adminSuguru Geto is one of the most compelling characters in the manga and anime series “Jujutsu Kaisen,” created by Gege Akutami. Initially portrayed as a powerful and principled jujutsu sorcerer, Geto’s transformation into a villain is both tragic and complex. This article delves into the reasons behind Geto’s turn to evil, examining his background, psychological factors, ideological conflicts, and the influence of external forces. By understanding Geto’s journey, we gain deeper insights into the themes and narrative of “Jujutsu Kaisen.”
Geto’s Background and Early Life
Early Training and Friendship with Gojo
Suguru Geto and Satoru Gojo, two of the strongest jujutsu sorcerers, trained together at Tokyo Jujutsu High. Their friendship and shared experiences during their formative years played a significant role in shaping their perspectives on the world and their responsibilities as sorcerers.
For more on Geto and Gojo’s early years, visit Crunchyroll.
The Mission to Protect Humanity
Initially, Geto was committed to protecting humanity from curses, adhering to the principles of jujutsu sorcery. His early missions and battles showcased his dedication and skill, establishing him as a key defender against supernatural threats.
For an analysis of Geto’s early missions, refer to Anime News Network.
Psychological and Ideological Conflicts
Disillusionment with Humanity
Geto’s growing disillusionment with humanity is a crucial factor in his transformation. Witnessing the suffering and cruelty inflicted by ordinary humans, as well as the ungratefulness and ignorance towards sorcerers’ sacrifices, led him to question his role and the purpose of protecting such a flawed society.
For insights into Geto’s disillusionment, see MyAnimeList.
The Mission that Changed Everything
A pivotal mission that deeply affected Geto involved the protection of two young girls with immense cursed energy. The trauma and tragedy of this mission, combined with his growing disillusionment, catalyzed his ideological shift. He began to see non-sorcerers as the root of all curses and suffering.
For more on the pivotal mission, visit Comic Book Resources.
Ideological Shift: Sorcerers vs. Non-Sorcerers
Geto’s ideology shifted towards believing that a world without non-sorcerers would be a paradise. He started to view sorcerers as a superior race destined to rule, and he saw the eradication of non-sorcerers as the only way to achieve true peace and eliminate curses.
For an in-depth analysis of Geto’s ideology, refer to Screen Rant.
External Influences and Manipulations
The Influence of Cursed Spirits
Geto’s interactions with cursed spirits and other malevolent entities further pushed him towards darkness. These beings exploited his disillusionment and ideological conflicts, providing him with power and validating his belief in sorcerer supremacy.
For more on the influence of cursed spirits, see AnimeLab.
The Role of Kenjaku
Kenjaku, an ancient sorcerer known for body-hopping and manipulation, played a significant role in Geto’s descent into evil. By taking over Geto’s body and using his abilities for sinister purposes, Kenjaku perpetuated Geto’s fall from grace and furthered his own dark ambitions.
For details on Kenjaku’s influence, visit Manga Plus.
The Transformation into a Villain
The Shibuya Incident
The Shibuya Incident is a major event where Geto, under Kenjaku’s control, orchestrates a massive attack on Tokyo, causing widespread chaos and destruction. This incident marks a definitive point in Geto’s transformation into a villain and solidifies his role as a major antagonist.
For a detailed overview of the Shibuya Incident, visit VIZ Media.
Conflict with Former Allies
Geto’s turn to evil puts him at odds with his former friends and allies, particularly Satoru Gojo. The ideological clash between Geto and Gojo represents a broader conflict between different visions for the future of the jujutsu world.
For more on the conflict with Gojo, refer to Otaku USA Magazine.
Thematic Exploration
The Nature of Good and Evil
Geto’s transformation explores the blurred lines between good and evil. His descent into villainy is not driven by a lust for power or revenge but by a misguided sense of justice and a desire to create a better world, albeit through extreme and destructive means.
For thematic analysis, see Literary Devices.
The Burden of Power
The burden of power and responsibility is a recurring theme in “Jujutsu Kaisen.” Geto’s fall highlights the psychological toll and ethical dilemmas faced by those with immense power. It questions how far one should go to achieve their vision of a better world.
For insights into the burden of power, visit Psychology Today.
The Impact of Geto’s Actions
Effects on the Jujutsu World
Geto’s actions have far-reaching consequences for the jujutsu world. His radical ideology and violent methods destabilize the balance between sorcerers and non-sorcerers, leading to increased conflict and chaos.
For an analysis of Geto’s impact, refer to Anime News Network.
Influence on Other Characters
Geto’s transformation deeply affects other characters in the series, particularly his former allies. His fall from grace serves as a cautionary tale and a source of motivation for characters like Yuji Itadori and Megumi Fushiguro to uphold their principles and fight for a better future.
For character impact analysis, see Crunchyroll.
Psychological and Moral Complexity
Geto’s Internal Struggle
Despite his outward transformation, Geto’s internal struggle and remnants of his former self occasionally surface. These moments of vulnerability and reflection add depth to his character, highlighting the complexity of his motivations and actions.
For more on Geto’s internal struggle, visit MyAnimeList.
Moral Ambiguity
Geto’s journey underscores the moral ambiguity present in “Jujutsu Kaisen.” His actions, while extreme, stem from a desire to protect sorcerers and create a world free from curses. This complexity challenges viewers to question the nature of morality and justice.
For insights into moral ambiguity, see Vox.
Fan and Critical Reception
Fan Reactions
Fans have responded to Geto’s transformation with a mix of fascination and sorrow. His character arc is seen as one of the most compelling and tragic in the series, eliciting strong emotional responses from the audience.
For fan reactions, visit Reddit.
Critical Perspectives
Critics have praised the depth and complexity of Geto’s character, noting that his transformation adds significant narrative weight to “Jujutsu Kaisen.” His fall from grace is seen as a powerful exploration of themes like power, responsibility, and the fine line between heroism and villainy.
For critical reviews, see IGN.
Conclusion
Suguru Geto’s transformation from a principled jujutsu sorcerer to a tragic villain is a key narrative arc in “Jujutsu Kaisen.” His journey is driven by deep psychological and ideological conflicts, external manipulations, and a misguided sense of justice. By understanding the factors that led to Geto’s turn to evil, we gain a richer appreciation of the series’ themes and character development. Geto’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of good and evil and the burdens that come with power.