Why Iroh is the Pinnacle of Masculinity

Uncle Iroh from Avatar: The Last Airbender is quite possible the best example of true, authentic masculinity in fiction. By living out essential virtues of integrity, humility, patience, and more, he shows us what it means to be a man.
#avatarthelastairbender
Credit to The Art of Manliness for the line about masculinity/femininity playing the same notes in different ways.
www.artofmanliness.com/charac...
Music credits:
Where We Belong - Helmut Schenker
A World of Dreams - Christoffer Moe Ditlevsen
She Is Everywhere - Clarence Reed
Indulgence - Alec Slayne
Inspiration - Megan Wofford
Adventure Awaits - Dream Cave
Find My Boy and Bring Him Home - Bonnie Grace
All licensed through Epidemic Sound
0:00 Intro
1:34 Integrity
3:59 Loyalty
6:20 Patience
8:40 Authenticity
11:30 Humility
14:09 Humor
16:41 Strength
19:13 Wisdom
21:23 Love

[@master_samwise]

Wow, uh... was not expecting such a wonderful response to this video. Thank you so much for tuning in. Avatar: the Last Airbender is one of my favorite shows of all time, and I'm overjoyed that so many other people still love discussing this amazing show and its incredible characters as much as I do. I will definitely be making more videos about ATLA in the not-too-distant future, in addition to my usual Star Wars content. Plus, I'm planning on talking about Arcane, and a few more things that have caught my fancy lately.

[@TheDragonfriday]

I want to see the most heartworms crossover with 2 broken character form different series iroh: from aviator last air bender Excalibur Umbra: Warframe why those 2 specifically? both have something in common but one total opposite but could help each other out if they ever meet. what is Excalibur Umbra? It's an Warframe an humanoid engineer bio weapon, fair stronger then any human. Only purpose is to fight, guard, defend, Purge, assassinate perfect soldiers the empire they created. They move fast with gorilla tactics in mind. I setup a scene how they meet and react each other Iroh walking into a forest, but notice something off his surroundings he doesn't recognize. Foggy flat ground full of cut edge stones scattered all over the place an abandoned ruin? The light is so bright from the moon tonight, but iroh shows some confused what he is looking at the sky. Looks like the moon, but it's not? only describe as cracked moon with golden decoration. Not so long staring the Moon, he heard loud roar from the distance middle of the place a single blossom tree. Under the tree, an humanoid being clinching his blades into the ground releasing white energy surround it while roaring. iroh decided to come closer to this entity while singing the song leaves from the vine as it comes closer behind Excalibur Umbra, next to the blossoms tree. Pack his back, underneath the blossom tree another sword with stone carving of a name. It's a graveyard full of soldiers. The roar umbra makes, his crys calling out his regret. it's Umbra's son grave he is moaning his death over 1000 years. The empire that they fought for is gone, all love one are gone, nobody left but ruins. I imagine iroh would realize what going on right away without saying much, maybe he could help ease the pain losing sons together. also umbra know to play an instrument made up instrument Shawzin. I could see Umbra play his Shawzin while iroh sing.

[@noodlesthedragonite7512]

You weren't expecting this response? The minute you put Iroh in the title the ATLA community swarms. We all know that Iroh is the ideal male role model lacking in the real world today.

[@teleous1068]

Well deserved recognition! Great video and character analysis onto our favorite uncle. Would love to see your analysis on SW & Arcane. Keep it up!!!

[@barrag3463]

Everyone loves ATLA; it's a very well written show that holds up years later, even watching it as an adult, and a huge part of that is in how well written the main cast is (and even some of the secondary cast).

[@ebonyblack4563]

Wonderful written and thoughtful.

[@TitusCastiglione1503]

By the time the show starts, Iroh had already achieved peak masculinity, and he basically just wanted to chill with his favorite nephew while our heroes save the world. What a legend.

[@simarhymez7819]

Zuko is Iroh's only nephew

[@TitusCastiglione1503]

@@simarhymez7819 yeah; he’s still his favorite though.

[@einkilian]

​@@TitusCastiglione1503 and technically his least favorite

[@TitusCastiglione1503]

@@einkilian how….

[@einkilian]

@@TitusCastiglione1503he is his only nephew, so he is technically his favorite and least favorite at the same time. There is no competition, so hes both

[@yuriajones]

I'm just about 60 seconds in when I hear this, "Masculinity is not the opposite of femininity, but rather the opposite of boyish immaturity". And I KNOW this video is exactly what it needs to be. Thank you.

[@0giwan]

I thought that line was absolutely brilliant, and I think if I take anything from this video, it will be that.

[@MrMarinus18]

We have to keep in mind that Avatar was in the early 2000's and Iroh really reminds me of a WW2 veteran. WW2 was the height of socialism in the west and it greatly informed the definition of masculinity. Selflessness was by many seen as the thing that separated men from boys. A boy cares only about themselves and chases some fictional notion of honor and prestige and has too fragile an ego to let himself be dependent on others. A man understands that he is just one part of a much bigger world and that what affects one affects all. He knows that we all depend on each other and that rejecting help is a sign of weakness and immaturity. This had real world consequences with the new deal and the GI bill and many other government projects alongside higher government taxes, public services, social welfare, as well as powerful labour unions, church organisations, charities and so on. The idea that we all share society and that every single man needs to pay their fair share of taxes which means the rich pay more than the poor. That facilities and infrastructure that we all need should be publicly owned. Some don't like bringing in politics like that but I think it matters. Trying to take real world politics out of ideals makes them hollow. Ideals matter in society, we aren't just at the mercy of the market or of the elite. What people believe really does have a serious impact on policies and the real world.

[@redraikotsu8633]

@@MrMarinus18 Thank you for sharing your perspective. Know that you said this at a time when someone needed to see it.

