Berserk Analysis - Why Corkus Matters

Berserk Analysis - Why Corkus Matters
I hate Corkus.
And I know for a fact that I am not the only Berserk fan who thinks that. From the first time he appeared, to all the way to his death, he was a straight up asshole.
He is such an easy-to-hate character, and that is the whole intention behind him. He is supposed to be hated and disliked by the reader.
However, having said all that, even though I among many fans hate him, I still appreciate his placement in the story with what he represents and symbolises.
If you remember, Corkus was actually the first band member to initiate some type of action towards guts. After guts had killed bazuso, corkus, along with a few others, launched an attack on him to steal his money.
It was this small conflict which caused guts to attack back, which further led Casca to come attack him as well and this all eventually led him to finally meet Griffith for the first time.
So if corkus never attacked guts in the way he did, the Berserk world could look very different. However that is not the main point I'm trying to express in this video.

[@joehill4094]

Is it really fair to call him a Coward for running from things that could rip him apart in mere seconds?

[@ratedr7845]

Yes

[@asneakylawngnome5792]

Corkus, multiple times in other battles, always wanted to flee when things got tough.

[@FatMonkeySexMonkey]

@dirtyvarmint Actions are stronger than words

[@env0x]

compared to guts he is

[@edwardgaines6561]

@@asneakylawngnome5792 Not only that, but when Corkus is getting a kill in, it's because he's ganging up with other Hawks on one person. Just like when Corkus told Dan & Earl to kill a young Guts!

[@sirfijoe450]

I never really disliked Corkus. He just seems like a pessimistic every-man. Also great video. It will blow up for sure.

[@raulconty7229]

I feel the same way

[@Balinux]

Agreed. His conversations had meaning, even if it wasn't the best.

[@seththesupernaut5503]

Same, every time he pops up though I'm like "fuuuuucking Corkus.

[@juiceboxbzrk]

You'll go far if your default is to not humor assholes

[@rowanturnbull6576]

i felt the same. Corkus is the regular guy who you saw as and he knew himself to be one who could never be like gutz or griffith, someone outstanding. in this, he is the bitter underachiever. I recognized this and couldnt hate him for it - not everone can be the hero no matter how much you want it.

[@natediaz1863]

I never really hated Corkus. I mean its pretty understandable why he is the way he is. And I always found his antagonism towards Guts pretty amusing, especially cause Guts never reacted to him in anger (even when he tried to kill him lol). Guts was the only thing that actually pissed Corkus off, every other time you see him he's either being a smartass or in despair. It always kind of surprised me that while Corkus is a coward he had the balls to antagonize the most dangerous person around at every given chance. And I kind of liked him for that.

[@edwardgaines6561]

It's actually pretty sad that the only time Guts and Corkus interact in a conversation is before he leaves, and even then it's mostly just Corkus ranting. It's like they had just one chance to connect, and then BOOM here comes the Eclipse.

[@elliotaddler2302]

Guts never had a problem with Corkus. I think that Corkus never forgave guts for maiming and killing his men.

[@genghiskhan7691]

The ironic thing is that Guts avenged him in the first few panels of the Black Swordsman arc.

[@mangoe9523]

@@genghiskhan7691 after fucking the demon 2...... i knew it was the apostle who killed corkus but maybe guts wanted to pay homage

[@izukumidoriyaisssss3049]

Yeah

[@erickjoestar1561]

>try to steal some kid's money >cause the eclipse What a twist

[@MapleMilk]

Holy shit Fucking CORKUS is why Berserk happened I guess he did matter. More than alot of other characters, in fact

[@erickjoestar1561]

@@MapleMilk I know right? That's the most unexpected twist ever

[@lordhumongous644]

I think it's worth pointing out that after the band of the Falcons were exiled and branded traitors to the kingdom, their leader imprisoned and scores of their surviving men had defected, Corkus remained with the band of the Falcon even when there was seemingly nothing in it for him and it could potentially get him killed. I think that speaks a lot about his character; even though he was a jealous insecure asshole, he was loyal to his comrades to the end. RIP Kentaro Miura.

[@johnyuyu5953]

I like him, he represent a common person , a reality

[@edwardgaines6561]

Corkus = Krillin???

[@wesleyfilms]

He’s the common man that want to be exceptional, but deep down, knows he can’t be. So when he sees Guts get put into the same position as him, then defy Griffith and just walk away, I think that just made him more bitter. That’s why I like Corkus, other than the fact that he’s kinda goofy.

[@DemonicRemption]

@上帝是部電腦 John yu yu Crap, no wonder I hated Corkus... He represented an aspect of reality that I was watching Berserk to escape from.

