Following the recent release of the latest Jujutsu Kaisen spoilers, fans witnessed the apparent conclusion of the series as Ryomen Sukuna met his demise at the hands of Yuji Itadori. As the discussion surrounding the upcoming chapter 268 continues, much of the focus remains on Sukuna’s divisive fate.
Despite the lack of a Heian era flashback, additional backstory, or a grand finale for the strongest sorcerer in history, many are arguing that Sukuna’s downfall is extremely underwhelming. However, some argue that this is a fitting end for Sukuna, considering both his character development and the writing style of mangaka Gege Akutami in their recent works.
Despite valid arguments being presented from both sides, the most recent Jujutsu Kaisen spoilers suggest that Sukuna’s death is in line with his character. This is particularly evident in his beliefs about love and how they are shaped by his origins, historical role, and the overarching themes of the series.
Sukuna’s Reflection on Love and Strength in Jujutsu Kaisen’s Climax
From its inception, Jujutsu Kaisen has explored the idea of love in both platonic and romantic forms. However, the focus primarily lies on the former, as evidenced by Wasuke’s message to Yuji at the beginning of the series. Ultimately, the series poses the question: what does it mean to truly receive love, whether in life or in death, if not to be surrounded by those who care for you?
In addition to Yuji, another character who was deeply influenced by this theme was Hajime Kashimo. This was particularly evident during his confrontation with Sukuna, leading up to their final conversation where Sukuna shared his thoughts on love. Essentially, Sukuna believes that being loved means being resilient, respected, and tested by others for your strength, and reciprocating that love means facing those challenges head-on with your full strength.
In chapter 238 of Jujutsu Kaisen, Sukuna continues by stating that although he comprehends the concept of love, he deems it to be insignificant. This belief likely arises from the fact that he is revered as the most powerful sorcerer in history, similar to how Gojo was idolized as the strongest sorcerer of the present.
However, Yuji and the “new age”of sorcerers have a different perspective and resist the traditional belief of admiring and isolating the strongest individual, as well as the concept of “the strongest”itself. Yuta Okkotsu’s aspiration to become a “monster”alongside Gojo is a perfect illustration of this. This is also why Sukuna’s downfall at the hands of a group of people is so fitting; it goes against his own values of love and being defeated by a sole apex predator who reigns above him would only validate them.
By having Yuji deliver the final blow, the message is strengthened as Sukuna frequently belittled Yuji as a talentless and naive individual incapable of saving anyone. Despite this, with the support of his comrades, Yuji was able to harness his abilities and ultimately defeat Sukuna. This ultimately allows Sukuna to remain true to his beliefs while also validating Yuji’s own ideals through his defeat of Sukuna in the conclusion of Jujutsu Kaisen.
The Shinjuku Showdown arc not only served as a fierce battle, but also reinforced Sukuna’s understanding of love. Throughout the fight, each individual took turns confronting him, rarely teaming up in groups larger than three or four. However, even in the most literal interpretation of Sukuna’s beliefs, there were still instances in the campaign that could be seen as declarations of love in his perspective.
Despite being offered the chance to give up his ideals of love in order to prolong his life, he refuses and remains convinced that he is destined to be a curse until the very end. This further reinforces the fact that he viewed the Shinjuku Showdown as an act of love, showcasing his unwavering devotion to his beliefs. It serves as a testament to his unwavering determination to be known as “the strongest”and the true meaning of his love.
Ultimately, his self-proclaimed King of Curses title is deeply connected to his beliefs about love. To him, it serves as a testament to the love he received and was able to reciprocate. After attaining such a high status and experiencing a form of love during the Shinjuku Showdown, it is understandable that he would refuse Yuji’s offer. It is possible that Sukuna even faced death with some level of contentment and acceptance, despite any apprehension or fear he may have had.
The quickness of Sukuna’s demise in Jujutsu Kaisen is justified by the fact that chapter 265 was his last chance for redemption or a change of heart. There was no reason for Sukuna to doubt his decision before his death, as Yuji had already given him the opportunity to do so, which he ultimately refused. By having Sukuna’s end be abrupt, it delivered the necessary level of finality and certainty that his character demanded after the events of chapter 265.
In chapter 238, Sukuna declares that he lives according to his own ideals, indulging in whatever he desires, playing with whatever he desires, and killing whatever he desires. Chapter 268 reaffirms this as Sukuna stays true to his words, choosing to die according to his own beliefs. He rejects Yuji’s offer because it goes against his own understanding of love, and he embraces his death as it confirms his interpretation of love. This is a fitting end for the strongest, as they lived and died by their own principles.
Concluding Remarks
Despite the controversy surrounding Sukuna’s death in Jujutsu Kaisen, it remains a perfect conclusion for his character and effectively reinforces his beliefs as they have been portrayed throughout the series. While some may disagree with the outcome, the entirety of his demise remains in line with Akutami’s established storytelling and themes. This showcases Akutami’s skill in creating one of the most compelling villains in recent shonen history and deserves recognition.
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