The Hidden Depth of ZORO | The Anatomy of One Piece

[@n.nirbhai1072]

"Zoro was the first one to look the big bad world in the eyes, and lived to tell the tale" .. Mark you killed this brother.

[@keinoh493]

Totally agree. A helluva bar.

[@marxist-leninist-protagonist]

just like Akainu

[@SOFOB]

Zorro to Luffy is like Ryuma or someone who we dont know yet to Joy boy. Surely Joy boy had not only emeth and zunisha on his side but also the greatest swordsman from Wano

[@Animus_Altia]

I'm so glad you touched on the difference between Zoro and Sanji offering themselves up to Kuma. It's a subtle difference that you only really get the full grasp of after Whole Cake Island, but the fact that Sanji does so out of a lack of value for himself is so core to who he has been as a character. Meanwhile, Zoro values his strength and role as the Guardian of the Strawhat Crew so highly that he can't allow anyone else to take on such a burden. If he were to fail to do so, then he wouldn't be worthy of becoming the World's Greatest Swordsman. Such trials are another step on his road to that dream, and if he dies, then he wasn't good enough, but it's never an outright attempt at sacrifice.

[@sharkguy2340]

Those differences in character are why I love both of them throughout most of the series. Their arguments make so much sense, and when they work together is all the better.

[@omermuhammet6526]

Other time where zoro enormous strength was presented when he blocked the joint attack from Kaido and Big Mom and saved Luffy and the other captains with that That scene asserted that Zoro is presented to be the gaurdman of Luffy and Straw Hats

[@rimimimimimimimim4170]

I think it also speaks to Zoro being the NUMBER TWO in the crew, and why he is the right hand man of the two "wings" of the future king of the pirates. Zoro AND Sanji have always been the ones to look at it how they did with the Usopp situation, if you didn't notice, SANJI AGREES WITH ZORO, he ALSO saw what Zoro saw, but Zoro is the FIRST TO SEE IT and the FIRST TO STAND UP AND TAKE ACTION, that's why he was also first to stand up and take the pain, when Sanji was also ready to offer himself. That's what I would add to the video in terms of Zoro's character, but he still did a great job, an amazing video and it really does speak to Sanji's character too how he is truly KIND. Sanji is the best written character in the show, and the more you watch it's easier to see that, but Sanji is such an unbelievably kind and compassionate character, and it makes sense for him to put his crew before himself, even at the cost of his own life, like he was going to in Big mom later on in the series, but Zoro like you said, took it as a challenge and was - as usual - even more loyal than Sanji (Sanji does not get enough credit for how truly loyal he is, LUFFY AND NAMI WOULD HAVE DIED if he didn't sacrifice himself, at that point, worn out from battle, on the spot they would have died), but Zoro doesn't even stop to think before throwing himself for luffy, and is always the first to display his loyalty, really a fitting scene, showing how truly amazing Zoro is, but also Sanji.

[@rimimimimimimimim4170]

What I meant by they would die on the spot is if he didn't beat up Luffy, they would have died, Luffy and Sanji were BOTH not in a state to take on the big mom crew AND Germa alone, and Nami didn't have Zeus either

[@LeonaLeZard]

Nah it’s because Luffy is more important to him than his ambition, Mihawk said it himself

[@g-rift6498]

One thing I love about the “absolutely nothing scene” is before zoro goes in he just breathes. And does it. No monologue. No flashback. No long winded speech about friendship or being strong and hope. He just inhales and goes in. Absolutely nothing Legendary.

[@GamingRemo]

This is the part that I find the most badass about it. Every single time there has been danger, Zoro plunges into it like its nothing but spring water. That's a pretty formidable person to have to fight against. We found that out when he squared off against Big Mom and Kaido, Big mom was actually scared he was about to kill Kaido, and Kaido agreed by dodging.

[@bellyman1783]

You just summarised Zoro

[@g-rift6498]

@@bellyman1783 he’s the 🐐

[@g-rift6498]

@@GamingRemo not sure if it was a killing blow- but regardless there is no filter or limit on my man. All or nothing- all balls no fear

[@MrGalRoz]

The Mad Lad did it, he made the "no one understand zoro" video before Nux did.

[@AprilSamurai]

Good nuxs wouldn't have been good anymore he's washed

[@josephblackett5488]

🤣🤣🤣

[@1yoshi426]

MelonTree also made a video of Zoro, she has a bunch of videos like this one.