[@Dallows65]

@@MrMarinus18… Besides the political take, everything you said was… said. I guess. I’m trying to not be mean but that is an extremely warped view of history 😂

[@Dr.D.R.]

Masculinity is meant to be complimentary to femininity. The two together is balance and harmony.

[@gubzs]

I've had two people independently, an ex girlfriend and a coworker, tell me I remind them of this character and that's the single greatest compliment I've ever received.

[@RoseyCakess]

It's great to hear they said that about you, and you are definitely allowed to feel proud of it, but remember that you aren't Iroh, you may have the qualities of him, but you are still your own

[@Nichrysalis]

I got that compliment once. It made my year.

[@theviewer9363]

Your doing something right if they said this!

[@DearStephanieX]

Amazing compliment ❤

[@vikasmaniram4059]

@@RoseyCakessthat was genuinely a very nice thing to say

[@alkon8032]

Iroh: "Ozai may have been your father boy. But he wasn't your daddy.."

[@Didymus20X6]

"I'M MARY POPPINS YALL!"

[@Lukkaboc]

Lol, perfect!

[@Skyrimbekleyenadam]

Uhh phrasing iş a bit off

[@Claymann71]

Anyone can be a Father. (Women like fun too, after all!) Not everyone can be a Dad, tho.

[@Claymann71]

​@Didymus20X6 I lost the Game. 🤣👌

[@irishleopard2745]

"Masculinity and femininity are not opposites. Two insurments playing the same cord will have different sounds" that is so profound

[@glendegroot8403]

That's very beautiful.

[@GG-jm7kv]

Yeah chat gpt comes in clutch

[@jpdokkanesestr]

​@@GG-jm7kv???

[@why-bk8or]

@@GG-jm7kvvery funny

[@shoobzy3431]

​@@GG-jm7kvjust cuz you're not smart enough to come up with that doesn't mean someone else isn't

[@goblynkyng8666]

The proudest moment of my life was when my child compared me favorably to Iroh. There is no better example of being a role model than Iroh and when my own child said I'm like him.....I literally cried.

[@coelacanthtrench7]

that is the most wholesome thing that I have read this morning

[@clintelkins9630]

Ooooh yeah toy got the brownie points

[@lasercraft32]

Oh wow... that's such high praise!

[@josephthayer4970]

Aww man. I teared up a little bit reading this. I too use iroh as a measurable way tell to someones integrity.❤

[@onoxciametro5686]

Wow that is an honor ❤❤

[@Allchack]

"Be the person uncle Iroh would want you to become" was something a friend told me once jokingly. Its been my Go-To motivational sentence since 2019 and I improved mentally, physically and as a person overall since im thinking that way. Uncle Iroh and Whitebeard are the true representations of what real masculinity should be. Best written characters of our time

[@DeathAngelSuki]

I hope you don't mind me borrowing that quote, that's actually amazing

[@joellavy8982]

i love seeing whitebeard thrown into this, because you are absolutely right. In the small amount of content he was in, he was the most impactful, wonderful character in frame. He is in my top 3 one piece characters straight up!

[@DanielBro42]

thank you for this love it I had something similar for myself, but with Robert [Denzel w] from equalizer - "when facing a challenging situation, ask yourself, what would Robert Mccall do?"

[@kaybee328]

​@@joellavy8982 me too!!

[@jacobwiren8142]

Well shit... that's probably the best advice/catchphrase I've ever heard.

[@wafflinxes5224]

Iroh isn't just peak masculinity, he's a peak human being

[@benitoharrycollmann132]

I have always thought that Iroh's love of tea is symbolic of his balance with all the elements. Tea leaves grow from the earth, are then placed in water that needs to be boiled by fire, and fire cannot be created without fanning it with air. Perfect harmony

[@fatemad4012]

Wow very beautiful take

[@bluemassgamer17]

And just like tea, all four nations drinks tea.

[@dr2696]

also, his favorite tea is jasmine, which requires patience and perfect timing as the window of a perfect brew is the shortest of all teas.

[@jahdjajbdj731]

hmmmm. never thought like that. Thats interesting.

[@inextinguishablemoltenblooded]

Pleasant observation

[@herobrineapril8451]

he shows us what it means to be a well rounded human, not just a man.

[@master_samwise]

Well of course, but Iroh is a man. Men can't exactly teach women what it means to be a woman.

[@herobrineapril8451]

@@master_samwise the problem is you talk about base qualities that can be core to what it is to be a good and well rounded person, regardless of gender. Iroh's values could easily apply to values women covet. Basically, calling it masculinity is unnecessary.

[@lolnaiej2033]

@@master_samwise This man (iroh) can teach women how to be a good h u m a n. Iroh never pushed the idea of masculinity in the first place lol

[@master_samwise]

@@herobrineapril8451 Is there a virtue that isn't desirable for both genders? I can't think of one. Iroh isn't a pinnacle of masculinity because he has traits women don't, but because he has grown beyond the vices and faults so common in immature men. That's the point I tried to make.

[@herobrineapril8451]

@@master_samwise ah, though maybe more establishment on what it means to be a immature man how thats different from immature girl in the video would be cool but then again this is youtube so eh

[@josephnichols5308]

Both Iroh and Aragorn are most definitely the best examples of masculinity

[@abacusite]

Nah. The best example is Waymond from Everything Everywhere All at Once. Everyone keeps putting him down and ridiculing him but he never wavers from his principles. He never forces anyone to comply, and never pushes anyone down to bring himself up. He wins not by fighting but by trying to understand and show compassion to everyone even those who seem the least deserving. Dude averts the apocalypse with kindness.

