Kakashi Hatake is known to be a fan favorite and one of the most popular characters in the Naruto series. He is the mentor of the protagonist, Naruto Uzumaki, and has played a significant role throughout the series. However, despite his popularity, there have been debates about his morality and whether he is a good or bad character.
Many fans argue that Kakashi is a good character because of his heroic actions and his loyalty to his friends and village. On the other hand, some fans argue that Kakashi is a bad character because of his questionable actions and his lack of empathy towards others. So, is Kakashi really a bad character?
A Deeper Look into Kakashi’s Childhood Trauma
To understand Kakashi’s character better, we need to look into his childhood trauma. Kakashi’s father, Sakumo Hatake, was a renowned ninja who committed suicide after making a controversial decision that caused the deaths of his teammates. This event traumatized Kakashi and caused him to adopt a strict adherence to the rules and moral code of the Shinobi world.
Kakashi’s trauma has led him to be emotionally distant and detached from his peers, making it difficult for him to form close relationships. This emotional detachment is often perceived as a lack of empathy towards others.
The Erosion of Kakashi’s Morality
Despite his strict adherence to the Shinobi code, there have been instances where Kakashi has acted questionably. In the series, he has used his signature technique, the Chidori, to kill his comrades during the Third Great Ninja War. He also allowed Sasuke Uchiha to escape after he defected from the Leaf Village, leading to his involvement in the Fourth Great Ninja War.
These actions have caused many fans to question Kakashi’s morality, and whether he is truly a good character.
Kakashi’s Severe Case of PTSD: An Analysis
Kakashi’s traumatic experiences have caused him to suffer from severe post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This condition has caused him to be emotionally numb, detached, and distant from others. He often struggles with guilt, shame, and regret, which further exacerbates his PTSD.
It is essential to understand that Kakashi is not a bad character because of his PTSD. Instead, his condition makes him more human and relatable, adding a layer of complexity to his character.
The Justification of Kakashi’s Actions
While some may argue that Kakashi’s actions are unforgivable, it is essential to understand the context behind them. In the Shinobi world, sometimes difficult decisions need to be made for the greater good. The Third Great Ninja War was a brutal conflict, and sometimes the only way to ensure victory was to make difficult sacrifices.
Furthermore, Kakashi’s decision to allow Sasuke to escape was made to prevent a greater conflict. Had he captured Sasuke, it would have led to a full-blown war between the Leaf Village and the Uchiha Clan.
The Redemption of Kakashi: Examining His Growth as a Character
Despite his questionable actions, Kakashi has grown significantly as a character throughout the series. He has learned to open up emotionally, forming close bonds with Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura. He has also become a better teacher, guiding his students and helping them overcome their struggles.
Kakashi’s redemption arc culminates in the Fourth Great Ninja War, where he plays a pivotal role in the defeat of Kaguya Otsutsuki. His heroism and willingness to sacrifice himself for the greater good demonstrate his growth as a character.
The Reception of Kakashi Among Fans and Critics
Despite the controversy surrounding his character, Kakashi remains a fan favorite. His popularity can be attributed to his cool demeanor, his signature mask, and his iconic techniques.
Critics often praise Kakashi’s character for his complexity and his growth throughout the series. His PTSD and traumatic experiences make him a relatable and human character, adding depth to the story.
In conclusion, Kakashi is not a bad character. His traumatic experiences and severe PTSD have caused him to act questionably at times, but it is essential to understand the context behind his actions. Kakashi’s redemption arc and growth as a character demonstrate his heroism and his willingness to improve.