[@naahgol8608]

i used to watch him all the time now its just random sounds and odd phrases no real meat and potatoes@@AprilSamurai

[@notsosilentprotag]

O'Hara already did a Zoro analysis and over all on the crew and also specific moments years ago so who cares who has or hasn't. I'm enjoying Marks analysis so far. Can't wait for the next one.

[@sonic5993]

What makes the Water 7 such a pivotal moment for Zoro is that his words flipped everyone's dynamics on their head; Sanji who usually is Zoro's biggest critic, agrees with him wholly, and Nami who usually is the voice of reason, has no rebuttal. It's a wonderful scene.

[@yderga8707]

Water Seven brought all of the characters to a new level of writing to a peak that (imho) the show hasn't been able to reach again. At least not from a character perspective, from a story perspective it's still awesome. But when I think of the strawhats as a crew and what makes them different than most other shonen groups, I refer to the Skypiea-Enies Lobby period of one piece, because the buildup and connections formed there felt the most genuine out of any shonen I've ever seen.

[@IdgasAlpha]

The biggest point I feel about Zoro not letting Usopp come back to the crew was the point that even if Luffy is an idiot and not what a typical captain is, they will treat him with respect because he is the captain. And if they don't, what kind of crew could they be but children playing pirate.

[@Fazal12d]

Honestly i do feel He did that for Usopp's as well, He needed to man up and apologize for what he did so that their Friendship could be restored and there wont be any bad feeling between them, Zoro believed in usopp to do the right thing which he did

[@gazeboist4535]

I read it as the key pivot in the story of the Strawhats becoming a serious pirate crew. That thread is the main concern of the story from Long Ring Long Land and Water 7 (where we see how easily the crew fragments) through Enies Lobby (where they begin to truly come together), and on to Thriller Bark (which is all about showcasing their teamwork). That moment where Zoro demands Usopp's apology is him making sure that the bonds they've built over Enies Lobby truly set, so that the Strawhats as a crew will never face a disaster like Water 7 again. This is all resolved just in time for Luffy to be annealed into a true pirate captain, following a very similar thread from the initial arrival at Saobody, through Marineford and the timeskip, and then on to the triumphant return. The disaster of Saobody wouldn't be what it is if the crew hadn't already overcome the disaster of Water 7, and it wouldn't work as specifically *Luffy's* disaster if the crew was still vulnerable to a Water 7 style shattering. And of course Zoro marks the transition from one story thread to the other in the "nothing happened" moment - simultaneously showing how strong the bonds of the crew are, while also showing how Luffy is still being sheltered from the demands of his position.

[@newt2120]

​@@Fazal12ddamn i never looked at it that way

[@dothangbui4918]

that's how rocks is different to straw hat it seems

[@chingizzhylkybayev8575]

That's... that's literally what Zoro said

[@ArtBusinesswithNess]

Zoro is my favorite character and you explained why so well. On every re-watch, it still amazes me how quickly Zoro goes from "go away" to "I will die for you". For Zoro it's more than friendship, his complete respect and loyalty to Luffy is beautiful to watch. By the time he fights Mihawk, he's already become more concerned about disappointing his captain than anything else. As a kid, he wanted to become the best swordsman for himself. Then, he wanted to do it for Kuina. And now, he wants to do it for Luffy.

[@mixofmatt]

Zoro is so much more than just the “cool right hand man” that everybody sees him as

[@doram.a8475]

Lol he sucks as character, and stop glazing him

[@simonbornsinner]

@@doram.a8475this comment definitely changes the way I view him now thanks so much

[@MarianaBello-fq3hx]

@@doram.a8475 Define "sucks as a character" because he does well the role he is supossed to have in the story.

[@RetroEternity]

@@doram.a8475I’m waiting for your 30 minute video essay defending your wrong opinion

[@Lwilibert]

Not really. He isnt.... If after thoussndd of chapters your Depth Is "hidden" then there wasnt any to begin with.

[@danielsanchez9791]

Another moment that really pushes this is when Zoro begs Mihawk to train him during 3D2Y moment. Mihawk was surprised at how quickly Zoro puts his pride aside for others.

[@Raph___A]

This morning, I saw a TBSKyen short where he describes Zoro as someone with every character trait worthy of a shonen protagonist, yet because he isn't and Luffy is, it makes him all the more better because he bounces off his captain so well. I love this moss-headed man.