[@Anon1gh3]

@@abacusite Most defining masculine characters in fiction tier list: S) Shrek (went through love like no other - and then gave it all up for the greater good [shrek4]) A) Guts (went through hell like no other) B) Aragorn (saved his kingdom) C) Leonidas (saved his nation) D) Conan the Barbarian (fought for his tribe) F) Frank Castle (fought for his family)

[@inspectorbananas8157]

​@@abacusiteagreed that waymond is up there, but iroh and aragorn are absolutely also at the top of the list

[@nabbithero54]

@@abacusite Yeah but Jesus did it better tbh

[@jacobnugent8159]

@@nabbithero54well yeah, I mean, he is God

[@devonmarr9872]

Can we appreciate that the show has been off air for 15 years but a 20 minute video can cone out about a side character analysis and it gets almost 2 mil views?

[@HauntingSpectre]

And still bring what are now probably grown men (and women) to tears when we all remember how hurt Iroh was, both by Zukos betrayal, and his loss of his son.

[@BoredTAK5000]

I love how when Toph attacks Iroh, Iroh doesn't fight back and just talks with her. Then when Toph gets attacked by Zuko and her feet get burned she forgives him just like how Iroh forgave her. Just a little detail that I thought I should share.

[@master_samwise]

Excellent point!

[@anothergamer112]

For an earthbender she's quite go-with-the-flow in terms of character at times

[@sintanan469]

@Brandon K Toph is an earthbender first and foremost with a grasp on the airbender way of life. This is why she was able to teach Aang for she understood his way of looking at things.

[@erikburzinski8248]

@@master_samwise he is not the principles of masculinity he is the principles of humanity if you want the principles of masculinity escanor is who you are looking for

[@NotimetoVero]

@@erikburzinski8248 I would rather this version of “masculinity” than the one brewing online at the moment.

[@crossedroses4827]

I looked up to Iroh (even as a girl) because what he said never felt forced or preachy. Everything held weight and meaning even if it didn’t make sense to those around him. He was always aggressively himself in the best way and only ever wanted himself and others to be happy. 10/10 best character ever written.

[@andrewhinson4323]

Iroh couldnt tell you what its like to be a young woman. But he could tell you what its like to be a wise and good-seeking person.

[@UltaFlame]

And by following that example, of trying to be your best, most true-to-you version of yourself... well, man or woman, you'll be a good person

[@rebbeccahoneycutt7941]

I always loved his talk with Toph it resonated deeply with me as a young person. Uncle Iroh was one of my favorite characters!

[@WildHorizon]

Nah man I totally agree and I’m a girl too. He was the father figure I needed. I know it’s stupid to look up to tv characters, and at some point I realized just how stupid I was… but my grandfather and my father were violent, irrational, emotional borderline narcissists who were sexually abusing me- so it was either them or tv characters. He helped teach me empathy, understanding, and compassion… before I even got into watching videos like these.. I was fully aware that I would 100% be a completely different person than I am right now without this show. I still follow all the things I learned from this show. I try my hardest to make sure I treat all life as sacred- even bugs. I still have a long ways to go- but I’ve walked a long ways down the road to patience. I always try to be conscious of my tone and not let my pride get the best of me- especially when I know more about something than someone else. It taught me to be humble and respect others because you never know what they’ve been through. But it also taught me that you don’t get to use your sh*tty past to excuse you being a bad person- like my male role models did. Like I said, I wouldn’t be the person I am today if I hadn’t been introduced to those ideas from outside sources and it really helped me move towards a much better future for myself.

[@TheCompleteMental]

And honestly, no good aspect of masculinity should be obstructed whether you're a man or not

[@R0GU351GN4L]

I am a man and I love flowers, just because I'm a man, why can I not admire the beautiful things nature provides us? I remember telling a girl once I'd be over the moon if somebody bought me flowers, I said "I've never understood why only women and girls receive flowers, as though men can't appreciate the beauty in them."

[@kkrup5395]

You don't love flowers if you buy cut flowers. If you grow them that's other story. Cut flowers aren't viewed as a present for a man because they aren't useful in any real way, they may bring you joy for a moment or two, but this is emotions, and masculine man are about rationality over emotions.

[@williamcharnley5558]

Makes sense to me that enjoying flowers is nurturing, and that Uncle Iroh is nurturing, hell he saves that moon flower, and he must know something of herbology to make sure legendary tea. I would say understanding and appreciating the flora of the world around you is the beautiful part of having the skills to survive in a complicated natural environment. Someone who appreciates or knows flowers might also extend themselves to the practical elements of knowing which berries or mushrooms are poisonous, or why wild flowers are wilting in season, due to a problem with local bee colonies or perhaps a sickness or pollution in the soil. So I think that enjoying flowers is just an upshot of an interest in extremely practical areas. Hell, knowing how to grow your own tea leaves or your own food? That’s basically the most practical thing you can possibly do. So if you enjoy some flowers at the same time? Go for it. Uncle Iroh would.

[@rosy0214]

As girl, if a guy told me this, he would look 10 times more attractive to me. I admire and appreciate guys who are in touch with their feminine side and don't think that makes them look week. I think that *that* , is a true sing of maturity and strength.

[@plantshaper691]

@@rosy0214 There is no feminine side and men shouldn't be in touch with it. Liking flowers, and not being embarrassed to do so because your a man already shows masculinity by being authentic and also strong willed into not buying the idea that flowers are for women and whatever society tells us.

[@rosy0214]

@@plantshaper691 The femininity and masculinity I'm taking about is a social constructs that was made by society, which I used to explain my thought process. Whether femininity and masculinity are an actual thing or not is a completely different subject of it's own. Not to mention you can't say femininity dosen't exist and in the same breath compliment masculinity as if it exists then. Femininity/Masculinity either exists or it doesn't.