[@johnyuyu5953]

@@DemonicRemption Well... even a manga need to show a bit of reality, there is no total escape

[@MRGUSTAVOCHICKENFRING]

@@DemonicRemption ding ding ding fantasist always hate the more 'normal' characters. Reminds them a little too much of themselves.

[@MarztheStoic]

Before I watch the video I would like to say that there was a Reddit post about Corkus that kind of opened up his character. Genuinely Corkus is a very unlikable character but he serves as the realistic pursuit of the everyman while Guts is the outlier. Corkus is simply trying to find comfort while Guts was a truly unusual being. Always throwing himself into the fray, always seeking to be a head in battle always contemplating his existence while Corkus only works to seek pleasures that would comfort him. He was realistically the rationale compared to Guts because Guts went from battle field to battle field with no purpose but to kill with no true purpose to it at all while Corkus' only objective was to do what was necessary to build security and enough wealth to one day to live a comfortable lifestyle as a noble. As we get older a lot of those things make sense but at the same time you should seek the value of your own soul not just comfort. If Berserk left me with anything It is to "know your depths so you know where you can find true strength. Not simply might of arm but strength of mind, character and will. Because life will test you endlessly and we all have our own dragons to face and even if we have to fight we must face it courageously. Because our soul's depends on it."

[@edwardgaines6561]

Nice points! That would explain, rather than facing his impending death, Corkus finds "comfort" in the breasts of a monster he can't see. Meanwhile Guts is facing his doom head-on in the Eclipse!

[@MarztheStoic]

@@edwardgaines6561 yup, exactly.

[@dagtheking5739]

@@MarztheStoic Also Guts kills the same apostle that killed Corkus.

[@sv32099]

Yeah Corkus just reminded me of what I'd imagine an everyman in this type of world to be like. Cowardly, obsessively clinging to status, wealth, and power, and more just looking to find some comfort for the night instead of feeding his soul

[@edwardgaines6561]

Let me also say, after Miura's passing, your post takes on new gravity. Feed that soul!

[@HerMi.T]

one thing i also want to point that corkus is the only one who completely has the devotion on Griffith. Corkus’ view of Griffith was absolute: Griffith is the untouchable, the epitome of a kind of god given talent and fortune. While all members of the Falcons shared this view, Corkus is second only to Casca when it comes to worshiping Griffith. For him, even considering being an equal to Griffith was ludicrous and so being enveloped in Griffith’s dream was a prestige enough. Like all members of the Falcons, he defined himself through his association with Griffith and was content in riding his coattails to the top. As such, Corkus is the best example of the Bonfire of Dreams mentality that virtually members of the Band of Falcons had. They all lacked either the strength of character (Corkus) or ambition (Judeau) or vision (Casca) or charisma (Pippin) or self-determination (pre-departure Guts) to achieve their own dreams and so latched on to someone who embodied all the missing qualities that they perceived to be holding them back. Corkus’ tragic flaw was that, much like Jesse Pinkman from , he was a leader who settled for being a follower. In contrast, Guts starts off as a follower who becomes, if not a leader, then at least his own man. He was willing to step off Griffith’s coattails and carve out his own path. This was the main point of contention between the two men as far as character arcs go.

[@PeteTheGrouch]

Well said.

[@ashleywilkonson386]

Corkus? More like Dorkus!

[@MRGUSTAVOCHICKENFRING]

I've notice corkus really flys over heads. His whole thing was trying to get Guts to appreciate the things he had. That is point corkus is trying to make whenever he'd snap at guts in the later parts of the story. The reason why guts never goes back and back with him because he know exactly where he's coming from. Corkus (and Casca) saw Guts as a bloodthirsty brooding brute who sort of stumbled his way into group and leave when the fighting is over. Corkus is the well-developed, jaded, world-weary, everyman character meant to remind you how harsh things are everyone in the band was a child solider bandit, orphan, etc. pretty sure that's why he's drawing to look older, despite of course being the same age as the other characters. Great character that flys over heads because he doesn't chew nails for breakfast or play 4d chess or whatever.

[@viridianacortes9642]

Spot on my dude. This in itself could be its own video. I’d watch it.

[@PeteTheGrouch]

Tbh, I always found Corkus more amusing than anything... he's the classic blaggart type character; someone who talks a big game, but deep down inside is all too aware of his failings & shortcomings. In a way, you could almost pity him, rather than outright hate him... heck, I actually remember feeling kinda bad for him when he- ...well, y'know!

[@ComeInAlone00000]

never really understood why the band hated guts early on in this series. They tried to rob and kill him. then forced him to fight beside them and basically carry the whole team. Especially Casca, she was totally prepared to rob and kill him just like Corkus.

[@srslydoatm9251]

They were in their feelings that he killed their members despite that fact, not to mention Guts having a standoffish nature anyways. And then you already know what Casca's deal was with him...