[@monitaren2530]

the "Nothing happened" scene really shooked me. I wanted for his friends to know what he went through for them and it felt so unjust he did not tell. But it shows to the extreme that Zoro does not care about how he is perceived, nor he needs recognicion. He does what is right, and nobody else has to know. That really teached me about my own life as well. Just live acording to your values, and if you do, you do not need for others to know. Be true to yourself.

[@Zion800]

Its also not the only reason.... Luffy would have been broken emotionally to know what Zoro did for him.... and it would have made Luffy hesitate in future before charging head first... Zoro knew for Luffy to chase a crazy dream, he would need to do it without hesitation and Zoro solely intended to be the Rock that anchors Luffy without needing Luffy to know that

[@kiragamer7520]

@@Zion800that's beautiful ☹️

[@solidskullz5736]

Zoro is a badass swordsman yes, but my favorite thing about him is how loyal to the crew he is. He would go through hell and back for the sake of the straw hats and that scene where he took on all of Luffy’s suffering and came out standing is unforgettable

[@niceguyofgames9490]

He would give his life for everyone on the crew. Even Sanji, if it TRULY came down to it.

[@timurjack8773]

Sanji was going to sacrifice his life for Luffy as well. So its him being ''badass swordsman'' make people like him more.

[@Shiftarus]

It seems like he loves the crew but his loyalty lies mostly with Luffy. His vow was to the captain, and he will stop anybody who threatens his captains dream .... even the other crewmates.

[@rustygear447]

​@@ShiftarusWell said. That's why he's the second in command.

[@SpyralHax]

That scene in Thriller Bark really marked when Zoro overtook Luffy as my favorite character, personally.

[@OGslick]

"What do you fight for" was such an awesome musical choice and very fitting for zoro.

[@Gnull_Gaming]

YES

[@barban534]

It insane how much depth Zoro has for a character that never got his own arc to focus in on him. Just that slow transition from being a swordsman out to protect himself and his dreams to extending that to Luffy's and then it all culminates with him taking charge of the crew and making it his responsibility to lead and protect them when Luffy is not able to is crazy lowkey development that usually played off as a joke or happens in the background.

[@AnonymousAssassin7]

Waiting patiently for that solo flashback arc...

[@boss2868]

Genuinely mind blowing. This video made me realise so many things that i have just subconsciously accepted, through the incremental shifts in his character.

[@Deode-d4h]

What I love about Zoro is that he plays into, but also subverts the cool guy trope. He's always cool and level headed, but he's also pretty dumb outside of combat stuff, he's just as dumb as Luffy but rarely does he show it. He has this stoic face, but isn't afraid to show joy or emotion when meeting up with Luffy and the others as shown at the start of Wano. He has moments where he is being made fun of and isn't afraid to show emotion, such as the case of Perona's ghost and the aftermath of that event. It's these little moments that give life to Zoro. He isn't this generic stoic badass all the time, and he's okay showing emotion that isn't brooding contemplation. I say this because there is a world where Zoro is basically a Hiei clone, and Sasuke and every character similar to him like Aki from Chainsaw Man or Megumi from JJK would be called Zoro/Hiei clones. But no, Oda manages to differentiate Zoro enough that he doesn't fall under that stoic badass trope. It's one of the many things that makes me like Zoro as a character.

[@juiceart9199]

Hiei is a little better than people give him credit for, being very fond of people he finds "fun" and learning humility and compassion for people he's grown close to, actively going out of his way to help Yusuke on many occasions. I'll admit the final arc undid character progression for *most* of the main cast and sent the series off in a rough way, but before that Hiei is great.

[@ib_res2566]

My favorite zoro moment is when he does that Tarzan yell when swinging from a vine in skypeia

[@AVarghul]

A detail i love about Zoro is that he speaks volumes about his character through the use of his swords. And i don't mean the flashy techniques and whatnot, but rather, how in most meaningful of moments, he will always sheathe back his swords and instead draw out the most important of his blades: His Wado Ichimonji, the literal reminder of his goal in life, and his friend's last token. You can see this even in subtle moments like Zoro making his stand on Ussop's return to the team.

