In Defense of Uzumaki Naruto [Essay]

[Darkhope]

I originally planned on posting this sooner, but life and laziness got in the way. I was almost about to give up, until my dear friend Kanae posted her Ino essay. That gave me the inspiration to continue my own.

Alright so, lately there has been a Naruto hate fest, and quite frankly, I'm tired of it. Honestly, I do not think he deserves as much hate as he's receiving, especially when he IS the main character. (That's right, people. The main character. No matter how much some try to deny it, it is pretty obvious Naruto WILL become the strongest and “incredible” ultimately in the end)

Even though I'll probably be neg repped for actually defending Naruto, I'd appreciate it if you guys would at least hear me out. Now, here are some beefs I've seen people have with him:

- He's a failure and he's stupid/oblivious!
- He's annoying and bossy! His temper is bad!
- Doesn't seem like he grew too much post-time. He is not impressive!
- Naruto uses Kage Bunshin and Rasengan too much! He needs new jutsus!
- He's too emo when it comes to Sasuke! No, he's too emo in general! He also is wasting his time going after Sasuke! He should give up!
- He has no control over Kyuubi! He seems to need Kyuubi in most of his fights. With out him, Naruto would be a horrible ninja!

Did I miss any? Probably. Oh well. These are the basics.

Before I begin my views on these arguments, I would like to address my analysis on Naruto in general.

Naruto, the main protagonist in the popular series, Naruto. I admit, it's very hard to describe in words and nail down the exact reasons as to why I like him so much, and why he's my favorite character. Usually, I hate the main characters. Well.. hate might be to strong of a word. Mildly dislike is much better suited. Anyway, I love both his heart, and the passion he brings into the series. He always finds someway to pull through, even when he fails constantly. The bonds he made with Team 7, with other characters, how he always tries to find good in everyone is very admirable. For example, when he says to Haku... if things were different: "We could have been friends."



There have been so many others aside from Haku that Naruto could relate with. Among them, is Gaara, who is also a Jinchuuriki. Naruto and Gaara share the burden of being a “monster” as well as being ignore and the pain of being alone. Naruto knows the pain of being rejected.


Haku's words even come back into play.

Naruto states:

"The pain of being alone... is out of this world, isn't it? I understand your feelings so much... it hurts."

The way he tries to connect with others is by comparing them to himself and those around him.

His friendship/brother ship/rivalry with Sasuke is in my opinion, one of the best relationships in manga/anime history. When Naruto makes a promise, he will never break it. Otherwise, that goes against his nindou, a nindou that he created himself. He made that promise on his blood, to stop running away. Now, I found that Kishimoto likes using Blood as a literary tactic in this series.



In this instance, he was promising himself and his teammates that he wouldn't run again. This was only the beginning. It become clear that Naruto was a character that would do anything and promise anything for anyone he felt the need to.

Somewhat off topic, but while I'm talking about blood: In Naruto, blood signifies a profound connection between people.

Consider: Hidan and Asuma.
When Hidan caught Asuma's blood on his scythe and then tasted it, the two of them were connected, despite fatal results for Asuma, it was a blood bond.

This isn't the first time we've seen this. Back in the beginning, during the fight with Mizuki, Iruka's blood fell on Naruto's face, symbolically connecting student and teacher.



With Iruka, it was shown he was another one Naruto could relate to.

An example of another Blood oath would be Naruto's to Hinata. He swore on her blood that he would defeat Neji. And guess what? He did. Going back to Gaara, (during part two; rescue Gaara arc) Naruto had vowed to save him. At first it looked as if he failed, and he felt horribly about it. Ultimately, Gaara was restored, and everyone thanks Naruto for everything he's gone for Suna. His current promise is to Sakura, his promise of a lifetime to fulfill her “life long wish” of Sasuke returning to Konoha.

When we first see Naruto, he is introduced as a trouble making brat. It's revealed why he is like that-He is the container of the Kyuubi. (Nine tailed fox) Sandaime discloses why Naruto was the “class clown.” It was to become the center of attention; something he lacked throughout his childhood years. It was apparent that Naruto was thrown into a cold world of hatred and scorn by a destiny beyond his control. Throughout his childhood, he is hated, and unloved by almost the entire village.

Nevertheless, he never let it show. Keeping a constant smile, and swearing to become the greatest Hokage the village has ever known, so that he would gain respect and acceptance. In gist, he wants to overcome the hate and show them all that he is actually worth something. He was the only one to fail the Genin Exam, yet he proved himself later on to earn the title. He makes mistakes, but he learns from them. He gets frustrated and angry, but he never forgets what his goals are and what really matters. He is the number one, unpredictable, hyperactive, knuckle-headed Ninja. He gradually gains respect among many, including the members of Team 7; his important bond of friendship.