[@edwardgaines6561]

@@srslydoatm9251 It's funny how Rickert, in a thought bubble, even says in response to Corkus that "You guys attacked him first." I like how Rickert always highlights what everyone else is feeling, but won't say out loud. Typical though, since most kids have no filter.

[@suleymanbabak1973]

because they had a strong pack-like mentality and to them Guts was the outsider. They only accepted him when the pack leader accepted him and he started earning his keep. After that, only people like Corkus hated him, but that was just miserable jealousy.

[@Huey111]

Guts killed Corkus friend and The band of the Hawk were holding a fort until Bazuso was killed

[@maadtee6281]

Casca wasn't ready to rob or kill him he was ready to fight him after Griffith told her to she was angry he killed some of the hawks but she didn't attack until told to the band hated guts because he killed their friends

[@f0otsn1ffer90]

I didn’t notice this at first but the demon that kills Corkus is the same one that Guts is banging in the beginning of the manga, and both times it changes from a woman to the demon. Cool detail

[@faceless2302]

The slug count also makes two appearances, when he's killed in Black Swordsman and when he runs into Rickert on the eve of the eclipse

[@colbyjackcheeser]

@@faceless2302 the only other apostle that appeared in black swordsman was the snake apostle. He is shown in a panel walking through some trees and birds flying away

[@oscarbayton1118]

Rosine also appears before the eclipse.

[@ProLamberto]

@@faceless2302 three really, he reappears between many other apostles at the eclipse, I think he is the one that kills Pippin.

[@SuperOmegaBerserker]

Yes and in the manga the ones who attack rickert at the camp is the forest of lost children arc and then the fat priest slug from Midland, all 3 can also be seen in the eclipse.

[@A_Salted_Fishe]

I can see a lot of myself in Corkus. Aspects of myself I dislike intensely. _That's_ what makes him a great character - the fact that I am undoubtedly not alone in this.

[@StayClosedDelorean]

While not directly stated, I feel that a lot of Corkus' established attitude and insecurity in the GA arc can be traced as projections within Guts after The Eclipse, particularly during the earlier stages of his Black Swordsman persona. The way Guts downplays and belittles anything and everyone is very reminiscent of Corkus. You can tell that his inferiority complex resonated with Guts, especially after Guts himself was also submitted by Griffith in the most degrading manner possible. In a twisted way Guts is paying tribute to Corkus by embracing his defeatist and pessimistic outlook in life.

[@DammnDeejay]

I was actually never annoyed my Corkus. He had the attitude that was very much needed in the timeline of Berserk. I understood he character the moment he opened his mouth. Just his body language and attire spoke well before he did imo. He was a real person. He wanted what most people would want, and he didn’t mind doin what he had to do to get that. He was a nobody, like the rest of us. He spoke his mind and didn’t trust anyone outside of his group. A mindset I’m sure was very common amongst mercenaries in those times. His death was all to real. Next to my boy J, Corkus hit hard. Who else wouldn’t go insane and think at any moment they’re going to awaken from a bad dream? Mwah! I loved how he went out. Still clinging to the things he loves most. Boobs Edit: I also feel that Corkus is an unrealized Guts. Guts is what Corkus imagines himself as, maybe a little less dark, but you get my point. That maybe why Corkus was always an ass to Guts. Because he sees his true weaknesses in comparison. Until Guts, there was no one for him to project himself onto bc everyone was so different. But Guts was him seeing himself if he was anything close to what he thinks he is. Ouch I also have an inferiority complex to a degree. So maybe that’s why I understood Corkus so much. Except I don’t put people down and whatnot. That part isn’t necessary

[@edwardgaines6561]

So when Corkus is yelling "You can never become Griffith," he's really telling on himself! I'd like to think Guts ignored Corkus out of spite...but it might have been low-key pity.

[@dagogouranta5583]

It’s really respectable of you to admit that

[@navatheramenguy3127]

Corkus sounds like what happens when your protagonist doesn't have the protagonist EX trait Protagonist often get out of unrealistic situations just because they're protagonists, other characters don't get to do that, some are just normal

[@DammnDeejay]

@@navatheramenguy3127 lolol your description made me think of Matsuda from Death Note! And I agree! It’s an entirely different perspective if we look at their world form their POV

[@edwardgaines6561]

Thank you for the video. Corkus was basically a walking, grade-A example of "Projection." Couldn't stand how his life turned out, so he takes it out on others with potential.