[@acetofresh1]

I’m glad people like Mark exist to help rectify and disseminate informations regarding popular narratives and their shortcomings. Because Zoro doesn’t become a completely different person, or because of a lot of his development already occurring anime fans would then reductively deem him one note or cliched, but he has a lot of depth including his emotional awareness, and he’s one of the best deuteragonist the Animanga has to offer.

[@thatinsufferablenerd]

I think this video is the perfect companion piece to MelonTeee's videos about Zoro and how his desire to be strong enough to protect the crew he loves is near desperate. Excellent work Mark, loving this series.

[@scionicog]

MelonTree did a great job highlighting why Sanji tried to step up to the plate for the Pain Bubble. Highly recommend that watch

[@FormerGovernmentHuman]

I love her vids even though some of them are trendy political topics I have zero interest in overall i’m a big fan

[@PisserFartShitt]

​@@FormerGovernmentHuman Genuinely curious which of her videos are "trendy political topics"? Cus that is a confusing statement.

[@snotte.a8670]

Lmao, u talking about human rights? That’s literally the only political topic she consistently talks about

[@PisserFartShitt]

@@snotte.a8670 I too am extremely extremely curious what "trendy political topics" MelonTeee talks about

[@pokeperson1000]

⁠​⁠​⁠​⁠@@snotte.a8670I mean, their username is “FormerGovernmentHuman”. Makes sense that they would avoid human rights content on a general basis. Even though MelonTeee’s content is so much more than that.

[@trumpets101]

The complexity and depth that Oda gives each of his characters is astounding, and nothing short of perfection has he given to Zoro. He IS the cool guy. But it's not just the "cool" factor, its all of the underlying qualities that Oda has bestowed him. He also does the cool stuff. Zoro's fights are just as brilliant as Luffy's. The dynamic that the two have, Zoro is well deserving of First Mate.

[@oliverorchard6774]

You know that Zoro moment in the Post Enies Lobby arc is serious when even Sanji agrees with him.

[@s4xrk]

zoro has been my favorite character since his first introduction and throughout the series i’ve only grown to love him even more. zoro has been the glue for this crew with his willingness to sacrifice himself for the betterment of not just the crew but his captains dream. and in my opinion zoro will undoubtedly go down as the greatest right hand in anime.

[@lukaswithak4443]

one very subtle thing nobody notices is how much Zoro respects every other crewmate and holds them to a higher standard then they hold themselves, like with chopper in foxy pirates arc or when nami is worried about ussop not being with them in enies lobby he says "we dont have anyone in our group who would die so easily"

[@DURPLE-sv4jl]

Man, this new series of videos is great. It’s always great to hear you talk about One Piece, since it’s what initially got me into the anime and manga. Keep up the awesome work!

[@Flameblade102]

I also want to mention MelonTeee's recent vid about the 'Nothing Happened'. She made the good point that, while that scene is still amazing in its own right, it should be looked at it being the closest the crew has come to almost losing a crew member and the Straw Hats barely scraped by at the end. Especially when you look at it in manga and how it implied the dead silence surrounding Zoro amidst his own blood whereas the anime used heroic OST, thus creating conflicting meanings between manga and anime But still great analysis Mark!

[@ellosteve]

FRR

[@TheRythimMan]

I really like this. It's funny but as soon as you pointed out him making a promise to his rival all of a sudden it all just clicked and i felt like i understood Zoro so much better. I'm surprised it took me so long to notice. But it really explains his motivations throughout the entire series. Not only is he living on borrowed time but he found a friend in Luffy who's as true to his word as he is, so it's only natural that they'd form such a strong bond even though on the surface you'd think Zoro would be too "cool" and strong to let himself be led by a goofball like Luffy.

[@tcrpgfan]

Here's another wild one. Zoro and Sanji's rivalry stems from the women that were in their pasts, how those women acted, and how society treated their loved ones.

[@ashketchup7354]

"lost himbo" is just one outer layer of the delicious onion that is Zoro

[@fishtank39]

lmao perfectly said

[@smileyent.3055]

cringe

[@aquelgamermexicano]

The concept of the parallels between Luffy and Zoro when it comes to how they read people really resonated with me. We often get told to have a bigger appreciation for the "show, don't tell" narrative, and even IRL, you get told to pay attention to what people do rather than what people say. But then there's people like Zoro who think that speaking on its own is an action, that the fact that you are willing to say certain things to people IS indeed important. And how words are only cheap when we don't give them value to begin with.

