Berserk and Struggle of Being Human

“Dreams. Each man longs to pursue his dream. Each man is tortured by this dream, but the dream gives meaning to his life. Even if the dream ruins his life, man cannot allow himself to leave it behind. In this world, is man ever able to possess anything more solid than a dream?” —Guts, Berserk

"Berserk" is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Kentaro Miura which is one of the most successful seinen manga series of all time. This series is well-known for its dark and mature topics, as well as its intricate artwork.

The central idea of "Berserk," which may be understood as a deep examination of the struggle of being human, is among the best aspects of this series. it can be stated that the series not only explores a variety of facets of society and human nature but also serves as a constant reminder that human struggle is a part of existence. The author raises existential issues regarding the meaning and purpose of existence throughout the narrative. Specifically, Guts struggles with his existence and the forces that seem to determine his fate. The series invites readers to consider their lives and the decisions that shape them.

In this article, we'll discuss Berserk's themes, with a particular emphasis on what it means to be human. To help beginners understand, I will quickly touch on topics like dreams, humanity, and good against evil. I recommend stopping right now if you haven't read the series yet—spoilers ahead!

Berserk, which was released in 1989, explores the complexities of the human condition in the series. The protagonist, Guts, suffers severely both mentally and physically during the course of the story. His hardships are a reflection of the larger difficulties that humanity faces. 

Throughout the series, Guts, often referred to as the Black Swordsman, also endures extreme loneliness and isolation, emphasizing the downsides of the human experience. His tragic past and the demonic mark left on him both lead to his social exclusion, which is an apparent parallel to real life, where some people have to live as outcasts for a variety of reasons, including mental health issues. This exploration of isolation speaks to the universal human experience of seeking connection and compassion in a world that often feels indifferent or hostile.

The theme of "Berserk" that we must address is probably the questioning of established notions about good and evil. Griffith and Guts are two characters that represent complex morality. These individuals perfectly capture the essence of humanity, which is that most people are morally ambiguous and that there are no purely good and evil people.

The series challenges readers to consider the nature of morality and the choices that are made by people in difficult circumstances. It highlights the gray regions present in human behavior and blurs the distinctions between heroism and villainy. Griffith serves as a metaphor for the dark side of ambition, illustrating how his burning drive destroys not just his purity and humanity but also those around him. Through Griffith, who puts his aspirations over what is best for his friends, the show examines the catastrophic effects of excessive desire and the toll it has on both individuals and society.

To comprehend these complex personalities and their motivations—whether good or bad—dreams and desires are crucial themes. Guts, for example, is intrigued by discovering his place and purpose on Earth, especially after hearing Griffitih's talk. Guts' battle against fate and the otherworldly forces that haunt the Berserk universe is also connected to his search for purpose and identity. Much of the series is driven by his need to find his place in the world and his purpose in it, which forces him to face his inner darkness.

In conclusion, "Berserk" is a story that delves deeper into the fundamental themes of the human experience than just its fantastical and scary parts. It explores the complex issues of morality, identity, and the never-ending struggle that comes with being human through the lenses of its characters and stories.