This article contains spoilers from One Piece’s Egghead Island Arc.
Summary
- Shanks is an enigmatic character in the One Piece universe, serving as a mentor to Luffy and holding the title of Emperor of the Sea.
- His dubious affiliations with the World Government have led some fans to speculate about his potential malevolence.
- Despite such theories, Shanks commands high levels of respect and suggests he could be one of the rare goodhearted pirates in the series.
The intriguing character of Shanks has sparked countless fan theories since his debut at the onset of One Piece. His intermittent appearances throughout the story contribute to a growing curiosity surrounding his origins and true objectives, prompting fans to speculate extensively.
Fan conjectures range from the bizarre, such as theories about a twin brother to Shanks’s actual connection with Luffy, to darker implications suggesting Shanks could turn against Luffy in the series’ conclusion. Among a select few, including Dragon, Shanks remains a character shrouded in mystery and ripe for analysis.
Shanks Is A Mysterious Figure In One Piece
He Is Luffy’s Idol And Connected To The World Government At The Same Time
Shanks holds a pivotal role in Luffy’s narrative, serving as both idol and mentor. He introduced Luffy to the world of piracy by gifting him his iconic Straw Hat. Concurrently, Shanks wields immense power as an Emperor of the Sea, known as a protector of weaker territories. Among the Warlords, his altruistic nature is most comparable to that of Whitebeard.
“Pistols aren’t for threats. They’re for actions! Are you willing to risk your life?” – Shanks
Nonetheless, Shanks harbors connections to the World Government that raise questions about his true allegiance. In One Piece Film: Red, and through various storylines, a possible familial connection between Shanks and Figarland Garling, a top member of the Five Elders, is hinted at. His privileged discussions with the Elders hint at potential collaborations with the government’s highest echelons.
Shanks Has Become The Snitch Of One Piece
The Emperor Has Had Some Shady Dealings Throughout The Story
- Shanks’s connection to the World Government raises suspicions about his character.
- His brutal treatment of rival pirates has fueled speculation regarding his morals.
This connection has led many fans to label Shanks as the “snitch” of One Piece, mockingly suggesting he may be plotting malevolence behind the scenes. His private discussions with the Five Elders have garnered a plethora of memes questioning his loyalty. Speculation in the community posits that he is concocting strategies that will unfold as the series nears its climax.
Additionally, his ruthless demeanor towards enemy pirates has further raised eyebrows. For instance, Shanks’s overwhelming defeat of Captain Kid and his crew has left many fans questioning his moral compass. In another instance, Shanks placed Bartolomeo in a situation where he had to choose between ingestion of poison and betraying Luffy—a chilling ultimatum that, while ultimately a test, showcased a ruthless side to Shanks.
Shanks Is Too Well Respected To Be Evil
Luffy And The Giants Respect Shanks For His Morality
Despite the shadows surrounding his actions, multiple indicators suggest Shanks embodies a fundamentally good character. His undeniable affection for Luffy and commitment to safeguarding various islands illustrate a protective nature. Furthermore, the esteemed giants of Elbaf regard him with deep respect, indicating his standing as an honorable figure in the One Piece realm.
“I’ll leave this hat with you. It’s dear to me.” – Shanks to Luffy
Shanks’s tremendous reverence for Gol D. Roger, the former Pirate King, also supports the notion of his inherent goodness. As a pupil of Roger, straying too far into evil would contradict the very lessons imparted upon him.
Though fans can conjure theories suggesting Shanks could harbor villainous intentions, current storytelling in One Piece implies he ranks among the most honorable pirates remaining. He stands as a principal good figure among the Emperors, preceding Luffy’s rise. Unless significant revelations transpire that showcase a hidden agenda, Shanks remains a character who exemplifies the morality occasionally sought in the world of piracy.
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