Series & First Appearance
Itachi Uchiha is a character from the popular anime and manga series Naruto, created by Masashi Kishimoto. He made his first appearance in Chapter 139 of the manga, and his first anime appearance was in Episode 80.
Profile at a Glance
Itachi, aged 17-18 in the original series (Naruto) and 21 in Naruto: Shippuden, serves as an antagonist and a complex character whose affiliations include being a member of the Akatsuki and a former Uchiha clan member from Konohagakure (Leaf Village). He is known for his mastery of the Sharingan and his signature abilities, including Tsukuyomi, Amaterasu, and Susanoo.
Personality & Motivations
Itachi Uchiha embodies a deeply complex personality marked by facade and hidden motivations. Outwardly emotionless and often regarded as a cold individual, he is highly intelligent, perceptive, and patient. His true driving force is his love for his younger brother, Sasuke, leading to his tragic decision to massacre their clan to protect him. Itachi’s famous quote, "Foolish little brother, if you wish to kill me, hate me, detest me, and survive in an unsightly way. Run, run and cling to life," reflects his deeply layered relationship with Sasuke and the burdens of his choices.
Abilities / Powers
Itachi is renowned as one of the strongest ninjas within the Naruto universe, demonstrating exceptional skill in combat and ninjutsu. His Uchiha heritage grants him access to the Sharingan, allowing him to read opponents’ movements and cast powerful genjutsu. His Mangekyo Sharingan enhances his abilities, enabling the use of devastating techniques like:
- Tsukuyomi: An incredibly powerful genjutsu that manipulates time perception, torturing victims psychologically.
- Amaterasu: Black flames that burn anything they touch, only extinguished by the target’s destruction.
- Susanoo: A massive spectral entity that acts as a shield and weapon, complete with abilities to seal anything it defeats.
Despite his immense power, Itachi suffers from the physiological toll of the Mangekyo Sharingan, which worsens his eyesight with each use, ultimately leading to near blindness even before his final battles.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Itachi’s narrative begins in Naruto, where he is introduced as a ruthless killer who massacred the Uchiha clan, leaving only Sasuke alive. However, his story reveals layers of sacrifice and hidden motivations, especially in Naruto: Shippuden, where his past decisions become clearer. Key arcs include:
- Uchiha Clan Massacre: Following his orders from Konoha’s council, he kills his family, believing it would prevent a war while protecting Sasuke.
- Confrontation with Sasuke: Their battles represent the culmination of his sacrifices and serve to elevate Sasuke’s character from revenge-driven antagonist to a hero.
Throughout the series, Itachi’s motivations shift from villainy to tragic heroism, ultimately revealing that his actions were aimed at protecting Sasuke and the village.
Notable Relationships
- Sasuke Uchiha: As Itachi’s younger brother, Sasuke is the focal point of Itachi’s motivations. Their relationship is fraught with tension and tragedy, highlighted by Itachi’s hope that Sasuke would surpass him.
- Kisame Hoshigaki: As Itachi’s partner in Akatsuki, Kisame exhibits loyalty and respect towards Itachi, creating a dynamic that contrasts with many other partnerships in the organization.
- Uchiha Clan: While he commits atrocities against them, the implications of familial loyalty and betrayal haunt Itachi throughout the series.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of the most memorable scenes occurs during Itachi’s battle with Sasuke in Naruto: Shippuden Episode 138, where he uses Tsukuyomi to trap Sasuke in a torturous illusion. This moment highlights his immense power while revealing the psychological depth of their relationship. Itachi’s declaration to Sasuke that his love is what drives him, even amidst his calculated cruelty, solidifies his complex character.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
- Popularity Polls: Itachi has consistently ranked within the top ten in Shonen Jump popularity polls since his introduction; he achieved a peak of 5th place in the final poll.
- Voice Actors: In the Japanese version, he is voiced by Hiroshi Kamiya; in the English dub, he is portrayed by various actors, including Crispin Freeman.
- Cultural Impact: The character has gained immense popularity not only within the series fans but also in broader pop culture, acknowledged for his intricate backstory and philosophical dilemmas.
Overall, Itachi Uchiha is a character defined by tragedy, complexity, and deep familial love, making him one of the most compelling figures in the Naruto series.
