Kenzo Tenma and Johan Liebert: Two Sides of the Same Coin (Monster)
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 8 ก.ย. 2024
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Music used:
Song 1 - Mechanical Kingdom (Radiant Historia)
Song 2 - Protagonist's Theme (Final Fantasy Tactics)
Song 3 - It's a Long Way To Go (Monster)
Song 4 - Drift Mind (Monster)
Song 5 - Bouyomi (Owarimonogatari)
Song 6 - Shinobu Oshino's Theme (Nisemonogatari)
Explaining The Ending of Monster: • Explaining The Ending ...
Monster is one of the greatest manga ever written, but look how cool Killua's skateboard is.
nice one mate, now we know you've been listening very well xD
Exactly
Well i like kenma.
...This is why I love Monster so much. It's a Hegelian Dialectic in a way; with Tenma being the thesis of the inherent good in people, while Johan rises to become his antithesis of evil and nihilism. As both men come to clash, they come to a synthesis, where Tenma learns that nihilism and misery are just as much a part of people as compassion is and that holding on to love and purpose are what can help this side to grow, whereas Johan learns to move past the overwhelming despair as to move forward in life. Even though one could say Tenma won, both men are changed in the conflict by the other's viewpoints.
Geobukseon this is so great. I love your points, and I do believe that these two points help to paint a somewhat bright side of Monster.
Geobukseon Damn I'm in awe, excellent (mini)analysis and phrasing of your ideas! o.o Couldn't agree more.
Best comment.
Nice.
Geobukseon nice writing
I remember watching Monster and viewing Tenma’s change throughout the story. The idea of him loosing his faith and humanity and his hope for a better future really frightened me. His persistence in tracking down Johann was really admirable to me. Tenma saw it as his duty to kill him. As the story progressed, he seemed so sad, a shell of what he once was. And I cried tears of joy in the last episode, seeing him vibrant and happy once again.
I especially freaked out in second last episode when Johan began to show him "The End of the World". It looked to me like Johan would actually make Tenma the monster as he himself went on.
l actually wanted him to become a "monster"
@@kakashihatake6176 Why?
Hehe
Same man, I was so scared of him falling into nihilism 😫
_When you gaze in the abyss, the abyss gazes back at you._
When you slay a monster be sure you don’t become one too.
"when death smile's at you, all you can do is smile back."
Selena from mobile legends
Berserk reference
@@ayushlimbu5983 possible but originally from Nietzsche
I’m a simple man, I see Monster related content, I come running and leave a like.
jaja te amooo, I'm a simple man tooo
Tilts sombrero fedora bucket hat*
Same
doesn't make sense at all
Go to my channel
If you want Johan Shitposts
Not really self advertising since I did this for Naoki fans
Tenma is my favorite character in Monster! It's a shame he's usually overshadowed.
I agree, but with a character like Johan opposing him, it's not hard to see why.
Yep! And don't forget Lunge and Grimmer.
I like those characters as well along with Eva. Also got a theory about Nina which would make her more interesting. Tenma is just my favorite becouse he's constantly being challenged. He knows the world is cruel and does whatever he can to make a change. Always taking the hard road, even if there's nothing to gain for himself.
It's similar case with Batman and the Joker, the Joker usually overshadows him.
@@genghiskhan7691 Pretty good comparison!
I love how your video focuses mostly on Tenma. Johan is usually the most discussed character in Monster which is a shame because other characters such as Tenma, Grimmer and Lunge are equally interesting and well-written
If life is suffering, saving someone's life (role of a doctor) is the cruelest act you can commit. That's why kenma can't let anyone fall into despair
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT JOHAN IS THAT he never showed any emotions no pain, happiness, regret, disapointment, anger, hate, or even lust for killing.
DOT Psychopaths dont have feelings.
Wrong. They experience a lot of emotions and feelings, they just can't symphathize or put themselves in others shoes, no empathy.
He actually did start to show some emotion there at the end. But yeah, besides that, it's like he's not even human, more like a malevolent force of nature itself. I believe Monster is a true work of genius.
I feel like it’s very similar to Chrollo from hxh but it’s more explored in Johan than Chrollo. Simply because we know why he became that way, and what his views on human life and the value of it are to him. Idk i rlly didn’t understand the series that much but i did enjoy the thrill from it. Hopefully Togashi gets better soon and starts writing more hxh so he can give us some more insight to the characters
But what about the part where Johan crying when he reading the nameless monster?
Such a brilliant character dichotomy. One of the best villains, and an underrated protagonist. I see a lot of people saying Tenma wasn’t the best protagonist and the show is carried by Liebert which is crazy to me, definitely one of the best anime protagonists.