[@TheDonmayo]

Zoro has been my favorite character out of any media ever for over 20 years, glad to see how he is still relevant to this day.

[@TehDalek]

The only thing I love more than One Piece is good analysis of One Piece Oda is such a great story teller

[@catzzara]

my favorite part is that it's zoros original occupation as a bounty hunter that gives him the perspective that no matter how strong you think you are there's always going to be someone bigger and badder and stronger than you that will be ready to kill you. because he has always been that person finding these pirates that have these bounties and were no doubt cocky and so sure of themselves until they were being handed into the marines in bags for money. he understands the psychology of being the bigger fish and he won't let the crew fall fully into the trap of "we were so strong look who we took down before". he'll enjoy the victories of course but he's ALWAYS ready for that bigger fish to come knocking.

[@rimimimimimimimim4170]

This series is so good. Zoro is one of the best and deepest characters in anime, he's amazing. I think Sanji is obviously the best WRITTEN character, but Zoro is such a great and important character. The other video on Luffy being genius is amazing too just saying, and it's putting into words a lot of stuff I have seen watching one piece and completely agree with

[@AvgWingman]

This video literally reignited my love for Zoro as a character

[@theakyosmith]

Cool!

[@jamilislam8147]

This video made me relive those moments that I love the most. Zoro's the best character to me in the whole animeverse.

[@freshjuice457]

Wow! I was watching this video in a cafe and i still couldnt stop tears from falling! What an emotional take on Zoro and also so well explained! Thank you for this video!

[@charbox6150]

As someone who has read and watched it all from One Piece this gave me a different perspective on Zoro, quality stuff. Great to see some dub mixed into this one Mark!

[@akshkumarsingh2668]

Your presentation never cease to amaze me how deep you go to expliain each subtle topic is insane and the like at the end of video gave me goosebumps Had been fan of channel from a long time and will be you are awesome

[@louelastic954]

1:05 This theme slaps harder than any other character in One Piece. Honestly, you deserve an award for this video. Zoro has always had criminally underappreciated depth to his character and it's nice to see a notable content creator contextualize that so well. Zoro is my favorite character in the series and it goes far beyond him simply being cool. Bravo 👏🏻

[@2changJRPGmusic]

Holy shit mark, your ability to dissect these characters is amazing! Ive always loved Zoro but I never connected helmeppo breaking his promise to Zoro as a significant event in his arc. This re-contextualizes his entire character for me.

[@johnmarino8052]

5 minutes in and youre already dropping fresh One Piece takes that make sense to me. Mark, i am forever grateful. Thank you for introducing me to One Piece!

[@sokkatoba2733]

We could argue that Zoro's dream evolved where protecting his friends and his captain is Zoro's definition of being the greatest swordsman in the world. A swordsman that could protect anyone.

[@Itezashu]

I literally cry at the end of the video, your speech at the end was so spot on and amazing 😭. The meaning of what Zoro is for luffy omg. Great hommage for my fav character. Thank u for this 👏🏼 I can't wait for sanji's video.

[@Zorro9713]

This is an incredibly well made video... Might just have changed my life forever. Imma try to be just a little bit more like Zoro and give more meaning to my words and dreams. Thank you Mark.

[@falsemango204]

13:05 I-.. Is that Zoro's VA doing the Luffy and Zoro Reunion? Cause all that gives me is Knuckles and Knuckles featuring Knuckles flashbacks.

[@Bboyblak8]

Mark, your videos are the only videos I like before even watching them because I know how much dedication and effort you and your crew put into them. Your anime/manga insights are my favorite in all of KZbin. I've been a follower for some years now and I hope to continue to be for many more to come. Much love from Dominican Republic!

[@zeezilthereal]

Recognized the track from Ori as soon as I heard it, my second favorite game behind only its sequel. 13:46

[@mustafa_moja]

got chills at the end

[@sadowbeats7081]

This video was beautiful, zoro was always my fav character in one piece its not only how cool he is. Like what this video was about his convictions is what got me loving him. No matter what situation he will always help and save his friends while’s persuading the tilte of worlds stronges swordmann. Thank you for this video it was beautiful to watch. Keep it up Mark

[@cyberslink1320]

"Zoro granted Luffy legitimacy on that chapter. He made him for the very first time a real Capitan, no longer a kid playing pirate and Zoro will ensure that remains reality or die trying." This is awesome, remarkably poetic. Only fate could have bring those two together at the right time. I never really thought about it that way.