[@alfonsoleonsantiago7004]

"Two different instruments playing the same note will sound different" Simple but effective

[@brothers_of_nod]

If everyone had their own Uncle Iroh, the world would be a much better place.

[@handsfortoothpicks]

if there is no uncle iroh, become the uncle iroh

[@jamesanderson5465]

Be the Uncle Iroh you wish you had when you had.

[@justvibin3646]

If there were tat many uncle iroh's, the world would be a better place!

[@gaobeardutch5595]

I had one until yesterday night as my grandfather died of old age surrounded by the ones he loved. I always viewed him as my very own uncle Iroh as they are very alike, and I had a similar relationship with him as Iroh and Zuko had. Despite all of the setbacks and bad things happening in his early life which would lead most down the wrong path, he turned out to be strong, wise, loving, selfless, disciplined, humorous, accepting, caring and every other virtue discussed in this video. He is the only man ever that made me feel small, in a good way. It’s devastating having lost him but I am so thankful for just being that lucky to have had such an incredible person in my life. He has shown me what it takes to become a great man and I will live to honor his example. I agree and wish everyone such a person in their lives. This video hits like a truck, see you on the other side giant🕊️

[@robertthepunchwizard5964]

Not everyone can have a personal Iroh but we all have this one, the one we all share, and I will never take his what he has taught me foe granted

[@bumblebeemer]

"Masculinity is not the opposite of femininity. But rather, they are the opposite of boyish immaturity." 00:53 Not even a minute in, and already gold. Damn. Wise words, fam.

[@ParanormalEncyclopedia]

I've tried to articulate this idea more then once and yeah he does it far better.

[@Cody-5501]

The two instruments line is also a banger

[@andrewhinson4323]

It is the other half of femininity. But strength of character is the height of both. Just like he said, same note, different instrument.

[@zedarkenigma]

It reminds me of Iroh’s own wisdom about pride and shame.

[@dan_asd]

the real iroh was the youtuber

[@imperialofficerremusblackw8452]

I feel Iroh mourning his son is an example of an often misunderstood trait of masculinity. A man doesn't ignore emotional pain, but instead temporarily sets it aside when there is still a job to be done. After the work is done and he may rest, a proper man will easily shed a tear in private.

[@OfficialArmyman]

I agree. However, I still believe it’s better to be open and honest about your emotions. Don’t let them bottle up for too long. You have to let it out eventually.

[@McDonaldsCalifornia]

Doesn't have to be in private. As you said it is about the right circumstances. Can be with people or alone

[@trixter9318]

remember, "balance"

[@aracelylopezpsyd5794]

Yessss!! Biggest misconception about masculinity is the idea that men can’t express grief & other vulnerable emotions. In reality, it’s other people’s discomfort with these emotions that forces men to hide them. Even as a Mexican woman, I get shit because I don’t hamper my emotions & I come from a culture where I was taught to be “strong” & always just keep pushing forward. As I grew, I learned that way of existing was merely survival, most of us are just surviving. But survival has its place & is sometimes necessary. The problem arises when we move on past situations where we have the opportunity to live authentically & thrive. In order to get there, we must learned to reconnect with our genuine emotions & face them no matter how uncomfortable they are but especially when others try to hamper our emotions because of their own discomfort with authenticity. Being human is experiencing pain & suffering. Our emotions cannot destroy us as long as we learn to accept them & learn from what they teach us because our emotions are essentially our bodies way of communicating crucial information to us. Though it’s uncomfortable to sit with vulnerability, we actually make more problems for ourselves when we don’t take the time to understand the message. We are in a better position to act in ways that align with our authentic selves when we learn to sit with discomfort & pay attention, follow our intuition…but it takes practice to get there.

[@OfficialArmyman]

@@aracelylopezpsyd5794 You're damn right.

[@Walrusapiller]

One thing I'd like to add about Iroh's love of tea - It also represents his humility, mastering a craft and putting that craft at the service of others.

[@humblebumble2448]

guess you could call it **Humili-tea**

[@AGayTwitterArtist]

It occurs to me. Tea, in the avatar universe is a culmination of traits from all types of bending. All things come together to make something to be enjoyed. Air - Tea is an Aromatic Drink, part of the experience is the ability to smell the fragrance of the leaf's. Water - The thing that gives life and enables the flavor Fire - the Source needed to bring out the powerful taste, to heat the water. Earth - The Clay of the Pottery and the thing that gave birth to the Tea leaf's. All things working together to create something entirely unique

[@bligabliga]

Love your answer, this couldve easily been written into the scene where Iroh explains the balance between nations but keeping it subtle and just showing everyone enjoying tea has made more of an impact to me. You blew my mind today.

[@alexzero3736]

Air does nothing with Aromatic things, it is still a liquid, water.

[@AGayTwitterArtist]

@@alexzero3736 I'm sorry but unless you inhale water, and are a freak of nature. The major transmission method for smell is the air. The same way the water is the transmission vector for the flavor of the leafs The avatar universe isn't concerned with the exact science of things. It's just understood that all the Elements are involved in the experience of drinking tea.

[@AGayTwitterArtist]

Thus why Iroh isn't chills the fuck out and isn't an elemental supremacist. His beloved tea would not exist were it not for the combination of the core concepts of their world lmao.

[@bligabliga]

@@alexzero3736 air is made up of different gasses and water vapor makes up a small percentage. Density plays the part of carrying less dense particles through the gas mixture which eventually reach our nose.

[@vulcanhumor]

"Masculinity is not the opposite of femininity, but rather it's the opposite of boyish immaturity." That is AMAZING. I am definitely using that line in the future. It annoys me so much how some people act like men and women are different species. We're not. We have far more commonalities than differences, and even in our differences we are not "opposites" of one another...we simply exhibit the same characteristics in slightly different ways.

[@JWeac_.]