Monster would be incomplete without either of them.
Tenma is literally the most frustrating part of this whole series.
Atleast for me.
This anime definitely needed both characters. Johan was Carried by evil , and Tenma was Carried by kindness. Without tenma , we wouldn't see how little and vulnerable Johan really is
Can I just say I would LOVE a German dub for this show.
Its like the one thing I want. Also the live-action series Guillermo Del Toro promised years ago.
Also English and Spanish dub are really good
@@xJ4R3x Where can I see the Spanish dub?
Wait, there doesn't exist a German dub of this show? I was about to say that's so stupid since that's the perfect language to dub it in, but thinking about it further the show does cover some controversial subjects that would be touchy for a german mainstream audience. So, it's understandable why any german dubbing company wouldn't want to dub this anime.
@@Hendrixcks This generation isn't more sensitive than other generations just the topics have changed. When ›life of brian‹ was made, people where enraged because of its blasphemy and they would have been also angry and whiney if a film producer would have dared to include an openly gay character in their movie. And I also doubt that the series hasn't a german dub because of the reasons R0-83-RT suggests. I think the companys just don't see any money in it. To dub a series with 74 episodes is expensive and Monster with dub hasn't many selling points. Everyone who is interested so deeply in Anime, that they would buy and watch such an old series with 74 episodes has already seen it with sub.
That coin reference is so fitting. Most of the time the both sides of the arguments, (especially those who judge others morals) seem to be using SAME arguments when the tables turn around. And they don't even realize it, they have become the same, but just mirror reflection of each others.
Just after I'd finished watching your other Monster analyses, this is the icing on the cake. Suffice it to say, very well done, this is incredible.
Thanks so much mate, I appreciate it.
Hey Aleczandxr could you do a video on who you think the real "monster" is in monster? I think it would be very interesting, seeing as how you've done a great job analysing these characters and the show itself. I personally think its Franz Bonaparta but id love to to see your take on it.
God 47 I probably won’t be doing any more videos on Monster but check out my “Power and Dominance in Death Note” video for an allusion to what I believe the monster in Monster to be. I don’t think it’s any one person and that video, despite being on a different series, describes it well.
Aleczandxr Ah ok fair enough. I have watched that video, but ill check it out again to refresh my memory. Thanks for replying.
@@JM-vm9xs I am like 2 years late but can you tell me why you think Franz Bonaparta is the real monster?
Johan Liebert the greatest villain in anime, and monster the greatest anime of all time
Not only the greatest anime. But one of the greatest stories of fiction ever
Nameless Monster agreed (edit) i havent seen a fictional series that tops this as of yet.
Definitly.
No. King Meruem is still better.
No kira yoshikage is the best villain.
Most underrated anime of all time
Wouldn't call it underrated, maybe just not as big as it deserves to be. Though that's kinda normal with a lot of media.
I wouldn't say it's underrated personally, just underwatched. (As haunt said)
lol it one of the most acclaimed anime series
@@itamar4117 Not that much though.
it's not underrated, it's just that sometimes, it's or you love it or you hate it, and that's what I know I loved it, and I know my sister hated it :(
Monster is the best thriller ever. You can't change my mind.
Indeed
LIKE YEEEA; I want to recommend you to watch Magi. It's from a different genre but it feels the same way, in a strange way, like i canno't explain it.
@@aminrosli9744 Hello again.
Can we get to 100 subs before the 1st of May? Wait.... I wrote this?? Haha I didn’t remember at all
@@aminrosli9744 It was probably just for the profile pic xD
Love this show
Hey Tsiah
Tfw you find out Trish also watches this show lol
Nice
Will you ever make anything not Fate related again?
I loved your Yusuke analysis but couldn't care less about the Fate series
hello
YES!!! Monster is in my top three!
I love the insight you lend to your videos. When I go back and rewatch stuff that you have discussed, it's almost like seeing it for the first time because I'm able to see it from such a different point of view than my own.
Your ability to dive into characters the way you do is so unique. It's almost like I'm listening to the creators behind the characters.
You're amazing, keep up the great work!
Grey Aria just curious .. what are your top 3?
The Crouching Dragon
In no particular order they are:
Here and There, Now and Then
Monster
Ghost in the Shell
If you don't count Here and There, Now and Then as a show, and most people really don't, then probably toss FMA Brotherhood or Rurouni Kenshin/Samurai X up there.
What about you?
Aw, I'm so happy to hear that. Thank you so much for these words of support, it honestly means a lot to me!
Grey Aria well.. I haven't really watched that much but I am planning to watch the top rated series .. I'll give 5 intead of 3, and they are (with no order):
Steins;Gate
Monster
Code Geass
Death Parade
Baccano!
my top 1 is monster, no.2 is code geass and no.3 is hxh2011
First of all: Great video!