Argument one: He's a failure and he's stupid/oblivious!

One of the reasons why I like Naruto is because he's NOT perfect. It would be boring if the main character had no flaws. Actually, I think just about every character in this series has some type of flaw. Naruto has improved a great deal since part one.

Kakashi even commented that he has surpassed him, (continued) and is the only one that may be able to surpass the 4th Hokage. This does not mean he's perfect. Do not forget, he did fail to bring back Sasuke once again post time.

What does it matter if he fails sometimes? Everyone does. He always tries to do the best he can.



"If I can't get to the other side, I'll always just be a kid. Please don't keep me from crossing that bridge."

He knows he can not be babied any longer. In order to save Sasuke and protect those precious to him, he must become stronger on his own. I remember awhile ago, people were complaining and ranting on how Naruto would own Kakuzu. This was around chapter 340 when he failed the first time, and some were angry. I think people were missing the point. It was like Naruto: Return of the underdog. I thought that was the main idea. I'm glad Naruto didn't win the first time, because he DID look like a Mary Sue. Just a tad. Naruto has failed in the past and he will never be perfect. He is NOT a “Zomg!1! MAIN MALE HERO THAT COMES AND SAVES THE DAY11!!” No. He is a character that went from being a COMPLETE dropout, to a character that is incredible and understanding.

As for him being stupid and oblivious, okay, yes, he can be that at times. But does it really matter? He doesn't necessarily need to have knowledge of all of these things that Sasuke, Neji, etc... have to be successful as a ninja. For the most part, Naruto does pretty well. Usually, he says all the right things, at exactly the right time.

To be continued-

[Darkhope]

Argument two: He's annoying and bossy! His temper is bad!

Not much to say here, though isn't this what makes Naruto, himself?

Okay, yes, so Naruto has been known to be a little bossy and have a short temper. In the beginning, yes, Naruto was a bit annoying. But we all know why.

Many characters have these problems. But honestly, in comparison to part one, I think he has gotten a lot better in this regard. He's been impulsive, but he has more or less listened to his senseis when they laid down the line; being a lot less argumentative about it.

Argument three: Doesn't seem like he grew too much post-time. He is not impressive!

In truth, we haven't seen as much as some expected. However, what we have been shown does count. Kishi has put subtle little hints around the manga, if you pay attention.

I.His usage of Kage Bunshin and Rasengan has improved.

II.His reaction to Chiyo attacking Kakashi.
III.The way Itachi was surprised. (Even though Naruto still lost, impressing Itachi has got to mean something)

While I'm not saying these things mean Naruto is mad strong, I AM saying that Kishi has left hints throughout part two, and is not yet finished with Naruto's power.

Again, compare him to how he was back in part one. He couldn't even throw a kunai straight or control his chakra well, but now he can use his elemental chakra. Naruto really doesn't just want people to accept him as a ninja, rather, he wants to earn this by showing everyone that he's capable. That looks like growth to me.

Argument four: Naruto uses Kage Bunshin and Rasengan too much! He needs new jutsus!

Yeah, yeah, those are his most used attacks, but at least he recently came up with SOME type of new technique. even though he's forbidden to use it now. Besides, who cares? As long as he gets the job done, I don't see why he can't use them. These are effective and dangerous jutsus if used well. Kage Bunshin has allowed Naruto to use:

- Uzumaki Naruto Nisen Rendan
- Uzumaki Naruto Rendan
- Shoryuken
- Bunshin Taiatari

And Rasengan? Very, very few can even learn/master it, let alone use it. It only took Naruto a week to learn it as well. This very move was created by the Fourth Hokage.

It's better to master two good jutsus rather than know about ten and completely mess them up in my opinion.

Argument five: He's too emo when it comes to Sasuke! No, he's too emo in general! He also is wasting his time going after Sasuke! He should give up!

Actually, Naruto has gotten a bit better. Consider:

- When Tsunade first informed him that Sasuke had killed Orochimaru:



This entire scene appears to be more hopeful than dreadful. Kishi purposely making Naruto “oblivious” and somewhat cheery; not emotional.

- When Kabuto mentioned Sasuke's name, he did not become hysterical.



Previously, whenever Sasuke's name was even mentioned, Naruto would become very emotional. This is one of the most recent events, as well as Team 7 and Team 8 on the trail to find Sasuke. Naruto has not been “emo” once throughout this entire arc. Hot tempered, maybe, but “emo”? No.

