Berserk: Why Griffith is The Series’ Most Divisive Character

Berserk: Why Griffith is The Series' Most Divisive Character

Key Takeaways

  • Griffith’s rise to power with the Band of the Falcon led to the ultimate betrayal with the sacrifice of his group.
  • Some fans understand Griffith’s actions as selfish and realistic, making him one of the most divisive characters in Berserk.
  • While some empathize with his quest to fulfill his lifelong dream, Griffith’s monstrous ambition and actions still mark him as the series’ biggest villain.

As a seasoned Berserk fanatic with countless hours spent immersed in the dark and twisted world of Midland, I must say that Griffith is undeniably one of the most divisive characters to ever grace the anime/manga scene. The man’s actions are as complex as they are heinous, making him a fascinating character study in the realm of human ambition, selfishness, and the lengths people will go to fulfill their dreams.


The tale, titled “Berserk,” is a rollercoaster ride for its central figures, brimming with both triumphs and tribulations. The land of Midland teems with peril lurking at every turn, from invading forces to ruthless bands of mercenaries and assassins, to horrifying monstrosities that haunt dreams. However, it’s humans who may prove the most treacherous, with Griffith serving as a chilling reminder of this fact.

Regarding the Berserk fandom, some fans make assertions that ‘Griffith was not in the wrong’. Whether they genuinely believe this or use it as a playful jab at other series fans, it raises the question of how Griffith, despite performing heinous acts to achieve his goals, remains such a contentious character within the entire series. To explore why this is the case and understand why some still see his actions as justifiable, let’s delve into the reasons behind these perspectives.

Griffith’s Ascent To Power

A Look At How He Fell From Grace

First AppearanceBerserk, Chapter L0, “Golden Age (4)”
Debut DateNovember 1, 1991
Story ArcGolden Age Arc

To numerous viewers, Griffith is often seen as one of the most wicked characters within the realm of anime and manga. However, to grasp why he’s viewed this way, it’s essential to delve into the events that shaped him into the person we know today. As a young orphan, Griffith found himself serving at a castle. His aspiration, from an early age, was to one day rule over a kingdom, which eventually led him to establish his mercenary group during his teenage years.

Originally called the Falcon Band, this group eventually rose to become the most powerful in Midland, even ending the Century War for peace. Yet, at the height of their power, Guts chose to depart, explaining to Griffith and the rest that he couldn’t devote his entire life to someone else’s ambition. Instead, he sought to discover his own purpose to be deserving of standing alongside Griffith as a man worthy of respect.

Even if he hates me or considers me a traitor, I must go.

Regardless of all the actions Griffith undertook to achieve his goals, Guts leaving the Band of the Falcon wasn’t one of them, for Griffith realized that Guts’ presence was crucial for everything to fall into place. After Guts departed, Griffith charmed Princess Charlotte from the Midland Kingdom but was eventually apprehended, spending a year in prison. This ordeal further strained his mental health as he grappled with the notion that his long-held dream might not materialize.

For a year, he endured in the deepest depths of the Midland dungeons, transforming into little more than an empty shell with both body and spirit severely damaged. All that filled his thoughts were dreams of Guts and the promise he made to fulfill them. In time, the Band of the Falcon rescued him, but what unfolded next was one of the most shocking betrayals in anime/manga history. Desperate to achieve his dream, he conjured the Godhand using the Crimson Behelit during an eclipse, leading to the tragic sacrifice of his entire mercenary team.

Why He’s So Divisive

Why Some Sympathize With Griffith

Even though Griffith brutally lost those dearest to him and the few who genuinely cared for him, some fans find his actions abhorrent yet understandable. This paradox reflects the depth of Griffith’s character and the relatability of his motivations. Despite projecting a friendly image and easily earning loyalty, he was ruthless in pursuing his ambition.

It’s strikingly relatable that his behavior mirrors human nature, as people often act selfishly, even if they appear kind or approachable. Given an opportunity, many would not think twice about sacrificing others to obtain what they desire. This is why Griffith’s actions resonate so strongly with disapproval because they seem distressingly real and familiar.

Although nobody approves or endorses his despicable actions, they can fathom that every act he committed, regardless of its horrific nature, was intended to pave the way for his return to the world as the Falcon of Light. In this manner, Griffith achieved his own kingdom and rose to become the ruler of the Apostles, causing the common folk of the world to perceive him as a divine savior fighting against the forces of darkness.

To put it simply, Griffith stands out as the main source of trouble among these sinister forces. He’s a ruthless being with no regard for others, always prioritizing his own desires over their well-being. Consequently, regardless of how close or cherished they believe he is, those around him can never be certain of their safety from his ambition. Despite the fact that many argue he did whatever was necessary to realize his dream, his actions are widely seen as reprehensible, earning him the title of the most monstrous character in the world of Berserk.

Berserk can be streamed on Crunchyroll and Amazon Prime.

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2024-11-09 21:34