Good and Evil, Light and Dark. These same words are scathered all over "Monster", "Pure Evil" is the term a lot of characters use to describe Johan. These same expressions were used by you a lot, discussing "Monster". However, going through "Monster" the question between what is good and what is evil is being asked multiple times, simultaneously. Urasawa actually chose one of the darkest times, in the world (post world war II in eastern germany) to ask this question. And I was almost expecting a fight club kind of plot twist where Johan and Kenzo were the same. As you pointed out, they act under the same prism of ideals, but one seems like the pure "evil" while the other the brightest "good". We see a little of everything in this story, and "Monster" as the title is perfect. You see all kinds of monsters throughout the story, regretful monsters, afraid monsters and almost, if not all monstruosities seem to converge on the tip of THE Monster. Now, this is after a war and believeng that all evil is the product of the corruption effect from the monster makes no sense. So, this monster was actually just a very influential one.
As you see evil actions spreading you also see the good ones too. Kenzo's journey is about increasing his allies through good actions while being violently discarded of people who he didn't do anything good to. Johan's journey is about manipulating his allies through a parasitic way, since he has no interest in keeping them or caring for them.
Kenzo is constantly conflicted about if he could kill. Killing a human is the antithesis of himself. Urasawa never really concludes on that topic, but I think the keyword is on the value the human life is given. There was always something weird for me, from the start. Why is an asian man on the most racist point of the globe when he has no interest other than improving his career. And I think, not only because it's a manga, Eastern europe had a lot of similarities with most of asia when it came to the human life value. Times were rough, poverty hitted, and the ashes of war and oppression are still settling. Similar atmospheres were being felt all over Japan, but asia in general. The biggest difference between Johan and Kenzo, and the only difference that matters was on how much value does one give to a human life. Kenzo seems to give all the value he could possibly think of while Johan seems to give the least amount he could. And the difference is clear.
This is what I took from monster.A very realistic set, criticizing almost all sectors and classes in a modern society with a little fantasy, just enough to enphasize how such a simple thing (the human life value) can affect the outcome of your actions, regardless your motivations, and make all the difference between Kenzo and the Monster.
Always a great day when I see a upload from this channel! Then it's about one of my favorite anime too: _"Monster"_
:)
Monster IS the greatest anime of all time! The plot devices constantly used in this story are insanely absolute and beautiful! As someone with a rough childhood I understand that Johann is the ultimate victim, his mind was somehow just so. He was able to experience kinderheim and come out on top somehow.
This anime pulls no punches. Ideals shattered. The most beautiful thing in the world is your mind can bend in a new direction. Great content!!!!
You must've aced those essays in school 😮😮.
whad do ya meann
@@vimalcurio this video is a video-essay.
@@nv_johan8711 omg just leave me alone I don't even remember why did I ask that.
One of my favourite manga and anime. I really dug the duality of Kenzo and Johan which is why I love the conclusion so much. Good video mate.
TheAutistWhisperer I keep seeing you everywhere lol.
Fran Madaraki Ah a fellow Fran fan, you're a person of culture. Lol yeah, I do get around.
Thanks.
I don't care what anyone says, you are the best at analyzing anime series and characters.
That's too kind of you, thanks so much.
It kinda reminds of the 'The Nameless Monster' picture book. Remember that the nameless monster used to be one entity, it later split up into two entities. Opposites of one another, one believes that it needs a name to be happy, and the other believes that it should just accept it's nature as a 'nameless monster' and that it can be happy without a name. At the end of the story the two meet up in 'the landscape of the end'. Just like Johan and Tenma near the end when for a second you saw them both of the landscape. What a masterpiece, to think a human could create something so brilliant.
Monster is one of those shows that I’ve first watched when I was young but still managed to hold up to this day regardless. And I would even credit it for planting early seeds for some of the themes that I would repeatedly find myself captivated by the most.
This is why I appreciate your channel so much - you consistently manage to demonstrate that deriving a broader message from a medium that you draw entertainment from can go hand in hand.
*This is why I appreciate your channel so much - you consistently manage to demonstrate that deriving a broader message from a medium that you draw entertainment from can go hand in hand.*
That's brilliant to hear, thank you.
Such an underrated series, everyone should give it a go once.
You took it to another level with this one. "Monster" is one of my favorite anime, and I'm grateful to you for putting thoughts and feelings I've had about the show, into actual words and philosophical concepts.
Thanks, very happy that you enjoyed.