[@StrugglerNick]

A excellent analysis, and a well done video, sir! You basically selected my favorite moments in One Piece - Zoro is the greatest

[@evelynarhondi6375]

Thank you for understanding Zoro 🙏 Most people really can't see beyond the surface and often misjudge him. Because Zoro is a character with generally subtle reactions and few words, it's easy for both other characters and readers/watchers to misunderstand him. This may seem weird but: I know many people don't really like the anime because of the reaction shots. Personally, that's exactly what I love about it! I especially love what they do to Zoro's reactions to situations and people; how they give you the chance to actually see Zoro for who he really is. The close ups to Zoro when Usopp first appeared when Garp was chasing them away from Water 7 or his reaction to Sanji's phone call in Wano (and many others before, after and in between) all betray his inner thoughts if you really want to look beyond the surface. It's a shame the manga doesn't have enough time to focus on these things. There wasn't even enough time for more Zoro in the Wano arc (which was originally expected to have more about him). Even though I am grateful for the SBS we got on his family tree and his backstory. It really shed some light into Zoro's role as a protector and how deeply he values his new family. Oda-sensei got a bit of hate for this "mess" but personally I understand and am pleased with the result. Thank you, sensei 🙏 Great video, Mark 👍 I love all your work 😊

[@Duran8998]

I never needed an explanation. Zoro was always my favorite. I just knew it would be him.

[@lonewolf9325]

15:15 Ori and the Blind Forest aye...Nice bg music.

[@eyupyavuz7751]

I love Ori games so much. It is truly underrated. I highly recommend anyone to play them.

[@rohanvora54]

I was looking for something like this on KZbin and finally came across your video after much effort. All I can say is Thanks! Such an amazing description of Zoro which completely resonates with me! Great job Mark!

[@kennethking2687]

Great video, excited to see your Usopp character analysis.

[@christophertyrrell4018]

Mihawk in the live action was introduced in an extremely terrifying way I thought just cutting multiple ships down from shore, destroying high bounty pirates without breaking a sweat. Still absolutely love this video, great work.

[@Kobolds_in_a_trenchcoat]

Minor point of correction, none of the straw hats have ever called Zoro a first mate or vice captain. He effectively fills the role whenever Luffy isn't around and he is usually equated to the first mate whenever the straw hats are compared to other crews but he is never considered in that position among the straw hats themselves. Luffy is the captain but thats the entire hierarchy. Nobody else has any hierarchical ranks, only skills they provide.

[@johnsouls4179]

incredibly good video. your way with words gave me goosebumps. big respect for the great quality 👏

[@MARSHALLDPREACH]

The greatest character in One Piece. great video Mark!

[@riduanaqil1452]

Zoro is such a simple man that people usually just overlook his character arc but if you noticed the subtle way he talks about things and how he address certain characters like kuina, tashigi and monet you'll start to realize that there might be more that we just haven't seen yet from Zoro

[@javierl9426]

I really loved zoro as a character before time-skip. He was such a deep character, but also one with lots of funny moments. Now that it wouldn't fit him to still strongly advise a Luffy which is just much mature than before, I see him just being a badass rock. And it's not his fault, is more like he no longer has things to contribute other than badass fights and wait till the moment he fulfills both his main goals. At least I wanted him to still laugh and have personality (which he seems to have mostly lost) 😢

[@finntheperson670]

Wow. This is unironically one of my favorite KZbin videos that I have ever seen. Amazing work!!

[@thehobbyist7275]

I think something else to add to go even further, Zoro still had pride in himself after being tossed away by Kuma in Sabody. Zoro was the first to go after all (little did I know at the time he wasn't dead even if I thought that for a brief moment). I think we see Zoro merging both his dreams and his desire to protect Luffy and the Strawhats when he finally lets Mihawk train him over the timeskip. I feel that now, coming out of Wano, Zoro's trek with him wielding Enma, being known as the "King of Hell," the extra context behind his flashback during Wano, and his fight and parallel with King, further cement his strengths. King and Queen aren't like Sanji and Zoro. When it really matters, they don't get along, whereas our boys do. To me, King's loyalty to Kaido was Zoro's loyalty to Luffy in a completely blind way. Zoro thinks logically and practically through most of everything he does, and we know he's consulted Luffy about things in the past. From what we got from King, King never was a consul to Kaido. King thought Kaido was invincible and knew everything there was when he didn't . Zoro knows the limitations of his crew and captain and where to step in, much like Sanji does for Zoro

[@salmannader1762]

I would also like to add that King had no kingly ambition other than protecting his captain and that separated him from Zoro who synonymously holds two promises that are yet to be fulfilled,

[@CrawlerCarter]

Zoro has been one of my favorite character tied with sanji sense both of them entered the picture.