[@Johnboi6969]

To me, Corkus represents us. Very few people can have the determination and mental toughness and durability as Guts. But everyone else is exactly what Corkus is; someone who constantly has something to prove but doesn’t put him/herself out there unless there is some outside source who can encourage this. Until there is some sort of materialistic reward or reassurance from the cruel adversity called life, there isn’t any true joy in what you want to accomplish. In fact, there is only pure jealousy and anger towards others because that’s the easy way to project these ill feelings

[@fightingmedialounge519]

Eh, depends on the person.

[@ericstaples7220]

Corkus gives everyone the pragmatic, realistic point of view. Which is essential. If everyone listened to Corkus more, they wouldn't have gotten into the trouble they did in the end.

[@vaca493]

Can you explain that? I don't really get how that could've helped

[@edwardgaines6561]

Nah, Corkus was deluded. He too had a chance to leave the Hawks after they were found guilty of treason, but he never left...even when he openly admitted the Hawks would never repeat their success to Rickert.

[@mrmoviemanic1]

I don't know if I would say Corkus was pragmatic, he pretty much was along for the ride and even in the end stayed with Casca and the Hawk when he very well could've gone out on his own. To me, he was more of a person that deep down had his pessimistic ways but always hoped for more.

[@bjornsmith9431]

Corkus is a good negative motivation for Guts to seek his own dreams.

[@alanstanton1814]

Yeah, I cant understand how people didnt see this, corkus was jelly that guts built himself up.

[@MRGUSTAVOCHICKENFRING]

hmm I've notice corkus really flys over heads. His whole thing was trying to get Guts to appreciate the things he had. That is point corkus is trying to make whenever he'd snap at guts in the later parts of the story. The reason why guts never goes back and back with him because he know exactly where he's coming from. Corkus (and Casca) saw Guts as a bloodthirsty brooding brute who sort of stumbled his way into group and that will leave when the fighting is over. Corkus is the well-developed, jaded, world-weary, everyman character meant to remind you how harsh things are everyone in the band was a child solider, bandit, orphan, etc. pretty sure that's why he's drawing to look older too, despite of course being the same age as the other characters. Great character that flys over heads because he doesn't chew nails for breakfast or play 4d chess or whatever. If all you see is a "jealous hater" you've kinda missed the point.

[@alanstanton1814]

@@MRGUSTAVOCHICKENFRING Guts had in him what corkus lost, as the old saying goes "you will never be a king"

[@MRGUSTAVOCHICKENFRING]

@@alanstanton1814 yes yes guts is special, why wouldn't he be? He's the main character. That's not the point. Corkus role in the story is to serve as the jaded everyman realist that "calls it how he sees it". He isn't really supposed to be some foil or rival to guts. He there to tell him to get over himself and appreciate the things he had and achieved with the band. Look beyond just killing people on the battlefield. That's really what Corkus character is meant to represent. It's not so much about being jealous. But Guts issue is an emotional/philosophical one not a material one. It's made loud and clear in the that he didn't care about all that. He's just fine sleeping under tree and eating bugs.

[@eteledeak7749]

the virgin corkus hater vs the chad corkus sympathiser

[@obi-wankenobi4337]

I'm the only guy who likes Corkus. The dude just fits me

[@g-manalias1505]

corkus hates Guts because he never truly submitted to griffith while the former did. orkus threw away his dream to share griffith's one and he sees in Guts what he could have been. Guts is the mirror that shows corkus, he is a loser!

[@eugeneflorence4355]

Probably the most sound argument showing that Corkus sucks. Even the way he dresses. When he was dressed up for the ball honoring the Hawks, Corkus wore a Turkey hat. Corkus was a scumbag that couldn't fight anyone without help.

[@KLWarlord]

Corkus is a great character. He has many layers that you can see if you simply look. I don't understand why some people dislike a character for things like they're a jerk or a bad person. It's all characterization. Corkus is as well written as any other character in Berserk, and he deserved better than he got. Also, Guts never fired back at Corkus because he knew what Corkus said wasn't untrue. Their moments together are very telling.

[@KLWarlord]

@Kara Paupus He's a good guy at heart, but can't admit to that aloud. When confronted by Rickert about why he stayed when others abandoned the Hawks, he just goes silent, which speaks louder than any words he could have said. And it's easy for someone to misunderstand Guts as this guy who thinks he's better because of his battle prowess mixed with that calm, philosopher's demeanor he took on after he decided to leave the band.

[@shaunoezkewl8271]

I like Corkus cause he calls Guts out, sometimes fairly sometimes unfairly. Guts is a great character because he's not a Gary Stu who is loved by everyone and always wins, if everyone loved him and he never lost he'd be boring to read about.

[@wedoliveinasocietydowenot]

Never really understood why I didn't hate Corkus while almost everyone else did, but man did this video explains my thoughts in ways I never could. Keep up the good work. :)

[@okplay9446]

Corkus represents herd mentality - he, too, had a dream, but unlike Guts, he gave up on it. Guts, on the other hand, is the lone wolf - the odd one out, the man, who dares question the established norms. This is why Corkus hates him, because Guts' continued existence opposes Corkus' beliefs, and suggests that he might be wrong.

