Saitō Hajime as a Foil to Kenshin's Character
Saitō Hajime as a Foil to Kenshin's Character
When it comes to the iconic anime and manga series Rurouni Kenshin, there is no doubt that the titular character, Himura Kenshin, is the star of the show. With his charming personality, unwavering sense of justice, and incredible swordsmanship skills, Kenshin has captured the hearts of fans all over the world. However, let's not forget about the other characters in the series, particularly Saitō Hajime, who serves as a foil to Kenshin's character.
The Strong and Silent Type
While Kenshin is known for his friendly and outgoing nature, Saitō is the complete opposite. He is often described as stoic and reserved, rarely showing any emotions. This contrast in personalities highlights the depth of their characters and makes them more interesting to watch.
But despite his cool and distant demeanor, Saitō is an incredibly strong and skilled swordsman, just like Kenshin. He is also a former member of the Shinsengumi, an elite group of swordsmen who once served the Tokugawa shogunate. This fact alone sets him apart from Kenshin, who has always been a ronin seeking atonement for his past actions.
A Different Code of Honor
One of the biggest differences between Saitō and Kenshin is their code of honor. While Kenshin abhors killing and will go to great lengths to avoid taking a life, Saitō has no qualms about ending his opponents' lives if necessary. This contrasting beliefs often put them at odds, causing tension and conflict between the two characters.
However, their differing views on life and death also demonstrate the complexity of their characters. It shows that even the best of friends can have conflicting beliefs, and that there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to matters of honor and morality.
A Shared History
Despite their differences, Saitō and Kenshin share an intriguing history that binds them together. In the past, Saitō was responsible for hunting down Kenshin, who was known as the "Hitokiri Battōsai" at the time. This adds another layer to their dynamic and makes their interactions all the more compelling.
Moreover, as the series progresses, it is revealed that Saitō and Kenshin fought on the same side during the Boshin War. This not only solidifies their connection but also highlights their growth as characters, as they both found a sense of purpose and redemption in fighting for what they believe in.
In Conclusion...
While Kenshin may be the beloved hero of Rurouni Kenshin, Saitō Hajime serves as an excellent foil to his character. From their contrasting personalities to their conflicting beliefs and shared history, Saitō's presence adds depth and complexity to the series. So the next time you rewatch or reread Rurouni Kenshin, don't forget to give some love to Saitō as well!
Header Image: (Kenshin Saito by leehatake93 on DeviantArt)