Jujutsu Kaisen is now just two chapters away from its thrilling climax, with the author, Gege Akutami, striving to tie up all the narrative loose ends. As expected, the fandom desires transparency from the creator, yet such clarity is not always feasible. Compounding this, one of the most significant misunderstandings within the community pertains to the complex relationship between Sukuna and Itadori.
Many fans expressed discontent with Itadori’s display of pity towards Sukuna, as they felt the antagonist should face a fitting end—specifically, experiencing the same humiliating defeat as Gojo Satoru.
However, Gege Akutami had the opportunity to redeem this in chapter 265, which many fans overlooked. The symbolism presented in each panel illustrated how Akutami crafted a much-needed resolution for both Itadori and Sukuna.
Disclaimer: This article contains potential spoilers from the Jujutsu Kaisen manga series and reflects the author’s opinion.
Jujutsu Kaisen: Analyzing the Symbolism of Yuji and Sukuna in Yuji’s Domain Expansion
In Jujutsu Kaisen chapter 264, after Sukuna deftly evaded Hana Kurusu’s Maximum Jacob’s Ladder and dealt with her and Aoi Todo, fans were treated to an intense one-on-one confrontation between Ryomen Sukuna and Itadori Yuji.
Following a series of impactful Black Flash techniques, Itadori seized the moment to activate his unnamed domain expansion.
Upon activation, both Yuji and Sukuna found themselves in a unique time-space, reminiscent of a train station in Sendai, Itadori’s hometown.
While the mechanics of Yuji’s domain expansion remain a mystery due to the lack of clarification from the author, the rich symbolism within it effectively redeemed some earlier narrative choices concerning these characters.
As chapter 265 unfolds, Yuji and Sukuna exit the train station, where Itadori eagerly points out a statue that Sukuna clearly shows no interest in. Subsequently, Itadori continues to highlight local attractions, but Sukuna’s disinterest further emphasizes that Itadori cherishes life’s simple pleasures.
Conversely, when discussions turned to competitive activities, Sukuna exhibited immediate interest, regardless of how trivial the challenge might be—such as their juvenile crawfish-catching contest. This contrast underscores Itadori’s enjoyment of the mundane compared to Sukuna’s occasional enthusiasm.
Moreover, as the chapter progresses, Sukuna’s temper starts to flare, signaling that the antagonist becomes increasingly irate in the protagonist’s company—further solidifying the idea that Itadori and Sukuna are two sides of the same coin.
Despite the fandom’s insistence on asserting their personalities as unrelated, their journey through Yuji’s domain clarifies the intricate dynamics between them.
Additionally, the most contentious moment—where Itadori expresses pity for Sukuna—highlights the depth of their contrasting personalities. While Sukuna is shown as someone who avoids saving others, Itadori embodies a character who values all forms of life, human or otherwise.
Thus, just as Itadori mourned Choso‘s demise, feeling compassion for Sukuna is reflective of his role as the antithesis to the King of Curses.
Ultimately, this sentiment resonates with a curse Itadori inherited from his grandfather in his final moments, urging Yuji to utilize his strength for the sake of others.
Leave a Reply