[@Galvatronover]

@Kara Paupus this fear is never really confirmed as guts doesn’t really indanger the hawk

[@fightingmedialounge519]

​@@Galvatronover they didn't mean literally.

[@DammnDeejay]

And shout out to my boy Corkus for being the REAL matchmaker behind Guts and Casca. If it weren’t for him just being himself, something Griffith can’t even do mind you, then they would’ve never had a reason to meet. As Guts had to interest in joinin a band for long term nor would he have beef with Griffith cuz he was a human at the time. Shit..he didn’t even know Casca was a female until they fought. Damn..and to think, he was never even properly thanked 😏

[@scaccu]

never disliked him, in the end he always found a way to redeem himself.

[@jordangreene8125]

Corkus is annoying but I dont hate him he represents reality imo. Not everyone can be a Guts and Griffith and thats kinda what he represents. The reality of a normal person.

[@tannerbarnes7392]

I love Corkus. What a bastard

[@Poet482]

Corkus always reminded me of Walter from The Big Lebowski. I mean, Corkus's catchphrase is effectively, "Am I wrong?" And he never is. He's right all the time, but that doesn't excuse his cowardice and general nastiness. He's clearly supposed to be the "everyman" of the group. Rational, but with a nasty edge. Makes for great, and necessary insight. Even when he's insecure about something, he justifies it well by pointing out that they should simply be appreciative of Griffith and to be content with that. The Band of the Hawk would have felt considerably different without Corkus, and when I think of his character, I think of him as a punk with a purpose. Constantly insecure that the seemingly unreal heights he reached with the Hawks could just as easily slip right through his fingers... which is of course exactly what happens. He *did* have balls to tell Guts to his face that he aimed his bowgun at his back more than once. And I like how Guts just no-sells this, as he probably already knew, given their tension, and the fact that he did the same thing to Donovan.

[@jafuncle]

Never hated Corkus. Corkus is simply a character who sees Guts as he is in the world of Berserk, not as a protagonist of the story Berserk. Guts is a single-minded brute when he first joined the group. We love Guts because we've seen the story from his perspective, but for Corkus the protagonist is Griffith. Corkus is the only one who will say what Guts needs to hear to his face.

[@CherryBoySwag]

As much as I hated him, he still was a greatly written character and in the end he was loyal to the band of the hawk to his death

[@JoaoPedroFPerez]

I aprecciate Corkus, he's terribly human

[@env0x]

guts never hated corkus, in fact he smiled when he came back to the hawk and saw corkus sulking over by a tree. and when guts said "it's good that nothings changed" he smiled and looked over at corkus again. i think guts saw corkus as a comrade, and rather than taking his words as insults he was receptive and thought deeply about them as a way to ground himself as in: "it's just like you said, all i know how to do is swing this sword around". in a way corkus was good for guts because he helped validate who he knew he was (even if this wasn't corkus's intention, i think his harsh but brutally honest words helped give guts the push he needed to believe in himself). and made guts realize he was happy with who he was, even if others weren't... i dunno that's just the way i interpreted it.

[@kapslock8008]

Great video, I never really thought of corkus beyond an annoying side act until this point

[@navatheramenguy3127]

Corkus sounds like what happens when your protagonist the protagonist EX trait Protagonist often get out of unrealistic situations just because they're protagonists, other characters don't get to do that, some are just normal It's nice to have characters that represent this reality on Manga, like gentle criminal of mha

[@fightingmedialounge519]

Not really. He's far too pessimistic for a protagonist.

[@Ill-hardt]

I really wish the original band of the hawk members survived I would have loved to see a redemption ark with corkus like they come out of the eclipse and he follows guts and the rest on a journey a broken man then some other shit happens and he becomes some what of a badass or something idk I thought it would be cool as shit to see

[@jhonnythefox7903]

On the horse of the skullnight were enough space for 3

[@patrykskuba893]

Whaaat, how can you guys not like him?

[@Galvatronover]

Calm down

[@bandiriatraveler8343]

Never disliked Corkus. Probably one of my favorite Golden Age characters.

[@knight_lautrec_of_carim]

Corkus was one of the most relatable characters. Few of us have Griffith's cunning or Guts' strength and dermination but most of us would probably behave like Corkus did. Maybe not with his rhetoric and audacity but deep down we all know it's true.

[@bayumahendra1797]

he just want living in the best live, he really close to became noble and suddenly getting dragged into eclipse

[@murderc27]

I *already* knew why he mattered 🧐 *sips from small teacup like a snob.