Two things can exist at once from statistics, evolution, our differences in anatomy, and behavioral traits, and how we interact with eachother definitely proves we are polar opposites in many aspects while also being very similar in many aspects there is no more than the other it is just balance, like everything in the universe is so yes do I agree with you, I do, do i think femininity and masculinity is real, yes I do, not saying women or man cant and dont Express both femininity and masculinity but one definitely posses more than the other and vice versa just how nature made us

[@Dankboi68]

Picture of Adachi that says true

[@Merlincat007]

@@JWeac_. Gender is a construct.

[@cat-le1hf]

@@JWeac_. It is important to remember that we are not bound by our nature. Our defining characteristic as humans is our potential to change. Limiting yourself to what is expected of you makes your brittle and inflexible: easy to break and manipulate.

[@jellymatsuryuka6853]

We're from the same species, why live trying to find differences? Aren't differences what makes us all unique?

[@nathancarabajal8271]

Iroh was pretty much everything someone might need at the time. He was a father figure, mentor and a friend. When everyone came across him it was easy to talk with him and be in his presence without wanting to potentially hurt or kill him

[@YOSSARIAN313]

Also an unrepentant fascist war criminal.

[@Yuh_zhimmy]

@@YOSSARIAN313 you say this like he’s a real person that did horrible shit 🤦🏾‍♂️ Not everyone instantly thinks of him in his prime.

[@YOSSARIAN313]

@@Yuh_zhimmy empathizing with iroh is like empathizing with a nazi general

[@Yuh_zhimmy]

@@YOSSARIAN313 no it ain’t nga 💀 and no one is saying what he did was right. The important thing is that HE knows what he did was bad, and is willing to change zuko so that he doesn’t fall into the same path. Also, zuko is a literal child who (compared to everyone else in his family) is a lot more redeemable. Azula is kind of just a psychopath, but that is due to her basically being a tool to ozai. I don’t feel bad for her though.

[@YOSSARIAN313]

@@Yuh_zhimmy knowing what he did was bad doesnt unmurder the women and children he mass murdered

[@faruquekhan3353]

Iroh had the most badass moment in the story. When he gets locked up, and then he starts working out like crazy. And after he gets out he is so buffed to me that was just pure badass.

[@atraxuswraithe6031]

My Grandpa was, for me, a real life version of Iroh. Grandpa was a 6’4” retired police officer who resigned out of disgust for the corruption in the police in the 1960s and 1970s. He loved his family, jazz and blues music, crosswords, cartoons, sci fi, and fishing. He meant the world to me, and after my parents separated when I was 20, Grandpa taught me more about being a man than my narcissistic sociopath of a father ever did. Grandpa passed away in November of 2018, but I try to live in a way that would make him proud every day. Iroh and Grandpa are extremely similar in temperament, kindness, patience and good humour, and every time I watch A:TLA or a video about Iroh like this one, I think on the men in my life who taught me everything: Iroh and my Grandpa.

[@legendarymarston9174]

I wish you luck brother. I bet your grandpa is happy that you're at least trying to be better.

[@thechemistamvs5033]

Legendary

[@fabricioazevedo2361]

Thank you for sharing your history.

[@joshcoward437]

This is why having a strong, kind, male role model is so damn important. And if you didn't have one, remember you can BE one for someone else.

[@kempachikaotic]

A police officer that resigned to cops bc he saw the endless corruption and said: "No I won´t behave like these animals nor will I help them" What a true golden man, if everyone where half as responsible and a man as your grandfather, we would have a paradise long time ago. Thanks for sharing my man.

[@abusedumpster8882]

Something that gets overlooked a lot is that Iroh *failed* in order to get to where he is. He had to make mistakes and learn from those failures to grow. He isn’t just naturally wise; he wasn’t always the perfect description of positive masculinity. He had to learn throughout his whole life. We can learn from him, we can take the lessons he taught us and try to live like him, but we won’t get there until we fail, time and time again, and grow like him.

[@clgr1323]

Even a bigger Irohny. He failed by being quite successful, he was the first , and so far only, general in history to breach the massive mofoking walls and invade Ba Zing Se, and maybe could have conquered it if he didn't retreat after his son's death. The facts never change, what changes is the perception of them. His biggest success became a failure in his eyes when he felt in his own soul the pain of war and opened his eyes to what he was really doing, a massive, pointless slaughter. He became humble thanks to grief.

[@jordanestes1997]

​@@clgr1323 this comment section is great, your guys comments are 🔥

[@jeohranalfhir8366]

Also I feel there's something missing in the part about love. All of the qualities mentioned before would make an amazing man, like an Alexander the Great kind of archetype, but what gives purpose to all of these abilities is to use them to better the world for others. Of course, a wise person would generally have an understanding of others and should therefore have a sense of empathy, but I feel that's a note that was missing. But yeah I feel that kinda complements what you said, since he had to suffer loss to understand the importance of love.

[@sketchflix6425]

He is the product of Post Traumatic Growth

[@projectx7453]

@@clgr1323I love your comment.

[@sagesemadeni4024]

Authentic masculinity is rare in our society nowadays. Most people who shout about it are overgrown boys with no real-life experience. Be a father to all children. Be a devoted husband. Rise to your duties. It's seriously not as difficult as it sounds.

[@lemax6865]

Authentic femininity has become equally rare... And for a similar reason. A cult of immaturity that places feeling good about yourself in the immediate moment above all else, regardless of long-term consequence. Today's North American culture cannot abide growth. Worse, when it comes to relationships, the problem is self-perpetuating: how can I be expected to be a father to all children, when I'm not allowed to be a father to my own? How can I reasonably be expected to be a devoted husband, when my partner is not expected to be a devoted wife? Who wants to rise to their duties, when everyone else constantly shirks theirs and are praised for it? Furthermore, trying to live up to these principles in absence of support is the surest way to find yourself in an abusive relationship. Men must do their part, women must do theirs, we must work together and most importantly, we must encourage this mindset, not belittle it and call it "antiquated" every time it's brought up.