It's hard to stay on the path of Light when the Darkness provides strength through agency. People are always looking for "certainly" in life. To show their life had meaning cause it was deemed "right" in their eyes.
Also long as humanity looks at abstract concepts in philosophies through binary understanding, we will always reflect each other as mirrors.
For Light and Darkness are just truths based on humanity's fragile understanding of the phenomenon known as reality(or the "real").
Tenma reminds me so much of Kirtsugu from Fate/Zero and the battle between Shirou and Archer in UBWs.
Amazing video m8!
I have to agree.
Also, a better question I have to ask is, what do light and dark mean to the individual? We all interpret concepts differently. And sometimes it's better that we examine what is dark and light. What do them mean to an individual?
To me, in my own subjective opinion, Zamusa's teacher in DBS said it best, "evil is necessary in order to inform the good".
(And sometimes, the "light" can be just as evil too within it's bliss.)
The difference between The Batman and The Joker is that Batman cares, and The Joker doesn't.
The difference between Johan and Tenma is that Johan doesn't care, but Tenma does.
It's often that small difference that divides hero from villain.
Johan could have talked the alcoholic officer into being a better person, if he cared. Tenma cared about an unknown child, and saved a killer.
Good triumphs when it never gives up for so long that evil can't win, can't go on, or takes the hand offered to find a better life.
The hard part is sometimes finding what will truly do good, instead of just feeling good.
Johan doesn't care but Johan does XD
Nameless Monster Dammit!
I can't even blame autocorrect for that one, because that was my fault.
It is now edited and corrected. :P
Johan was terrifying for me because he was ruthless to all without discrimination even to children. And the fact that his face and voice seemed incredibly kind and when he cried you could see how sad he was. It was all so unsettling and terrifying. We didn't see him murdering people much often directly instead he had this incredible ability to push people to death just with his words. I felt scared for any normal person in his premise.
And for Tenma it was the absolute opposite. He helped all without discrimination and throughout the series I saw people getting really frustrated that after he had gone to such great lengths to hunt down Johan he just couldn't shoot him when he came across him and I understand how it could be frustrating but it was pretty obvious from the beginning that Tenma's character was symbolic of all the goodness in humanity and he wouldn't really kill anyone. I would have been shocked instead if he was the one who shot Johan.
I need to watch Monster again. For the. . .8th or so time.
This anime is criminally underrated, it is honestly disgusting how much so.
Keep it under the radar fucktard fanboys ruin everything
@@Anubis-xk4ht 😂😂😂😂
As a person who has dealt with clinical depression for over 3 years starting at the age of 19, Tenma's view is something really relatable to me, and you did an amazing job fleshing it out. Being open-minded is something I took away from watching this video, thanks AJ!
Thanks very much for watching pal!
Your videos are always so insightful and well spoken..it's always a delight to view a new one.
This is one of the best video analysis i have ever seen... You are brilliant! It really felt like you were describing me in some places. Monster is one kind of a story. Pure brilliance. :)
Thank you!
Yay! A monster video and an alexandxr video all in one again!
The Anime Dude well said my dude.
^_^
Finally my hunger for a Monster video has been satisfied. Thank you Aleczandxr
(On my 4th rewatch ^_^)
Another great video . I really like your analysis / exploration of the nihilistic theme in this video charismatic of one of Johan's ideals , something which was not covered in much detail in your previous video about Monster (as that focused on identity and human nature commentary aspect). For Johan though , I do feel that atleast in the Monster anime, he NEVER waivered in his own outlook and the only person he felt worthy enough to prove/show that to was Tenma, contrary to the highly contemplative behavior of Tenma.
My personal philosophy is the only flawless and correct one I'll have you know! (Also when I saw the title I thought of Hyori ittai ending theme)
monster and hxh2011 are in my top 3 fav anime.
Condor 1. Monster 2. Codegeass 3. Hxh2011
Thank you for this video AJ! The part about Tenma being comfortable alone in a crowd while being terrified of living in alone in this world resonates so much with me that it helped me understand myself in a way. So I'm grateful to you for that.
My pleasure!
For people who thinks that Johan didn't has any feelings:
In the Manga he was shocked when Anna said "I forgive you" to him ... he wanted to hear that from her when he offered that she should kill him when they where 9 years old.. but in the anime they -idk why- didn't put that very significant scene... and before that in episode 73 in the house where their was portraits of him and Anna he was crying ...
Though he believed in nihilism.. he was in a huge deep pain that he planed (a perfect suicide) thinking that that is the only way for Anna to live happily (to erase the past including erasing himself from her life) ... probably because Anna is the only one he has deep attachment to and truly love
Man, anytime you post a video (especially a character analysis), I want to write paragraphs upon paragraphs expressing my gratitude to you. You see, I've always wanted to write stories that get people thinking but I never mustered the nerve. But then I found your channel, and every time I watch a video of yours it inspires me that I can do it. So thank you so much.