[@thiswasem]

Just finished the Eclipse. I did not hate Corkus really I understand his reason and mindset. Berserk is growing on me and in fact I love what Miura did to Corkus as a character

[@mrmoviemanic1]

Corkus while a pain in the ass at times, to me, never felt like someone that would cheat you, he saw life like it was for the taking and got knocked back then gave up on his dream and settled. It's not wrong to do such a thing and had he lived I'm sure he would've realized this, but just like all in the Band of the Hawk, he became a pawn to play for the person he trusted the most.

[@misters6749]

And he’s back like a Rebound. Or Corkus to whine more about Guts.....🤦🏿 Either way it’s good to see you back with another work of art Spirit, hopefully Miura-dono will follow your example.🤞🏽🤞🏽

[@natesavage3576]

Corkus could smell this video coming with his massive nose

[@elkpants1280]

I think it’s notable that corkus is very obviously drawn to be an older man, probably the oldest man in the band of the hawk. It can be easily understood that with the life that he lived, he is a survivor, much like Guts, but as a dark reflection of what could have been. Corkus’ sword is broken on Guts and he despairs, Guts’ sword breaks on demon teeth and chooses to go for the next weakest thing, his own arm and continue to resist. Many many parallels between Corkus and Guts

[@JJusmi]

What a tsundere

[@mightytaco123]

I never hated him but i always disliked him in a way, but he was loyal to the end.

[@lp0pic]

Killed it, you brought it up straight to the point

[@JachymorDota]

Corkus was just a "real" person, in all that makes sense in that world. Someone who did anything he could to survive and reach a point of comfort and wealth. He did manage to attain rank under Griffith, after all, even though he lacked courage and exceptional strength. He was loyal though and able to keep up with the _seigh_ Purple Rhino Knights, so there is that. He might be the perfect middle manager of our time: Keeping that store branch up and running while maybe even beinh content with his place is in the hirarchy, as long as it is comfortable.

[@breadindividual7040]

Corkus is a real relatable character. I found his feelings of fear and envy to be relatable compared to the other members of the hawk that where more typical of protagonists, fearless and perfect. But Corkus wasn't scared to tell Guts he was wrong when Guts was truly acting childish and no one else would stand up to him (Guts whole reason for leaving the Band of the Hawk in the first place seemed completely outrageous to me). And then despite his nature CORKUS STAYS WITH THE BAND OF THE HAWK THROUGH ALL THEIR TROUBLES!!! People should at least respect him for that!!! He used to be a leader of a gang of thieves but left all that to follow Griffith. He could have easily left and started anew when Griffith was gone but Griffith was someone he really respected. SO MUCH SO HE STAYED WHEN SHIT GOT TUFF HE WAS A REAL ONE!!! I just honestly liked his character more and more as Berserk 1997 went on.

[@aeleuz]

Corkus is delightful to be hated, as you said, he was written for that purpose (on the surface) but he's statements, even filled with jealousy or hate towards Guts, always had some valid points. Despite everyone being "engulfed" by Griffith's dream, in the world of Berserk where we are used to see only pain and despair, a "nobody" (like basically everyone from the Band of the Hawk are) becoming Noble and having the opportunity to enjoy a good life is what most people would want or be satisfied, but maybe won't admit because it would sound not so virtuous. Corkus was important to "state the obvious". Also, we kind hate Corkus because he shows weakness that most of us would show in the world he lives and the situations he faces. We like to think we relate to Guts (just read the comments of anything that has Guts as a theme. A lot of guys saying they can relate to Guts, and his suffering, and his stoic way of living. I mean, come on, really?!), but the harsh truth is that you hardly find someone as strong as Guts or determined as Griffiths. Most of us are "Corkus" trying to be better. And we know it. And we hate it.

[@billyj.causeyvideoguy7361]

Ive always felt corkus was meant to represent the lingering doubt and fear of failure in Miura. A lot of what he says and does is similar to how people in the arts doubt themselves and want to kill your dreams.

[@joshjones9749]

Its criminal that Guts never ran his fade not ONE time after all that shit Corkus talked to him.

[@kermitthegaminghermit8736]

Very interesting take on the character. I always thought Corkus was a jerk. However, if it wasn't for his actions, Guts would never have met Caska and Griffith.

[@loneronin6813]

This video says it best. Every reason mentioned in this video sums up my exact thoughts on Corkus as a character. The best way I can describe my feelings towards him is this: I dislike him as a person, but I respect his character in regards to the role he fills and the complexities within him.

[@marcsannicolas4074]

I didnt watch the video I only clicked to say that getting 28k people to click on any video about corkus is an accomplishment.