[@aracelylopezpsyd5794]

It’s not that the concepts are difficult, they’re indeed the simplest way to live, but it is difficult to live in such a manner in a world where the sociocultural pressures we all face tend to look down on authenticity in favor of conformity. Being authentic becomes difficult in a world where few are indeed authentic. In fact, authenticity invites scorn & shame from others. This is because people instinctively feel a need to dampen or challenge such ways of being because it inherently causes them discomfort by forcing them to question their thinking, behavior, & entire sense of who they are - people also inherently push back against change & anything that threatens their existing beliefs.

[@aracelylopezpsyd5794]

Even in this simple cartoon, you can see several examples where a character like Iroh “triggers” the scorn & rage of others simply by his ability to exist authentically. As a psychologist, I love both Iroh & Zuko because they truly reflect real struggles that real people experience. Zuko is a great example of the potential of all young men, which can be hampered or developed according to their influences. I enjoy working with teenage males who have been incarcerated, or on probation. Even for an angry young man who may be refusing to change & trusts no one, just ONE solid adult can make all the difference in their life.

[@devonmarr9872]

Iroh throwing down and yelling at Zhao to not kill the spirit hits you as being a real threat because Iroh has NEVER spoken or acted like that leading up to this moment. It makes times Iroh acts out of his typical charachter as times to pay attention because he doesnt do anything just to do it but has true intent and purpose to accomplish his goals. He by all rights is the Firelord but is happy and content just working at a tea shop and is more excited to own his own tea shop than be the essential ruler of the most powerful nation of the world.

[@marcovazquez5240]

Yeah and then he dropped 5 fire benders in mere seconds to get to the coward zhao

[@aracelylopezpsyd5794]

This is true strength & wisdom. People who are patient, wise & selective with their rage are going to be more effective because people will instinctively understand that these are moments to listen & be taken seriously :-)

[@jacobblomquist5288]

I always say that humility is not thinking less of yourself, it is thinking of yourself less.

[@darthtyranous4514]

@@bullymaguire9987 yes less as in value, not time

[@dybiosol]

​@@bullymaguire9987 Essentially the same in realising that not everything is about you, but rather how you are with others around you

[@ozgho09]

Humility is about having a true understanding of ones own worth. Seeing ourselves as we are, not as we wish or think we were. Gaining humility made me value myself more, not less.

[@jellymatsuryuka6853]

@@bullymaguire9987 no, he means that you should know your actual place, regardless if you're higher or smaller when it comes to being a good person, neither should you shame yourself without reason nor should you say you're better than you are.

[@heyzeuscreestow9394]

Bravo

[@austino545]

Iroh is not comic relief for the audience, he is comic relief for the characters. And that is something to admire.

[@blueshell2484]

He is comic relief for everyone even the characters around him okay

[@frinzerevan5655]

@@blueshell2484 Did you just call The DRAGON of the fuking west a comic relief ?

[@blueshell2484]

@@frinzerevan5655mayhaps

[@svenabel2987]

You know the reuniting of Iroh and Zuko is such a powerful scene when you see literally one second of it the background footage and you begin to tear up

[@lykanaslupus]

Out of all the characters in fiction, Iroh is the one character I would want to meet the most. Just a friendly conversation over a nice cup of tea.

[@omniscience9631]

Powerful but humble. Calm but with a raging fire inside him A steel body capable of dealing deadly blows, but also of giving the warmest hug A true warrior with the wisdom of a sage. An experienced soul with the playfulness and curiosity of a child He truly is the pinnacle of masculinity.

[@musashi542]

according to who ?

[@omniscience9631]

@@musashi542 not you.

[@musashi542]

@@omniscience9631 nice one "man"

[@darknightorc3678]

@@musashi542me. according to me. i have decided.

[@musashi542]

@@darknightorc3678 sure thing Dark night orc

[@Dreagostini]

I just realised in parallel to Iroh's journey, his beard grows. In the first season, the loyal uncle, mentor and still fire nation general has a short and well trimmed beard. But during season two, while his journey through the earth kingdom, it steadily grows. Until he has his magnificent full beard. I mean, yes, Zuko's hair grows too, but it's more chaotic, with more harsh shifts, also reflecting the character.

[@jamesanderson5465]

Zuko's beard grows more chaotic because his mind is more chaotic doesn't know who he wants to be.

[@triPocoPi9576]

I like that

[@jskrilla989]

he cuts it after he reunites with the whit lotus. another good lesson to take pride in your appearance. he obviosly is comfortable with a beard but after not hiding in the earth kingdom he wants it to look his way

[@Dreagostini]

@@jskrilla989 You're totally right. Could also be seen as the end of the transformation. With the appearence and the experience now merging into one, concluding the person "looks the same" but has a different worldview in any, some or all aspects. Plus, I guess the hair- and beardstyle are also what he identifies as. A citizen of the fire nation, despite all the wrongs the fire nation did. If you're willing to ammend and to do not just better, but right for all the peoples, you should have the option to do it.

[@I_Dislike_YouTube_Handles]

As someone who came from an abusive family, I could feel myself getting poisoned by their daily beatings, whenever I feel I’m gonna stoop to the same level as them, becoming “just like the family” I think of Iroh, and he gives me hope that I can endure, and protect my masculinity from despair. The show’s writers truly made one of the best characters in fiction.