I'm glad to help in my own little way, that's wonderful to hear and thanks so much for letting me know.
Aleczandxr Actually, now that I think of it! Is it possible to leave a list of recommended readings in the description based on the ideals you discuss? I'd love to read more into this kind of stuff.
exactly 1 Year later after finding your channel i’m revisiting your videos on monster and i didn’t even realize you put out a new one
Back again with that Monster greatness!
I really like how Johan portrays Nihilism so well.
My personal favorite show. Glad to hear what u have to say about this topic
Ah yes another monster analysis video from you Im honestly so glad you still review and pick apart old anime I feel that so many people forget that old anime was the pinnacle of psychological horrors and honestly pulled on heart strings you thought you never even had. There was such a weird feeling of emptiness the show left me that I loved at the same time. Thank you for putting me on to a lot of great gems of anime I can’t wait to see your channel grow as anime becomes more popular and people seek out more anime based content on TH-cam. You never disappoint
Thank you!
This analysis is so perfect. I always come back to this video once in a while
Thank you!
I'm surprised Radiant Historia fits so well with this video. As usual great video the message of the video was delivered excellently.
Thank you!
Aleczandxr Your welcome.
"People don't have ideas, ideas have people.'' - Carl Jung
I never clicked in a video so fast before hehe
But really, I can't explain how happy i am to see another Monster video in your fantastic channel Aleczandxr, thank you so much for bring such good content to us! ;)
Thanks for watching! :)
Only questioning his faith allowed him to affirm it
The thing with Monster is that its too real and not like other anime over the top
I can see someone in real life do smth that Johan did
Johan Liebert the best villian not just in anime but in fiction
No because Johan intelligence is beyond human.
HunterKage Joestar not really
Johan can turn a normal people into killer with 20 minutes of talking, that's unrealistic. Not saying it's bad writing. Johan is a monster
HunterKage Joestar that doesn't have anything to do with intelligence. He is simply extremely charismatic like many cult leaders in real life.
OK, well than his charisma is beyond human
The fact that everything in monster is realistic besides Johan makes Johan more unsettling and a better villain
It's amazing you used Mechanical Kingdom from Radiant Historia for the intro music. You nailed it perfectly......
Thanks!
Always here for your videos bro one of my fave youtubers and the only one who's entire content collection I watched
Thanks so much for the support dude, means the world.
Aleczandxr thanks for the quality content
I LITERALLY just subscribed and turned on notification after discovering you and after I saw your hunterxhunter videos. Now you upload. Holy shit I am lucky
Monster is one of my favorite stories of all time, not just anime! Great video as always man! Keep up the great work!
Thanks!
Here's my theory on this masterpiece
Urasawa has used biblical figures often in this story. Some of them which I was able to found out through other people's analysis I came across are given below.
1) Johan Giving an Apple to schruward who was then able to SEE the bright view of the nature is a biblical metaphor for a tale in old testament where the devil himself tempts Eve to eat the apple which will enable her to become god herself and she will be able to SEE everything.
2) Johan being the anti christ and Tenma being the Christ himself. Jesus was a healer and Tenma is a doctor.
3) Ruhenheim is a biblical reference as well. Check the tale of Jonah and Nivenah. (I'm actually forgetting as its been a long time)
4) In Revelation 16:13 King James version it's stated:
"And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast and out of the mouth of the false prophet"
(Johan being the false prophet I guess as he is a literal anti Christ)
So My theory is this that Urasawa is hiding many things via these meticulous symbolism and biblical references. The actual answer to many of our questions are dug deep into them and in order to find out more we have to have the knowledge of bible.
BUT that's a tough task. Its almost impossible coz who knows how much bible references are there in this story.
So he has used a very meticulous narrative through which he has left some unfilled spots at many points on this story leaving room for interpretation. There can be endless possibilities and endless layers which can fill those spots.
Its like the story wants to say
"Everything and yet nothing"
It feels as if I'm uttering some nonsense but actually this kinda align perfectly with Johan's character.
Johan believed in the superiority of knowledge. If you have the memories (knowledge) of the person you can become that person. This was hinted at many places(the narrative I talked about earlier)
When Grimmer heard the tape of Johan, In there on being asked the name, Johan utters many names and considers them as his own personality.(the nameless monster)
But Johan himself doesn't know his own identity.Thus proving my point
"Everything and nothing"
Johan being the literal embodiment of this.
beautiful analysis
Loved this analysis. Such a thoughtful commentary. Keep up the good work.