[@crimsoncloud443]

Great analysis! Natural Hypertrophy also has a video on Corkus I would recommend

[@nyork2012]

Corkus is the most realistic character in Berserk

[@Infernaliya]

I don't think I've ever hated Corkus. To be able to make big dreams come true you need strong will, sharp mind, ambitions, charisma and hard work; not many people have at least few of these qualities, and even less have them all combined. Corkus was never one of them, so he found the way to get to his dreams as close as he could by joining to the one who was - Griffith. IMHO he asured himself it was good enough, that's why he despises Guts, who wanted more - to become someone who was actually worthy to stand next to Griffith. Corkus didn't see Griffith's qualities in Guts and considered his goal impossible, and maybe by that, in a way, Guts made him think less of his own accomplishments. I think that could be a reason why he was so astonished and frustrated in that scene in a bar. The more I think of it the more I feel sorry for him. Honestly, he may not be very likable, but to be relatable is more than enough for me. Also, I gotta give him a credit: he was never afraid of Guts and spoke what was on his mind. I respect that.

[@AlightBULLDOG]

Every time I watch a video analyzing the characters of berserk gives me a deeper understanding appreciation and respect for the characters and the masterpiece that is berserk.

[@jaodasilva7993]

He was like a fusion between Animal Mother from Full Metal Jacket and Tompa-San from HunterXHunter

[@rigobertosolorzano8568]

This is for all the Corkus-heads out there

[@BeeBN]

I don't know why but corkus is my favorite band of the hawk member, and to an extent it's even understandable why he'd dislike guts , he died like a giga chad too lmao. I've only watched the 1997 anime

[@sam_games0628]

plot twist: Corkus is was actually the original main character and after he died, Guts took in Corkus' will and became the main character

[@Ryy_Ricch]

Griffith: ayo guts Guts: yo Griffith: ok whilst ur apart of the gang, even if he gets on ur nerves, even if he tries to pick a fight with u don't kill corkus alright just walk it off Guts:*sigh* fineeeeee

[@nikolasubaric]

I've never disliked him

[@chrischavez8467]

Corkus was a jerk. But he was our jerk. :/

[@animallovers2068]

Ive alway liked the relationship with guts an corkus .l think he sees guts in a different light than the other band of the hawks, which brings more meaning to guts as a character, an makes us viewers have interest .i think corkus also belittles guts because corkus never really got to a status as high as griffith ,b ecause of this he regards only caska as high rank ,or worthy.also guts cut down 2 comrades of corkus in the band of the hawk making them steping stone an aside from slaying bazuso catching the attention of griffith .it seems as if most of the band of the hawk with exception of caska guts an wrecked soully relayed on griffith dreams

[@unitynofear7758]

It would've been interesting for Corkus to get a Behelit.

[@eugeneflorence4355]

I hate to disagree but it seems to me that the Behelit makes you more of what you are. I see Corkus as a petty coward. I'm sure most of the Apostles were the same way, I don't believe the world of Berserk could use another one.

[@chicx2099]

I didn’t like Corkus, but I was expecting him to try to kill Guts and end up dying. I just knew he would give a good reason to be killed. But he really didn’t deserve what he ultimately got.

[@RorytheRomulan]

I actually quite like Corkus. He finally got to have everything he ever wanted. Fame, wealth, women. He just stopped caring how because Griffith broke him. And Guts is throwing away all of that for something Corkus gave up on The 2nd reason he flips out on Guts is because Corkus wouldn't stand a chance if he tried to do the same. He comes off as a grounded if spiteful guy. I think a part of Corkus actually had some admiration for Guts deep down and liked having him around, even if he projected an attitude onto Guts that Guts didn't truly have. Plus Guts is OP, and frankly he needed somebody around to shit on him.

[@TheHotel12629]

People commented how corkus causes the eclipse.. even if he didn't rob him that day the band wouldve met guts in another battlefield. You cannot escape Causality !

[@oscardleon6976]

We all got a little or a lot of Corkus in us.

[@MOMO-qu2mq]

He's one of my top 5 characters in berserk. When I look back he's one of a kind. He made many good points for guts and everyone

[@c.galindo9639]

Amazing analysis and beautifully said. I understood that Corkus’s character was meant to be that but what I mainly hated about his character is that I seen so many people like that irl. Always masking or being ignorant or something in line with a character like Corkus. It makes me sick knowing how people are like that and it’s actually most people that are like that. Brilliant video and I loved every second of it

[@Casca1997Berserk]

True. The part I disliked the most about Corkus' character is knowing most people are like actually like that. At least with Corkus he was always outspoken with his disdain towards Guts, compared to most people attempt to hide it while pretending to be friends and family.

