Series & First Appearance
Sena Kashiwazaki is a character from the anime and light novel series "Baka and Test: Summon the Beasts" (Japanese: バカとテストと召喚獣). She made her debut in Volume 1 of the light novel, created by Kenjirou Hata and illustrated by Yumehito Ueda. The series has been adapted into anime, with the first season airing in 2010.
Profile at a Glance
Sena is a 16-year-old high school student and the daughter of the headteacher at St. Chronica’s Academy. She plays a prominent role as one of the protagonists in the series, often navigating social hierarchies and friendships within her school. Known for her striking blonde hair and academic prowess, she wields a unique charm and manipulative charisma over her peers, often viewing her male classmates as subservient.
Personality & Motivations
Sena is characterized by her intense desire for admiration despite her wealth and attractiveness. With a notorious disdain for anything "ordinary," her arrogance often alienates her from female classmates, while her superficial interactions with boys reveal her underlying loneliness. Unique among her peers, she enjoys playing video games, particularly dating sims, driven by a longing for authentic connections. Her rivalry with Yozora is marked by insults and emotional outbursts, revealing her vulnerabilities. A recurring phrase is “Stupid Yozora! Go die!”, showcasing her competitive nature and frustration.
Abilities / Powers
Sena’s standout ability lies in her social manipulation and strategic thinking. While not combat-oriented, her intelligence and resourcefulness contribute to her success in both academics and the Summoning Battle system present in the series. Her substantial financial resources often grant her access to more advanced equipment and comforts, allowing her to stand out academically. However, her arrogance can limit her ability to forge genuine friendships, a significant hurdle throughout her character arc.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Throughout the series, Sena’s character undergoes significant development, particularly regarding her relationship with Kodaka. In Volume 7, it is revealed that she and Kodaka are engaged due to a betrothal arranged by their fathers, a revelation that starts to change her views on relationships. In Volume 8, she boldly confesses her love for Kodaka, marking a pivotal turn in her character arc. This confession leads to a complex situation where Kodaka expresses his feelings but hesitates to pursue a romantic relationship due to the dynamics of their club. Sena’s resolution to support Kodaka by prioritizing the club’s stability over her feelings showcases her growth and maturity.
Notable Relationships
- Kodaka Hasegawa: The series’ protagonist and Sena’s love interest. Their evolving relationship is central to Sena’s character growth.
- Yozora Mikazuki: Sena’s chief rival, often clashing and exchanging insults. Their relationship is complex, filled with competitive jealousy and hidden camaraderie.
- Kobato Hasegawa: Kodaka’s younger sister, whom Sena deeply admires. Sena’s enthusiastic reactions toward Kobato hint at her genuine desire for close friendship.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
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Confession to Kodaka (Volume 8): Sena proposes to Kodaka and declares her love—this pivotal scene signifies her vulnerability and longing for emotional connection.
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- Rivalry with Yozora (Multiple Volumes): Her emotional outbursts during conflicts with Yozora, particularly her catchphrase “Stupid Yozora! Go die!”, symbolize her dual nature of fierce rivalry and genuine friendship.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Sena has a sizable fan base, with over 3,230 favorites recorded on platforms like MyAnimeList. Her character design, featuring her signature blonde hair and fashionable outfits, reflects typical high school tropes blended with a unique personality. The character is voiced by Miyuki Sawashiro in Japanese and Felecia Angelle in English, showcasing her multifaceted personality. Sena’s popularity can also be attributed to her relatable struggles with social acceptance and desire for companionship, encapsulating a narrative that resonates with many viewers.
In certain adaptations and merchandise, Sena’s character is often depicted engaged in various activities, reinforcing her dual life as both a powerful student with expectations and a lonely girl searching for real friendship.
This comprehensive look into Sena Kashiwazaki’s character provides fans with a clear understanding of her intricacies, motivations, and impact within the "Baka and Test" series.