Don't know why I wasn't notified of this video, however, two new videos from you within the space of a week was a real treat. The more videos you make on Monster the more I appreciate it. Fantastic work as always.
Thanks mate!
Brilliant analysis as usual! As someone who has followed you for a while, I definitely wanted to get to Monster at some point since I'd heard how great it was from many people and also saw that you rated is among your favorite works in the medium. At last, I finally got to it over the last few weeks, and just finished it today! What a ride! I do think the story as a whole has its flaws in terms of plot conveniences and some unbalanced pacing, but from a thematic point of view I really can appreciate what it was doing, as you clearly do (and I also think from a characterization outlook it is also top tier for the most part, I was surprised at how many side characters I grew attached to, like Lunge, Eva, Richard, Reichwein, Martin and Grimmer). Definitely worthwhile overall as a story, brilliantly unique and evocative of a different kind of anime storytelling style with its more deliberate speed and realism, reminiscent of older works from the 90s and early 2000s historically speaking).
I think the comparison in this video is fascinating in many ways, and thematically brings the dichotomy of love and nihilism, and the interpretations of meaning and its creation and expression to the fore through utilizing these two main characters as reflective protagonist and antagonist. Like you said, both represent surprisingly similar sides to each other in many ways, but end up utilizing their abstract understanding of the world and human contact antithetically despite a surprisingly similar approach. I think the point on how framing and subjective valuation is of particular importance in that sense, from a philosophical perspective.
As a more practical point, I think an additional dimension that could be added to your already substantive analysis would be looking at, and contrasting, HOW Tenma and Johan used their connections to others throughout the narrative, and the means by which it intertwined with the larger thematic points on offer in Monster. Tenma was a brilliant neurosurgeon who was repeatedly willing to put others before himself and help as many people as possible, despite eschewing personal connection much of the time. He bred loyalty and love from others, but constantly pushed them away while he was on his harrowing quest to hunt down and end Johan, because he was never willing to use others to further what he saw as a morally horrible journey and act. He was instead willing to be used, to aid and adhere to his principles as a doctor even when it was not pragmatic and did not further his goal. We see this repeatedly in many of the shorter "arcs" or standalone stories in single episodes across the entire tale.
Johan, conversely, actively utilized his charisma and connection to others, especially those who had been at Kinderheim 511 with him and suffered the same memory tampering he did, to use them as tools to further his ultimate aims (Roberto being the prime example, but far from the only one). Unlike Tenma, he lacked any genuine empathy or love of life, but he was effective in simulating care to further his control towards the end he sought, which was naturally one devoid of love, finding meaning only in death and the nihilistic urges of the "landscape of the end," the culmination of his philosophical vision. This ties in with the larger theme of identity which you cover in your other video on Monster, along with the main themes of human nature inherent in the story as well. Tenma sought the positives of identity and meaning, connecting with others without using them, instead willing to be used to foster true human connection through love. Johan used others as tools, displaying cruel kinds of psychological control and reveling in meaninglessness to rid the world of others, of identity, of self. As you say, he represented that abyssal hopelessness that Tenma could never relate to, despite their theoretical similarities and the fact that Tenma still came so close to accepting the monstrous side of humanity in the final arc at Ruhenheim.
The narrative quality of Johan's own desire to erase all those connected to him, to truly become a fiction, metanarratively ties to these themes of identity too, especially in relation to the truly awesome framing device the story produces with Bonaparta's picture books and the "Monster without a Name" in particular, but that is a post and analysis for another time, I'd say! As usual, well done with the video, and I look forward to watching the rest of your work on Monster, as I did with your other takes on stories like Fate/Zero, Steins;Gate, HunterxHunter etc. Keep up the great work!
PS: Since you love both HxH and Monster so much, if you haven't already, you should do a video on how to effectively use motifs and concepts in a story, and focus on the motif of having and how it ties to identity! The Chimera Ant arc has this thematic thrust (with Meruem), and so too does Monster (with Johan), as we clearly see at the end. Both stories also allude to it more subtly initially, and really build it up as a real tension point beyond just the abstract level, but as part of actual core plot points! I think it could really be an enjoyable and stimulating project intellectually. Just food for thought!
Wow, thanks for this mate! It's so extensive that I'm gonna bookmark it and come back to it later for when I have more time to properly digest it (like I've done before with a couple of your comments, haha) but I just wanted to show my appreciation and I'm glad that you enjoyed the video and more importantly, that you enjoyed Monster. In terms of the HxH/Monster comparison video topic - I think it's a great idea, but personally I actually feel as if I've said all I really wanted to in video format for Monster. I've made four videos and I'm relatively happy with three of them, and all in all I just don't have too much else to say and I feel like doing more on the story would be forcing it out. It's definitely a great idea, just at the moment I think I want to move on from Monster content, if that makes sense? Maybe it'll change in the future though, who knows!