[@c.galindo9639]

@@Casca1997Berserk people like Corkus only pull that stuff when they know words don’t phase someone but if they have to be careful about their words then they hold their tongue. Also that’s why Corkus only verbally assaulted Guts and Guts did nothing to Corkus because Corkus was nothing to him, literally

[@rafaelr9266]

I think that if Griffith would have been absorbed by someone else's dream like Corkus, he would have turned the same way, tell me what you think guys

[@outsmokemasia1683]

Bro i even like corkus over Griffith fr and stands out to me he first tried to kill guts and never even tried again

[@DrDolan2000]

I don't hate the guy, personally

[@ParkerDavis]

Corkus is a grown up Eric from Dungeons and Dragons.

[@riverblack123]

Guts doesnt hate Corkus. In fact he somewhat respects him. This because deep down, Guts knows that Corkus is right about him.

[@fortniteballs57]

I wouldn't call him a coward, because he NEVER left the band, even when most were doing, when they were in their worst without Griffith. That's not something a mere coward would stand for.

[@georgekostaras]

I always hated Corkus, but I loved the fact that he was a believable and realistic asshole

[@ParkerDavis]

I don't know what you're talking about. Corkus (RIP homie) was the best character.

[@danizimo]

When I see Corkus, I remember Shingo from Initial D for some reason

[@Grauer1510]

Guts trying to find something of his own reminds me of Solaire from Dark Souls. He too tried to find his "very own sun". Myazaki truly loved this Manga.

[@ZyroShadowPony]

I forgot who said it but they said "he is an asshole but he is our asshole"

[@ALCPEREZ]

I never hated Corkus. Yes, he is a coward and unable to be that which he wants to be, strong, valiant, and absolutely capable, just as you said, but I see something else going on. As Griffith added this "mark", Guts, to the Band of the Hawk, there was yet another person to get in his way. Caska and perhaps even Judeo or Pippen, every person added to the roster was yet another heart taking the light of Griffith away from him. Despite Corkus' jealousy, sadness, and hopeless one-sided feelings, he remains loyal to Griffith. Upon my second time watching the show I noticed other than the time Corkus asked to attack Guts, Griffith never looks at Corkus, nor does he ever acknowledge any words he speaks. Odd coldness, the warmth of Griffith's light is just gone. Denied him by the long and dark shadows of those Groffith truly favors. Yet still, to the end, he remained loyal. Berserk is a great tragedy all around.

[@Mr440c]

As many others already said, never hated him. In fact this character provokes deep emotions because of how much this character resonates with reality. One thing that's important to note is that he hates Guts but does not show envy or hate towards Griffith. He accepts other people being gifted and blessed by fate but despises those who try to break through their boundaries because it is a genuinely scary thing to do and deep down that is what he always wished for himself. He's very similar to the character of Matahachi from Vagabond.

[@kevinerives8975]

I dont think most people really disliked him, he just wasnt Guts, Griffith, Casca or even Judeau or Rickert.

[@rabbialmodovar7231]

Corkus is jealous of Guts. Guys always ignores Corkus whenever he tries to start a fight with him.

[@aztekwarrior8398]

Spoiler I can understand why people don’t like corkus, and even though he was never that friendly with Guts he gave me a feeling that he did care for Guts to an extent, like when Guts was talking about laeving the band even though corkus was telling him his reasons were stupid and how good they have it, it felt like he was trying to keep him from leaving and he got unreasonably angry in that moment while everyone else was calm he was literally telling him the pros of staying and cons of leaving, you leave you die for stupid reasons you stay you get respect and women, and when he realized that Guts had to duel Griffith to leave he seemed a little too happy, he gets angry when Guts says he’s leaving and happy when something gets in his way of doing so, and notice how corkus is was the only band member that didn’t say it was Guts actions that got the band taken out but in his own way like “you ain’t that special bro calm down” that’s why I never really hated corkus and actually felt bad when he died

[@bullethraar4341]

bro who kill corkus? which episode?

[@waifung3367]

of all characters in the manga, Guts has the highest tolerance toward Corkus in the entire manga, Corkus could constantly insults, and look down on Guts without Guts retailiation. when Casca call Guts a mad dog in the golden age arc, Gut is annoyed and would fight back, but when Corkus say the same, Guts go silent.

[@adrithmanvik1853]

Am I the only one who loved him from the start. Idk why I usually love characters most ppl hate cos in a way I kinda feel bad for them.

[@wn6694]

He seems like the regular dude guts slices in half, though in this case corkus got a big role and is part of the hawks 😂 I love it

[@Monster0C]

corkus and jean from aot are like brothers

[@zuffin1864]

Guts never seemed bothered by him so i just assumed he was able to get along with him off screen

[@xvoidxhunter2129]

I like your style, Spirit of Fiction, I will be watching more of your Berserk content for sure