Death seems to be a more common theme in Naruto then in most other Shonen Jump mangas, but is it necessary,and what is the readers reaction? In Naruto manga chapter 614 readers once again witness the death of a beloved character. The emotional attachment to these characters can be viewed as childish to a non-anime/manga fan but to one who understands the culture, there is nothing worse then the pain of losing a fan favorite. Most readers have dedicated almost a decade to Naruto, they have watched the characters learn, grow and develop, this in turn makes it unbearably difficult to swallow the idea that they may never see Neji again. Death is a powerful tool in the art of story telling, building the relationship between the reader and the character is vital to correctly portraying the severity and gravity of the situation as well the emotional atmosphere that is present. When Neji dies in Chapter 614 the reader feels the same weight that crushes down upon Naruto as he cradles Neji’s lifeless body, they understand the sacrifice made, and that Neji’s sacrifice must not be in vain. Death when used correctly is an amazing way to get the reader engaged in the story, at the end of chapter 614 there is a common feeling of “Madara and Obito must pay for what they done!!”; this is a real feeling something that can only be created through years of character development. Through Neji’s death comes life, life in the manga, a pinch on the arm of the reader reminding them, that though only pages in a magazine their is still a heartbeat, a breath, a flicker of life in the eyes of what seemed to be a lifeless body; though a heavy price to pay it is essential the emotional needs of the reader. Nobody wants to see a beloved character die, but if the reader takes the time to really understand what death really brings to the story they will begin to see how much death makes a good manga into a great one. Kishimoto has truly master this art, from the timing, actions proceeding, the characters good or evil,and the response of the surrounding characters. Kishimoto has created real and raw emotion by combining all the right elements, and though it may hurt, just remember there is only greatness to come of it.
R.I.P Hyuuga Neji