As for him giving up on Sasuke... I started this in the beginning of the essay. Naruto's nindou is:

“I'll never take back my words, because that's my way of the ninja!”

Now, why would Naruto want Sasuke back? Why did he go to such lengths to reach him? This is why:



^Not only because Naruto considers Sasuke as a brother, but also because Sasuke is the first bond that he's ever had. Why would he want to lose that? He's never had those bonds before.



^Naruto considers Sasuke a friend, despite what others think of the Uchiha and everything he's done.

To be continued-

[OmegaTrooper]

well put. naruto is, despite his shortcomings, a much deeper character (in a suprisingly subtle way) than alot of people give him credit for

[Darkhope]

Examples of his promise to bring Sasuke back:

- A promise to Sakura:



^She states that only Naruto can bring Sasuke back. Kiba asks if Naruto can keep that promise. He replies with his nindou.



To fulfill her life long wish, as well as go back to the old days of Team 7.

- A promise to Sasuke:



“Even if I have to break your arms and legs, I'll stop you!” He will not let Orochimaru have Sasuke.



"Like there's any chance someone who can't save a friend could become Hokage. Don't you think... Sasuke."

That's right, folks. Naruto has chosen Sasuke over his goal: To become Hokage. Let's rewind:

Kakashi: How about your dreams and goals (...) Now it's your turn.

Naruto: Me!! Me!! My name is Uzumaki Naruto, and I like cup ramen! What I like even more is the restaurant ramen Iruka sensei buys me! What I dislike is waiting 3 minutes for the ramen to cook... My dream...

Kakashi: *thinking* Does he think about anything else besides raman?

Naruto: ...is to surpass all the Hokages! And then... have all the people of this village acknowledge my existence!!
- Chapter 4

Does anyone else believe that when Kakshi asked Team 7 of their goals, it was a foreshadow? That maybe, just MAYBE, Naruto would become Hokage, Sasuke would revive his clan/kill a certain man, and Sakura would win Sasuke's heart?

Yes, we have heard him say it a million times by now. As I previously stated, Naruto's goal is to become Hokage, so that the entire village would acknowledge him. While this is still his goal, it has changed a bit in my opinion. In addition to becoming Hokage, I think Naruto now understands the importance of the bonds he has made with his friends, and will do anything to keep them.

- A promise to himself:





“If he rips my arms off I’ll kick him to death. If he rips my legs off I’ll bite him to death. If he rips my head off I’ll stare him to death. And if he gouges my eyes out I’ll curse him from beyond my grave!”

He WILL train hard.

And, he will do everything in his power to bring Sasuke home. So people, no, Naruto will not “give up” on Sasuke. He is also not “wasting time” either, simply because this is something he wants to do.

To be continued-

[Darkhope]

“Watch me...!”

Argument six: He has no control over Kyuubi! He seems to need Kyuubi in most of his fights. With out him, Naruto would be a horrible ninja! He needs more control over his emotions!

We all know Naruto is sensitive. Always was, and always will be. If his friends are in trouble, or if innocent people are in danger, his emotions will trigger. Everyone needs to cry sometimes. And it's okay. Naruto really does not have control over his emotions, I will not deny this. He speaks his mind, and follows his heart. Really, who could blame him? Look at his past and how badly he was treated. He cried back then. Maybe not much, because he tried to act tough, but we have seen scenes in which he's cried. I don't think anyone would be “human” if they did not have emotions. These emotions and feelings is what makes him, himself.

The Kyuubi is probably one of the many things that has hurt him. But at the same time, it has saved him. When Naruto is half dead, Kyuubi can heal him. And Naruto is protecting people by just BEING the container, that way, the Kyuubi is unable to destroy villages and kill various amounts of individuals.

All in all, Naruto being a “kind” and “good” character isn't a bad thing. He still has that cocky sense of humor, he's stubborn, and is a hothead. Truthfully, the boy wears his heart on his sleeve and sometimes lacks common sense. But that's why I love him. His personality is what attracts me to him.

Yes, he does use Kyuubi a lot. Again, so what? He has other moves aside from Kyuubi, but if worse comes to worse, why not use the power that was given to him at birth? Besides, relaying on the strength of the Kyuubi, is NOT Naruto's true strength anyway:



Hm. Alright well, I'm tired now. Questions, comments, anything is acceptable. Thank you for reading.

EDIT: I see we have an issue.

