Top 10 main characters from Vagabond
Top 10 Main Characters of Vagabond, 2024
Vagabond is an epic Japanese martial arts manga series based on the novel "Musashi" by Eiji Yoshikawa. This manga revolves around the late 16th century Sengoku era in Japan; it delves into the self-discovery, morality, and search for mastery as a swordsman of our protagonist, “Miyamoto Musashi.” »
But when it comes to an antagonist, this series is nuanced and takes a different turn, because the very notion of antagonist does not exist. This manga depicts historical events and the samurai lifestyle, presented using stunning art and storytelling.
Top 10 main characters from Vagabond
10) Yoshioka Denshichiro
Denshichiro is the younger brother of Yoshioko Seijuro and is the one who manages and takes care of the Yoshioka Swords School although his older brother is the leader.
He is a man who never abandons his honor as a samurai. Denshichiro fights Musashi at Rengeion Temple, where the former is killed, after which Ueda and 70 other students from the school attack Musashi.
09) Baiken Shishido/Tsujikaze Kohei
Kohei is a very skilled and mysterious swordsman. He is the younger brother of Tsujikaze Tenma, who had a tragic past, which helps shape his journey and further contribute to the larger themes of loss and the consequences of a warrior's life, through which he has a nihilistic outlook on life.
Kohei is motivated by a desire for revenge, which further adds depth to his actions and interaction with Musashi, further contributing to the intensity of the story.
08) Ittosai
Ittosai is a legendary swordsman capable of cutting a gun in half; he was Kanemaki Jisai's main disciple and later defeated Jisai himself.
He was also Sasaki Kojiro's mentor, although he was unaccustomed to teaching the ways of the sword and often placed his disciples in dangerous situations. Ittosai's main motivation was recognition of his skills; this ambition has led to many rivalries, Musashi being one of them.
07) Yagyu Sekishusai
Sekishusai is an incredible swordsman, master of the Yagyu Shinkage-ryu style and leader of the Yagyu clan. His martial prowess was so high that he could repel Musashi's attack even when he was sick and asleep.
This intimidated Musashi. He later became Musashi's mentor to guide him in training a better swordsman, imparting philosophical and martial wisdom.
06) Inshun Hozoin
Hozoin is a monk descended from a goshi (country samurai) from Yamashiro province; he has mastered the Hozoin spear style, characterized by its unique techniques and emphasis on precision, making him a formidable opponent in combat.
His association with the Hozoin Temple and his disciplined and focused ways can be seen in the training and philosophy of the Hozoin Temple. Hozoin's interactions with Musashi and other characters include discussions about the nature of combat, the pursuit of mastery, and the philosophical foundation of martial arts.
05) I met Soho
Takuan is a Zen Buddhist monk currently serving at the Shippoji Buddhist Temple in Miyamoto Village, who serves as a mentor and friend to Musashi and acts as a big brother to Otsu. Takuan mentors Musashi in martial arts and matters of the mind and spirit.
He plays a vital role in Musashi's transformation from an impulsive wife and swordsman to a more enlightened and disciplined warrior. His beliefs revolve around a peaceful society, and the way of the sword can only be achieved if people commit to virtue and humility.
04) Herbaceous
Otsu is introduced as a childhood friend and love interest of Musashi. She is engaged to Matahachi Honiden but still has feelings for Musashi. This complex triangle involving her, Musashi, and Honiden adds complexity to the relationships, leading to better character dynamics.
Otsu acts as a foundation of emotional stability and peace in Musashi and Honiden's chaotic journey, providing continuity and an emotional connection to the story.
03) Matahachi Honiden
Honiden is Musashi's childhood friend, who as a child admired Musashi because he was cowardly and spineless. Honiden follows Musashi throughout his journey, but their paths diverge after the Battle of Seigakhara.
In the manga, Honiden represents the more human and flawed aspects of the story, one who has consequences and fights with love and loyalty, as opposed to Musashi, who is self-disciplined, earning him third place.
02) Sasaki Kojirō
Kojiro, who is deaf, is a renowned swordsman who has mastered the technique called "Tsubame Gaeshi". In the manga, he is Miyamoto Musashi's most important rival, but unlike Musashi, who is serious, Kojiro is playful.
So the contrasting personalities and approaches to life help create a compelling dynamic. Kojiro serves as Musashi's symbolic counterpart, and he is dedicated to fighting only those who dedicate their lives to the sword, thus he earns second place on the list.
01) Musashi Miyamoto
Musashi was very rebellious and impulsive in his youth; his ambitions were primarily centered around wanting to surpass his father, "Shinmen Takazo", who initially played a vital role in shaping Musashi's outlook on life.
But as he grew up and fought many adversaries, his understanding of life completely changed; Musashi understood that killing others was not the solution. Although he cannot escape death and murder, he strives to stop the duels to the death.
This outlook on life, philosophical exploration, and personal growth of Musashi sets him apart and earns him the top spot.
CONCLUSION
Vagabond is a historical manga where each character is accurate and based on the main character's point of view. In Vagabond, most of the interactions between characters make each of them more specific and larger than life, where legendary characters resemble God.
On the other hand, other characters are more human and more accessible. Each character that Musashi, our protagonist, passes through or confronts guides him further towards self-discovery, morality, and the pursuit of mastery as a swordsman.
Take care of yourself with lots of love.
Follow us for more updates.
Read also:
