Series & First Appearance
Hyakkimaru is the main character in Osamu Tezuka’s manga series Dororo, which first debuted in 1967. The anime adaptation of Dororo premiered in 2019, produced by MAPPA, and features character designs attributed to the original creator Tezuka.
Profile at a Glance
Hyakkimaru appears to be around 16 years old, although his biological age is significantly younger due to the traumatic events of his early life. He serves as the protagonist of the series, often depicted as a powerful and skilled warrior on a quest to reclaim the 48 parts of his body that were sold to demons by his father at his birth. His signature abilities include incredible swordsmanship and enhanced senses gained from his missing body parts, as well as the use of prosthetic limbs that equip him for battle.
Personality & Motivations
Hyakkimaru is characterized by a stoic demeanor and a deep sense of loneliness. His traumatic experiences have shaped him into a driven individual, seeking to reclaim his humanity by recovering the stolen parts of his body. As he journeys across a brutal landscape filled with demons and bandits, he often wrestles with questions of identity and humanity. Notably, he possesses a rare emotional depth and often reflects on the implications of his actions and their impact on others.
Abilities / Powers
Hyakkimaru showcases incredible combat prowess, excelling in swordplay and hand-to-hand combat. His missing body parts grant him supernatural abilities; for example, without his eyes, he can sense emotions and intentions. Over the course of the series, his fights against various demons also display an evolution in his combat style, which merges his martial abilities with his newfound senses. However, there’s a paradoxical nature to his powers: with each part he recovers, he regains physical form but loses some of the emotional detachment that has shielded him from the grim realities of his journey.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Hyakkimaru’s journey begins with the realization of his tragic birth and his quest to reclaim his body, which serves as the crux of the narrative. As he battles different demons, he confronts not only the physical challenges but also moral dilemmas that test his character. One pivotal story arc occurs when he meets Dororo, a young thief who becomes his companion. Their developing bond provides a contrast to Hyakkimaru’s isolation, gradually revealing his human vulnerabilities. As the series progresses, the tension between his quest for identity and his descent into a more grim existence becomes increasingly pronounced, marking key points in his character development.
Notable Relationships
One of the most significant relationships in Hyakkimaru’s life is with Dororo, who serves as both a companion and a confidant. Their interactions reveal layers of Hyakkimaru’s personality that he often struggles to express, such as friendship and empathy. Conversely, Hyakkimaru’s relationship with his father, who played a critical role in his misfortunes, further complicates his quest. This familial conflict underscores the themes of betrayal and abandonment that permeate the series.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
In episode 4 of the 2019 anime adaptation, Hyakkimaru confronts a formidable demon while revealing the dichotomy of his struggle: “I will not run away from what I have lost.” This statement encapsulates his determination to confront both his demons in battle and his inner conflicts. Another memorable scene arises in episode 7, where he finally sees his reflection; the moment serves as a profound turning point in his self-awareness, reaffirming his quest for wholeness and identity.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Hyakkimaru is voiced in the Japanese version by Natsuki Hanae, known for his roles in Demon Slayer and Tokyo Ghoul, while in the English adaptation, he is voiced by Billy Kametz. The character has garnered a significant fanbase, evidenced by his ranking in popularity polls, where he has received over 7,594 member favorites. The themes of Dororo are deeply rooted in Japanese folklore, and the narrative explores the moral complexities of good and evil, making Hyakkimaru a fitting emblem for these explorations. The original manga has also been reimagined multiple times, indicating the lasting impact and relevance of Hyakkimaru’s story and the philosophical questions it raises about human nature and agency.
Overall, Hyakkimaru stands as a complex character within Osamu Tezuka’s Dororo, embodying the intricate interplay of loss, identity, and the quest for humanity amidst chaos and suffering. His journey resonates with fans as they witness the trials he faces in his pursuit of completeness and the moral dilemmas that challenge his understanding of humanity.