[@Alert111]

I love the character analysis but I would love the discussion to have a bit of post time skip moment more like I think the Wano arc kinda of makes Zoro change a bit. It is rare for Zoro to fight for someone's sake ( who isn't his friend) Yasuie make use see a bit of Zoro's heroic side. his fight with King is one of the best moments for his character with him questioning himself as we have never seen before, He can't kill Kaido and can't land an attack on King kinda makes him waver but Enma really help him a lot. I love how it is all about the greatest swordman in the world can be achieved when his captain is the best pirate in the world.

[@TheSoulHunter69]

thank you for actually putting the music used in the desc, actual youtuber

[@Pluveus]

Can we talk about that little montage at 18:10. Goddamn Editor-san, that was fire!

[@CombativeRoboGuy]

Watching this video made me truly love Zoro and understand exactly why I relate to him so much. I value the words people say and I loved Zoro’s statement in Water 7 because I have had to make the exact same decision saying “You messed up. You have to understand that and say sorry or we can’t be friends” and seeing Usopp’s response was so joyful for me. THIS is why Zoro is one of my favorites.

[@boss2868]

00:10 no seriously, how dare you 😶

[@The_rea1_dave]

how dare he

[@13cheshirecats19]

He’s always been my favorite character in any media. Thank you for putting the resins into words!

[@JohnnyStar]

Mark One Piece goodness on Saturday, I am blessed⭐️

[@ChrisVlogsHimself]

I’ve been reading and watching one piece for about 6 years now. in fact, right now I’m bulking up to cosplay Zoro at a con this year in August. During that time, Zoro wasn’t really a character that I took another glance at. This video really helped me think about and understand his character. Thank you Mark!

[@オラ-f8e]

"Humans are fragile creatures, Zoro!" Humans are weak creatures, no matter how strong and powerful they are, they will die, and no matter how much they escape death, their day will come when they will die, perhaps for some ridiculous reason, like falling down the stairs, for example. Do you know what's worse than hearing the news of the death of someone dear to you who suddenly left without fulfilling a promise or even saying goodbye to you? I think this is the message of Zoro's backstory. Its application is simple, but it is a reality that happens in anyone's life at any hour.

[@salmannader1762]

I think that also explains his recklessness in the heat of battle, often fighting wounded or otherwise with a disability. It's why he embraces death because he experienced it first-hand with his best friend dying in such a random way. In his eyes, if Fate has it, then he would die no matter if he is a novice or the world's greatest swordsman. That is why he has a close connection with Fate and Destiny

[@GeorgeAlex.Somarakis]

This is Probably one of the best produced review parts of op I've ever seen

[@Wusaruful]

and yet zoro is the same when we first saw him, no change through adversity the same instant winning charlie sheen char

[@Omegateck16]

Love your OP vids Mark!

[@CrescentMoons1432]

Zoro is my favorite character of all time!!! Every time I take a One Piece character test I always get Zoro

[@darkthunder168]

Zoro getting his own video in Febuaray, would he be proud of that? 🧐😂

[@isumademonfox8913]

Black history month- Zoro: my time has come

[@SamTheGumMan117]

Minority Hunter Agenda begins again

[@SamTheGumMan117]

Underrated comment 🤣

[@thecapn3560]

Omg 😂😂😂😂 Zoro did it again

[@mynamedontmatter4796]

Ofcourse he would he needs to show those that even in their month he is superior

[@buttonsforbooks]

If I remember right if was filler, but I always remember the scene in alabaster between Zoro and Chopper where Zoro explains what teamwork is to him, that really exemplified his position on the crew as well as his relationship to his and Luffys dreams respectively. That scene really helped to set up all the moments later wherein various strawhats would declare that their captain would be the king of the pirates

[@Jdirjrbtbjdi]

Finally, no one understands zoro

[@xyzbeast1982]

Its been so long since i heard that name come out of nux's mouth Never thought i would hear it again

[@HollowKonpaku]

THANK YOUUUUUUU for giving your time to One Piece and filling the fandom with amazing video essays!