[@susanstorm7910]

Proud of you 👏🏾 I had a similar life, so we gotta be positive masculinity bearers like Iroh

[@CYBER_FunkER]

I feel very fortunate as a kid to have watched this show when it was airing originally. Even back then, I knew Uncle Iroh was the kind of man I wanted to be, and being 30 years of age now, I can say to my younger self, you made a great choice for a role model.

[@philcollins1613]

I have always said that masculinity is the opposite of being a boy, and not a woman. To hear someone else say it genuinely makes me so happy that I'm not alone.

[@michaelt.5672]

And that is why "toxic masculinity" is such a misnomer; It describes men who's characters never grew beyond boyhood, and are covering that lack over.

[@philcollins1613]

@@michaelt.5672 exactly.

[@MerlinTheCommenter]

@@michaelt.5672”toxic masculinity” used to mean something. Now it’s just a shame tactic to socially engineer people to not criticize content they find repugnant. It means almost nothing anymore, due to abuse and overuse.

[@williamnguyen4048]

@@michaelt.5672 Correct

[@Ryan15beast]

@@michaelt.5672see but that’s not masculinity. Which is why I say “Toxic masculinity” isn’t real. Why? Because it’s immaturity and not real masculinity

[@VenomVsTRex]

One word to describe Iroh? Iroh is Everything. Iroh is the role-model that every child, boys and girls, needs in their life.

[@saketbakshi4235]

Who is Iroh? For the blind, He is the vision. For the hungry, He is the chef. For the thirsty, He is the water. If Iroh thinks, I agree. If Iroh speaks, I’m listening. If Iroh has one fan, it is me. If Iroh has no fans, I don’t exist.

[@zackfnaf7739]

@@saketbakshi4235 fr

[@jww0007]

womanizer

[@jundullah9869]

​@@saketbakshi4235Blud thinks he's God calm down man he is a fictional character, and i say this as a big fan of Iroh's character and i think he is on the Hall of Fame of the best well-written characters ever made by Man, but let's not put him on such a high pedestal

[@saketbakshi4235]

@@jundullah9869 it's a joke, this is actually a copypasta of this CS player Hooxi where we overglorify him

[@calvinkennedy2466]

"Loyalty is not blind obedience or acceptence. It is the adherence to one's duty to another" (:

[@joshuaspeer2503]

Two instruments playing the same note will sound different. Very poetic and beautiful

[@savannahlawson2869]

11:13 "He doesn't shame the shop owner for not knowing where to place the moon flower" My anger has been peaking lately, the littlest and biggest mistakes that I see in a stranger or even a coworker, friend, or family member have put me on edge. There's more to it than is worth sharing in a KZbin comment section, but this part was really grounding for me. Uncle Iroh is probably my favorite character in the show thank you for making such a thoughtful video about healthy masculinity

[@ritwik1410]

i resonated with this a lot. idk or care where your anger comes from bc i know it does not define you. i wish you great success in your journey to growth

[@wattsnottaken1]

“The moon flower likes partial shade” or something like that

[@Dan_Gerous1]

I feel this. It used to be a lot worse, but I’ve learned to be less rigid. I’m still working on it. Wish you all the best.

[@Marcus-gw4bb]

I can imagine Iroh being like, "So much anger.. here have some tea to soothe your troubled mind." XD

[@zackfnaf7739]

Probably?!?!?!?!?!

[@nightfurylastshadow]

I love when he said that femininity is not the opposite masculinity. ❤ and that boyish/childish is the opposite.

[@attilamert6973]

Ofc you liked that😂😂😂😂😂 you arrogant foid its all nonsense

[@LisZam1463]

This is so true! Making good choices in life, whatever it is what you say, think, do etc is what make you womanly/manly

[@zeegonzerg8436]

I strongly agree to that as well

[@investornabil8825]

It’s totally wrong tho. He is a typical beta. Masculinity is opposite of femininity. Also you can write about a female character without being a girl. The creator of this video is the typical beta who doesn’t think for himself.

[@mrmanju6989]

masculine and feminine ARE opposites. They are COMPLEMENTARY. The theme of complementary opposites exists in all nature and has been revered by easterners for 1000s of years. That little dot inside the yang is the amount of yin a man should have and vice versa. They work together BECAUSE they are opposites. What we do not need is a crude Rebis or Baphomet androgynous god idol, which is what modern society is trying to force

[@addmichael_]

I believe Iroh is also the embodiment of enlightenment. He is the pinnacle of how our minds can expand when we truly believe that we are beyond this world.

[@cajg1988]

I recently lost my dad. There was so much he didn't teach me, but I feel this video was a lesson in itself that many young and older men can aspire towards. To the naysayers who say it's just a show...thats beyond the point. The aspiration to be a better man and the journey to get there is the most amazing thing. Thanks for this video man. Subscribed instantly.

[@laiorwyn]

It's no mistake that people love Iroh. He is one of the best characters in the animated world.

[@lucaswon9751]

One of the best characters just in general!

[@devonmarr9872]

When he sings leaves on the vine I cry everytime. Here is why: The voice actor passed shortly later amd was a war veteran The song is about Iroh's son who died because of Iroh's military ambitions. Something he despises now. Iroh is the essentially perfect mentor who stays strong in the face of all adversity. Him breaking down and crying pierces you to the core as this rock of wisdom and support has Noone to uplift him or truly comfort him over the pain he still has with the loss of his only son.

[@darrionsjoquist9475]

Pride is not the opposite of shame, but it’s source. True humility is the only antidote.

[@alexzero3736]

That sounds nice. But actual source of shame is your brain. It is like feel of guilt before yourself.

[@jellymatsuryuka6853]

@@alexzero3736 you can't be guilty unless you first think less of yourself because of what you are or what you did, and to lose something you need to have it first. This logic applies to self esteem, if you're prideful and do something that proves you're not what you thought, you're probably gonna feel shame for not being so good.