People, this essay wasn't meant to change minds or to prove that Naruto > Sasuke. Just to defend Naruto, and show that he doesn't deserve all the hate he's been getting. If you read carefully, you'll see I didn't compare Naruto and Sasuke skill wise at all. In fact, I love both characters.

[Frequent Sunshine]

Wow. Pro-Naruto. This was refreshing to read. +reps. ^_^

[Darkhope]

^Thank you! ^^

Originally Posted by OmegaTrooper

well put. naruto is, despite his shortcomings, a much deeper character (in a suprisingly subtle way) than alot of people give him credit for

Thanks. Yep, and that's exactly why I chose to write this. To defend him and show how deep his character truly flows.

[Paizuri]

Nice analysis! Naruto isn't the main character for kicks. I wish people would understand that.

[Kusogitsune]

Nice. Very nice.

[Darkhope]

Originally Posted by kusogitsune

Nice. Very nice.

Thanks! ^^

Originally Posted by Paizuri

Nice analysis! Naruto isn't the main character for kicks. I wish people would understand that.

Thanks! Me too, me too. -.-'

[Denji]

Great job! I'm glad to see that somebody else notices the depth in his character.

[Darkhope]

Originally Posted by Denji

Great job! I'm glad to see that somebody else notices the depth in his character.

Thank you! Heh, I'm glad others (as in the people commenting positively) sees his character deeply as well! ^^

[Raiden]

Very good, I will post links to this in the Discussion thread to show everybody that Naruto is truly not so far behind Sasuke. The Sasuke vs. Naruto fans wars has been outrageous in there this evening. The thread went up like one thousand points. Only recently has everything quelled. Bottomline: Excellent. Truly Excellent. One of the best threads I've ever seen.

[GaaraOTD3]

i love this essay it gave me reasons to admire naruto.
good job

[MisterQ]

Great examination of Naruto, if only more people on here would read the manga instead of just looking at the pictures

[Darkhope]

Originally Posted by the Divine Emperor

Very good, I will post links to this in the Discussion thread to show everybody that Naruto is truly not so far behind Sasuke. The Sasuke vs. Naruto fans wars has been outrageous in there this evening. The thread went up like one thousand points. Only recently has everything quelled. Bottomline: Excellent. Truly Excellent. One of the best threads I've ever seen.

Thanks! The only reason Sasuke looks greater than Naruto is because Kishi has shown more of Sasuke's "amazing" tactics all in one go. With Naruto, he's taking his time and leaving various hints throughout the manga.

Originally Posted by Gaara_of_the_Desert33

i love this essay it gave me reasons to admire naruto.
good job

Thank you. I admire him too! ^^

Originally Posted by MisterQ

Great examination of Naruto, if only more people on here would read the manga instead of just looking at the pictures

Thanks! I agree, I agree. In this series, it's not about what is obvious. You must look deeper than that.

[Yakushi Kabuto]

Ah, I also usually have this kind vague dislike towards the main protagonist for any given series. While yes, I did find Naruto annoying initially, I started liking him for the things you mentioned, particularly how he does not give up and how he desire to protect people despite how he was treated early on. It amuses me since I also like characters that pretty much say 'screw the world' because of how they were treated. Your look at blood within the series was interesting, I liked it. Agreed that perfect protagonists are dull, imperfections are endearing and make a character human.

[Darkhope]

Originally Posted by Yakushi Kabuto

Ah, I also usually have this kind vague dislike towards the main protagonist for any given series. While yes, I did find Naruto annoying initially, I started liking him for the things you mentioned, particularly how he does not give up and how he desire to protect people despite how he was treated early on. It amuses me since I also like characters that pretty much say 'screw the world' because of how they were treated. Your look at blood within the series was interesting, I liked it. Agreed that perfect protagonists are dull, imperfections are endearing and make a character human.

Do you really? Nice to see I'm not alone.

It's funny, because I never found Naruto that annoying. (Though I know many others have and do) I guess it's because I always saw the good in him. Oh, I agree. The desire to protect the village [Hokage's job after all] that called him a monster and treated him horribly is very admirable. I don't know if I could have handled that. Heh well Kishi is obsessed with blood. xD

Thanks for reading and the comments! ^^

[plumfit]

wonderful analysis, and not irritating or over idealistic. It was very well thought out. You've put it perfectly. he's my favorite character, too, so maybe I'm being biased, but I thought it was a very objective essay with great backup.

[LazerGod121]

omg... rie you've outdone yourself... this was an excellent essay and I really enjoyed reading it...

finally someone defending naruto...