[@danielsantiagourtado3430]

LOVE your work mark! 🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@Tao_Tennou]

What. A. Video! This doesn't just show the importance of Zoro, it highlights why One Piece is what it is. Incredible 👏🏾👏🏾

[@atrain-wr9je]

Zero is such a pillar of tenacity and principle in one piece.

[@mayanksoni7635]

those statement always felt through my heart , it was straight but still a deep statement when zoro said ' "I'll Be The World's Greatest Swordsman So That My Name Will Reach Heaven!''. at that point i was so sad for zoro for what happened to kuina and yet so thrilled to hear those words. he wanted to say , actually he wanted kuina to be aware of that , that one of em gonna be greatest, and he hasnt lost his hope. she died but he was like ill make her hear those screams of people calling his name which reaches out to heaven.

[@RastaGamesful]

I think Zoro is my favourite of the crew. Yes, he has his shortcomings, such as when he forgets where to go on the road, excessive laziness and bad character, but this is probably his feature and that’s why the fans love him so much. He has a rather tragic story, he wants to become the world's greatest swordsman and almost his whole life was not full of love and fun. So he gets close to the Straw Hats and goes with them on a search for adventure and One Piece and becomes a friendly team, perhaps even a family where everyone matters and everyone is needed intercede.

[@tdb1726]

Awesome video! I love Zoro, and this analysis just got me so pumped up and a little emotional, if I'm honest. One of my favorite lines in the whole series is "Scars on the back are a swordsman's shame." Up there with Nami asking for Luffy's help and Robin's "I want to live" scene.

[@thebossdawghomie]

No, you will not discuss why Zoro didn't let Sanji take his place at a later date, you will do it NOW!!!! 😭 😢

[@AnonymousSpirit]

YESSSS we need to discuss this

[@Rafix]

incredible how you can see AND appreciate ALL of the straw hats crew as "extremely simple" AND "extremely complex", this is truly god character writing

[@MarianaBello-fq3hx]

In terms of character work, Zoro vs King is the best Onigashima fight because both memebers are direct paralels to each other. King is a reflection of what Zoro could've become without having his personal ambition.

[@bartolomeuterleira8094]

dude.... yhis is insane before opening yt i was literally thinking that zoro lacks a bit of sauce, and the the first video recommend is this SCARY

[@annesavisaboochuy]

no way you thought he was boring pre water 7

[@the_armada5579]

Thank you TotalltNotMark. Its because of you that I started watching the One Piece live action which made me start to watch the anime. I'm still less than 200 episodes in, but loving the story so far. Thank you

[@danielsantiagourtado3430]

BEST first mate luffy could have asked for but his utter lack of sense of direction will always be funny 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@Peapod901]

For a video that talks about Zoro's hidden depth, this really only scratches the surface. MelonTeee made a video on Zoro that, while touching on this, also touches on a lot more

[@TryForce]

Thank you for that bit. I now, too, see Zoro in a different light! Much appreciated!

[@mathewzuniga1760]

That was so beautiful. Quite poetic. Well put together and presented in a manner that befits a professional and someone who is very knowledgeable of the story and characters. BRAVO!

[@Phatnaru0002]

Problem is, that like most of the strawhats, he stopped having any character development, or even character moments in general, after the timeskip.

[@tlungu962]

yup, Sanji is lucky he had WCI. B/c he was one of the worst flanderizations in post timeskip. Oda saved his character, hopefully he can do the same for the rest of the straw hats in the final saga

[@kauanjos3199]

People like to complain about Nami, Robin or chopper (They all had their moment in wano) not having development in the time skip but the one that actually suffered the most was Zoro, Bro just became the strong side character, even the whole Ryuma plot line that was meant to develop him was underdeveloped because, uh oh we have to end wano faster to get shanks to appear to make a cameo about a character (Uta) that's gonna appear in a non canon movie. Leave to the anime to have a best conclusion for the arc that took 4 years in a filler episode.

[@Duthum]

this is just why Zoro is my favourite character. The honor honesty and truthfullness is just so important in this small world

[@omni1139]

I hope you haven't forgotten about the hajime no ippo review.

[@knocks42]

Excited to see one of these about Usopp, my favorite character. He's a deeply flawed person, which reminds me of myself.