@@Aleczandxr Thanks for the response dude, I appreciate that you're willing to even take the time to bookmark my comments and read them, especially from an older video of yours! Discourse with you through these comments is always enjoyable!
I think it's perfectly understandable to not try and force content if you don't feel like it, that makes sense and I definitely respect that sentiment. I look forward to watching the other couple of Monster videos you've put up (I believe I saw one on Lunge and Eva and one on Grimmer), that should satiate me for now. Keep up the great work and all the best!
Wow! I first watched Monster a couple of years ago, and I started rewatching it just a few days ago! Excellent timing for an excellent analysis! While rewatching, I've been paying close attention to the parallels between characters. It's amusing to note that most of the important characters are highly intelligent workaholics (plus one alcoholic) that have either family troubles or no mention of family.
Thanks!
Ah! I had commented on another of your videos hoping you'd analyze Monster and lo and behold, you have created so many - and such impressive ones at that! My goodness, astounding work and analysis, especially of the comparison of Johan and Dr. Tenma. I really enjoyed this, one because I've been really hoping to find more Monster content, but especially your exploration of ideology and contrasting moral perspectives. I honestly agree, I wish more series were willing to engage with ideals and even religion, because it makes for more fascinating, satisfying, and more well-rounded content. I gained a new appreciation for Tenma and Johan, as it was insightful to see more clearly how they are more similar than it initially appears. And I think Tenma's tragic moral struggle is exactly what endears him and this story to me and so many others who discover it. Marvelous work and treatment of the content, wonderful!
Lol, I literally just responded to that with a link to this. Just ignore my comment there. I’m delighted you found this and enjoyed, thanks very much for the kind words of support. I really appreciate it :)
I'm so glad! Oh and it's encouraging to see such a quick response and to know that you're active :) By the way, do you have any upcoming series or projects you're working on? I can't wait to see what else you produce!
Yep. I’m always working on new stuff!
Im watching this show right now and it is so good, characters are good and i love how each episode
So glad you made another video on this masterpiece. Hoping for an analysis on grimmer when you can
Don't expect an analysis on Grimmer, I don't plan on doing one.
Aleczandxr Too bad, but thanks for telling me. It’s more than I can expect from most. I’m sure whatever you have planned is worthwhile
I love your videos about Monster! Make a video analyzing Another Monster, pleeease!!
Glad you like them, but I won't be making any more. Sorry!
@@pruthvirajchaudhari7653 why its shame?????
where did u find another monster by the way can you please give me the link here thank you
love the ideas of this channel! we're kinda same in prospective so I always watch your videos, the way you explain the characters the contrast between them and their similarities, I just love the way on how you do it man,
Glad to hear it!
Thank you so much for tackling such important questions and intricacies. This video is incredibly relevant not only to each Monster lover, but to each human being first and foremost. Props for putting up a detailed and compelling video brimming with quality :)
Thanks for watching! :)
Especially in this day and age, ignoring the politics, i'm referring to the age of the internet. We live in one of the most peaceful eras in human history, after 2 world wars special organizations, laws and agreements were made to ensure we don't regress into large scale conflict. It's by no means perfect but whats left is for people to disagree with words and on the internet you can be exposed to the opinions of literally anyone with a wifi connection. That aspect is simultaneously humbling as it is hilarious to me, but for all the darkness it can bring up in people, it's important if you want to inflict your opinions on the world, that you take a few hits yourself. For this reason Monster will remain a classic with a true lesson.
Very good video btw and nice shout out to Mr. Cynical's video, i just watched his Monster vid not too long ago so i had a bit of the frequency effect (if you can call it that) spook me with this in my notification.
Thanks very much, and thanks for sharing this.
I love a good monster video
It almost make me mad how this simple anime with no supernatural elements manage to have the most compelling ideological conflict ever. Johan's morality contrast Tenma's morality in such a perfect way.
