes of change, resistance, and the struggle for peace in a historical fantasy setting. Ei Sei's character serves as a beacon of hope, representing the idea that one can still strive for peace and betterment even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. His journey is a testament to the enduring human spirit and the ability to fight for what one believes in, even in the darkest of times.

Conclusion

While the 'Kingdom' manga is rich with memorable characters, Ei Sei stands out for his balanced approach to idealism and pragmatic reality. His character is a blend of hope, resilience, and a clear-headed understanding of the world's complexities. Ei Sei's story is a powerful reminder that in a world filled with trials and tribulations, the pursuit of peace and change must be based on a realistic and nuanced perspective.

Through his character, the manga 'Kingdom' forces its readers to confront difficult truths and to consider the delicate balance between hope and realism. This makes Ei Sei not just a favorite character but an integral part of the narrative that draws audiences in with its relatable depth and complexity.