This article contains spoilers from the Naruto series.
Key Takeaways
- Naruto’s aspiration to become Hokage was closely intertwined with his quest for acceptance, aiming to heal his feelings of isolation.
- Fans expressed their disappointment regarding Naruto’s brief depiction as Hokage, with his inauguration largely occurring off-screen.
- Many fans felt that Masashi Kishimoto’s approach to realizing Naruto’s dreams as Hokage fell short of expectations.
Overview of the Naruto Phenomenon
Masashi Kishimoto’s Naruto stands as one of the most impactful narratives in manga history. Since its serialization began nearly two decades ago, the series captivated audiences for 15 years and continues to be celebrated, even a decade post-conclusion. With time, it has only deepened its connection with fans, affirming its status as a timeless classic.
Naruto’s Dream of Hokage
The protagonist, Naruto Uzumaki, harbored an ambitious dream: to become Hokage of Konoha and, in the process, gain the respect of those who once dismissed him. This dream transcends mere ambition; it represents a profound desire for acceptance and belonging stemming from his childhood as an outcast.
Understanding Naruto’s Ambitions
- Naruto set high standards for himself.
- He ultimately fulfilled his dream but not in the way fans anticipated.
Initially, Naruto sought attention through antics that endearing fans to him, but as he matured, he recognized that his true goal was to garner acknowledgment through achieving greatness as Hokage. This dream was not just a title; it was about overcoming the void created by years of loneliness.
The Inauguration of Hokage: A Missed Opportunity
While Naruto achieved recognition as a hero by defeating Pain and protecting Konoha, his formal ascent to Hokage was handled in an unsatisfying manner. Rather than experiencing his inauguration in a celebratory manner, this pivotal moment became overshadowed, which left many fans unsatisfied.
Absence at His Own Ceremony
Interestingly, Naruto had already received widespread acknowledgment for his prowess long before he officially assumed the Hokage role. This occurred after he successfully defeated Pain, attaining the respect of villagers and ninja alike. However, the burden of being Hokage came later, with no immediate connection to his previously established heroics.
Ultimately, when the series concluded, Naruto was not the immediate Hokage. Instead, Kakashi occupied the position temporarily, relegating Naruto to a learning phase. This left fans yearning for a portrayal that celebrated his hard-won journey.
Underwhelming Presence in the Series’ Conclusion
Many viewed Naruto’s brief acknowledgment as the Seventh Hokage in the last chapter as lackluster, with Boruto stealing much of the narrative focus. Although some glimpses of Naruto in his Hokage role are provided in the sequel series, viewers are left wanting more of his personal journey.
The OVA Experience
In the OVA, an alternative version of his inauguration showcases an absurd scenario where Naruto is knocked out by his daughter, leading to Konohamaru filling in for him—a moment that further confused fans who anticipated a more substantial celebration of his rise.
Conclusion: A Dream Unfulfilled?
The fundamental issue for fans revolves around Naruto’s adoption of the Hokage title. Although he earned hero status, his transition to Hokage was anticlimactic, depriving him of the recognition and narrative weight he deserved. While Kishimoto crafted Naruto’s legacy beautifully overall, his portrayal as Hokage left much to be desired.
Fans can explore Naruto and its powerful narratives by checking platforms like MangaPlus and the Shonen Jump app, ensuring they stay engaged with the world Kishimoto has created.
For a deeper examination of the complexities surrounding Naruto’s journey, check out this source.
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