"Everybody deserves the chance to live equally" vs "The only chance that comes for everybody equally is death"
Except Temma's ideology fall within 2 second of inspection while Johan is right. Death is unbiased and just. It comes for everyone no matter how rich or poor they are
^ No, you’re fundamentally misrepresenting Tenma. Tenma’s ideals don’t oppose the idea that everyone dies indiscriminately, so a simple stating of that fact isn’t a rebuttal at all.
you can also highlight the parallel between tenma's and johan respective beliefs through their interaction with one of the kid that, after talking to johan and being communicated johan's nihilistic view on life, was on the verge of killing himself. Johan's philosophy that he communicated to that kid was that everything was meaningless and life was only a pendulum moving between boredom and suffering in an endless cycle, but tenma then stopped the kid from killing himself and taught him that despite life being as painful and tough as it is, life is life and it's everything that you'll ever get, and that there are things like friends, or moments of peace, joy, or just simply love that singlehandedly and despite all the hardships make life worth living and fight for (one of many of nietzsche's ideas that were illustraded throughout the manga)
RIght, but Grimmer was quite a bit more important to that kid no killing himself than Tenma.
Woohoo! I've been waiting so long for you to talk about Monster!!!😁
You articulate excellently how powerful this show truly is. Its themes are NOT obvious. But you see all of their parallels and implications. You see how these stories offer clarity to individuals undertaking the journey that is life. You also possess an exceptional understanding of the human condition. I would suggest writing a story of your own and would not be surprised if it was more powerful than Monster.
I don't have the means or desire to write a story of my own, but I appreciate the compliment!
@@Aleczandxr If the day ever comes, know you have the ability :)
Amazing video, congrats for the analysis
Thanks.
Still not over Grimmer's death
Damn, I love this page, your insights are profound.
The Aleczandxr OVAs are a treat.
This video had some great info that really makes me think more about the world and the anime Monster. I can't wait to check out Monster. Thanks for the video !
Thanks for watching!
Somehow i knew you were gonna make a vid on Monster eventually. Its one of my favs and i love this vid. Keep it up
Thanks! I've made two other videos on it already though.
I'll check those out later
One of my favorite anime, I’m hyped for this.
MONSTER is love MONSTER is life
7:49 a really good point!
YAY!!!!! You're back! Missed you very much! Keep up the great work!
Thanks! Glad to be back.
Love you and your analysis. Monster is my favourite anime series of all times and I've been hoping that this would happen. Please keep making great content!
Thanks a lot, I've been wanting to do another video on Monster since my last one was in late 2016 and it's been a hell of a while. I'll do my best!
Aleczandxr thank YOU for what you do, i wish you all the luck in the world for your channel.
Is it weird that I'm not into that many anime, but I absolutely *love* this channel?
A bit, yeah, but that's awesome :)
Two videos in two days? What did we do to deserve this pleasure!
Great video man, their idealistic battle is definitely one of my favorites in fiction 💯
Thanks!
My only issue is: if the drunk father didn't show up, would Tenma have shot Johan? We don't know, and this is what's in the way of your interpretation. If Tenma did not kill Johan, Johan would have shot Wim. There are times when our inner monster needs to come out to protect ourselves or others, Magnificent Steiner after all saved lives while killing others. Does it mean Johan's nihilism is correct? I don't think so. Even if Tenma shot Johan or refused to save him, Tenma would still be a good man. I feel like the drunk father was a plot convenience.
Maybe. Tenma would've lost Wim or give in to the demand of the moment and shoot Johan. This is a rather wishful thinking now here, but what would've happened had Tenma aimed for Johan's wrist or arms and then tackle him? That would be a very pre-vacation Lunge thing to do but just maybe. After some time exploring different aspects of MONSTER, it seems preety clear that many plot conveniences were used. Be it the drunk dad or the flaw in Detective Lunge or the story would run in a dead end.
Thank you once again Alecxzandxr
Thank you for watching.
Some of your finest analysis, good job my man.
Many thanks dude.
Well done, simply well done.
Another character duality you might find interesting is the connection and conflict between Amuro and Char from Mobile Suit Gundam.
Thanks. And maybe, but I haven’t seen any Gundam.
Aleczandxr
The Gundam that show this duality is the original Mobile Suit Gundam, Gundam Zeta, and Char’s Counterattack.
Excellent analysis, loved this video!
Thank you!
monster is one of the best animes out there. life changing!
I love Monster with a passion. It's my favorite anime and manga.
Thank you for cutting to the chase and actually talking about the subject instead of going on about nothing for 2 minutes.
I was hoping that you would cover this at some point. Picked up 2 volumes in a thrift store and I love the series so far.
This video is amazing and I really wished this would get more views.
However, if you would pardon me, may I make my own request for a video on one of the key characters of the series, one whose influence in the narratives makes him the key element driving much of the mystery, Franz Bonaparta. The man was pretty much responsible for how the story came to be. Maybe a look into how his books and experiments reflect those points of humanity your other videos have mentioned. And maybe this can connect with exactly what made Johan the monster that he was, through the choice his mother made.
Thanks so much. Unfortunately though I probably won't make any more videos on Monster, very sorry about that.
Johan just wants a hug