Is Kunikida the Most Underrated Character in Bungo Stray Dogs?
It is difficult to uphold a lawful good morality in a plot where the most adored characters are so chaotic.
Kunikida Doppo: Bungo Stray Dogs’ Unsung Hero
Archetypes are a useful frame of reference when it comes to understanding characters. However, they can sometimes overshadow the depth and complexity of a character’s true essence. In the case of Bungo Stray Dogs, a series filled with a diverse cast of characters, one character that often goes unnoticed is Kunikida Doppo.
Kunikida, based on a pioneer of Japanese naturalism, plays a vital role in the series as a mentor to protagonist Atsushi Nakajima and the second-in-command of the Armed Detective Agency in Yukichi Fukuzawa’s absence. His ability, The Matchless Poet, allows him to recreate any item from memory as long as it fits within the confines of his notebook.
Who exactly is Kunikida Doppo? He is a principled man, committed to living a life of virtue. Every aspect of his life, from his dreams and aspirations to his daily schedule, is meticulously planned out in his notebook. While his rigid adherence to this structure may seem stifling, Kunikida sees it as a guiding light to contribute to society and uphold justice.
Naturally, a detail-oriented man like Kunikida finds himself constantly thrown off balance by the eclectic and eccentric personalities of his friends and colleagues. Despite his composed demeanor, he often finds himself venting his frustration, particularly towards the mischievous and carefree Osamu Dazai, whose contrasting personality serves as a perfect foil for Kunikida’s seriousness.
- How Civilization 7 Could Revolutionize the Gaming Experience
- Juhani: The Overlooked Gem in Star Wars: KOTOR
- 🌟 Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth: A Promising Continuation of the Epic Sto...
Speaking of Dazai, there’s no denying his popularity and the magnetic allure he brings to the story. But it’s worth highlighting just how crucial Kunikida is to Dazai’s character. The banter between them, with Kunikida representing the “good cop” to Dazai’s witty jabs, adds a unique charm to their interactions. In the early stages of the series, Kunikida’s partnership with Dazai in Season 1 showcases their dynamic perfectly.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room—why is Kunikida often overlooked compared to other characters in the series? He is a Lawful Good character, and that can sometimes be deemed as “boring” because they adhere to the rules. Audiences often resonate more with flawed characters who break the rules, as it can be cathartic and relatable. However, this overlooks the depth of character development that Kunikida undergoes.
What makes a character a favorite differs from person to person. It can be a significant character development moment or even a subtle scene that resonates on a personal level. In Kunikida’s case, he has two early moments that stand out—the Azure Messenger story and the adaptation of the first light novel. These arcs challenge his ideals and showcase how he grapples with maintaining them in the face of adversity.
Lawful Good characters often face conflicts rooted in their innate goodness, making them susceptible to being broken down by villains or their own flaws. However, the beauty of such characters lies in their growth and ability to confront their flaws. Kunikida’s struggles highlight the importance of striving for ideals despite the impossibility of perfection. The Azure Messenger case particularly leaves a lasting impact on him, adding depth to his character throughout the series.
It’s true that Kunikida has somewhat faded from the forefront of the series since Season 3. He has yet to have a defining moment that propels his story forward after the events of the Cannibalism arc. However, we can hope that the future arcs of Bungo Stray Dogs will provide him with exciting developments. It would be a disservice not to witness the conclusion of his quest for ideals—a journey that lies at the heart of this remarkable series.
Q&A: What else would readers want to know about Kunikida Doppo?
Q: Which other characters in Bungo Stray Dogs have an interesting dynamic with Kunikida?
A: Alongside his captivating interactions with Dazai, Kunikida also has a fascinating dynamic with Atsushi Nakajima, the series’ protagonist. Their contrasting personalities create an engaging dynamic that showcases Kunikida’s mentorship and Atsushi’s growth throughout the series.
Q: Does Kunikida’s ability, The Matchless Poet, play a significant role in the story?
A: Absolutely! Kunikida’s ability adds a unique layer to the narrative, allowing him to recreate items from memory. While it may not be as flashy as some other abilities in the series, it showcases his attention to detail and analytical skills, making him a valuable asset to the Armed Detective Agency.
Q: Are there any standout moments in Bungo Stray Dogs that highlight Kunikida’s character development?
A: Yes, there are several standout moments that showcase Kunikida’s growth and development. The Azure Messenger story and the adaptation of the first light novel are particularly significant, challenging Kunikida’s ideals and allowing us to witness the depths of his character.
Q: What other characters in Bungo Stray Dogs have a Lawful Good alignment?
A: Bungo Stray Dogs features several characters with a Lawful Good alignment. Notable examples include Yukichi Fukuzawa, the leader of the Armed Detective Agency, and Ranpo Edogawa, a brilliant detective with an unwavering dedication to justice.
Q: Will Kunikida have a more prominent role in future seasons of Bungo Stray Dogs?
A: While the series has yet to explore a significant arc centered around Kunikida in recent seasons, there is always the possibility of exciting developments in future episodes. As a compelling and enduring character, Kunikida’s presence in the story should not be underestimated.
Reference List:
- Bungo Stray Dogs on Crunchyroll
- The concept of archetypes in literature
- Background on the Japanese naturalist Kunikida Doppo
- Exploring the abilities of Bungo Stray Dogs characters
- The Bungo Stray Dogs light novels and their impact on the anime adaptation
- Lawful Good alignment in role-playing games
- Character development in storytelling
- Information about Bungo Stray Dogs seasons and episodes