[@darrionsjoquist9475]

@@alexzero3736 The brain is an organ that facilitates cognition, it’s not the ‘source’ of any emotion inherently but a vector through which to process it. If my nephew or girlfriend do something kind for me and it brings me joy then their ‘hands’ or ‘brains’ are not the source of my joy. Our relationship combined with their actions would be the ‘source’ and incorporating humility into my identity allows me to feel gratitude rather than vanity. Emotions are a byproduct of context and identity; our brains are kaleidoscopes that allow us to dynamically interpret these to discover if the ‘source’ is external or internal. External ‘sources’ are easy to identify. Only the quiet mind, the humble mind however can readily see internal conflicts that have to do with things like expectations or trauma because it can quiet the Ego and determine the conflict that causes distress and prevent negative emotional feedback loops like Guilt & Repression or Pride & Shame or Anger & Denial.

[@Babjengi]

I wish more people would get to see your video. In an age where popular male role models are brutish, selfish, greedy, and violent, more needs to be done to demonstrate a responsible, kind masculinity. I also really appreciate how you reframe masculinity as something that isn't even in opposition to femininity as mentioned by the other comments. So much of this is taught as zero sum, and I want to just commend you on this excellent video essay. Thank you

[@darius8644]

this is andrew tate for sane people

[@outcry27]

Andrew Tate is a less sane version of Season 1 Zuko.

[@cloudwarrior1921]

Iroh’s humility stands out the most to me. A decorated general/war hero and one of the best benders in the fire nation. Yet never feels the need to brag or even defend himself when other characters attack his competency. He is content with being seen as just a harmless old man and uses his other attributes to navigate situations as they arise with wisdom and patience.

[@Tula-cs1ef]

My grandfather used to say if you need to tell people how good you are, you aren't anywhere near that good.

[@victory8928]

He also as we can see uses that perspective of him to help him. Like when he escaped the Fire Nation prison by pretending to be weak old man all the while bulking up so that he could escape when the fire benders can’t bend

[@acidrien]

The saddest moment for me in ATLA was when iroh had his son’s birthday dinner. When you see someone as composed, funny and joyous as iroh, it breaks your heart to see him cry… Edit: sorry for making people cry :’ )

[@Merlodica]

Sadder still, it was the last episode voiced by Irohs original VA Mako.

[@ryanthoms]

Leaves from the vine… falling so slow… like fragile tiny shells, drifting in the foam… makes me tear up just thinking about it

[@austinkersey2445]

​@@Merlodica For even more pain, Lu Ten's portrait is based on old pictures of Mako Iwamatsu as a young man. Mako also performed "The Tale of Iroh" while he knew he was going to die in a matter of weeks from cancer. My guess is that some of those tears Iroh shed were real. I am sad now.

[@Fionor01]

Even thinking about that scene almost makes me cry.

[@soggycracker5934]

It's okay. Sometimes tears are good. Yes, I was misting up as I typed this.

[@hacim04]

"Humilty is not thinking less of one's self, but thinking of one's self less" - one of my favorite quotes by CS Lewis. Uncle Iroh embodies this so well.

[@DarthInsomnis]

Iroh has got to be one of my favorite characters in all of fiction. Such an amazing character.

[@theopkingdom3433]

Excellent. My only addition is that Iron shows humility by accepting his defeat at Ba Sing Se where he lost Lu Ten. He didn't rage about it- he accepted that he was bested. This defeat is brought up to him repeatedly by other fire nation generals who see him as a failure. Iroh's work to defend Ba Sing Se at the end is the redemption arc of Iroh's failure.

[@JohrnyReport]

Not quite. They see him as weak, because Ba Sing Se was basically already on its knees, but the death of his Son took any will out of him to finish the job.

[@kidgameerboy9932]

@@JohrnyReport true, but it also does become his redemption and in a sense forgiving the city that took away his son. Without that lose we would probably see general iroh instead of a iroh who found content in the fires of life.

[@nicmagtaan1132]

He would rather fall back and face humiliation rather than pushing for a phyrric victory, he pushed towards the walls

[@jellymatsuryuka6853]

His redemption was achieved the moment he grew as a person after the battle.

[@misfits9294]

I think Katara on the pinnacle of feminity would be incredible. She embodies all the trappings of "the girl" of the team...but that's what makes her STRONG. She's kind, compassionate, motherly, and instead of being treated like those traits are weak, or gives her the sideline, it's the source of her greatest strength. She cares so deeply for others, she will do anything to protect them and seeks righteousness, while being nurturing and caring and guiding those around her, most seen in her training Aang. She's an incredible character, and I think would fit the video idea better than Toph, who is also strong, but in a different (more stereotypically masculine) way.

[@cockitchy8373]

yes exactly! katara is such a great character because she shows you can be strong and powerful in your femininity without being masculine. as women we are usually told our feminine traits are weak and we are pushed to act masculine to be taken seriously, but katara never gave into that and showed how powerful femininity can be

[@jasperzanovich2504]

That was Thoph's main issue. She acts outwardly strong cause she feels like she needs to prove her strength. That stems mostly from her father treating her like a fragile bird, locking her up in an attempt to protect her. There is an episode dedicated to how she feels she needs to be radically independant.

[@baldshmeagle]

ember island players

[@misfits9294]

@@jasperzanovich2504 Yep! Poor gal was overcompensating, trying to prove to herself and others (especially her parents) she WAS strong and capable. And she is! But it wasn't the healthiest way to go about.

[@Emperor-Quill]

Great points made! However I'd like to mention a key idea of Toph bearing a remarkably feminine trait that I see often being overlooked. That being her taking back her own autonomy of herself and her choices, as well as the solidarity she forms with Katara for their shared experience of carrying the weight of society's expectations. Toph grew up in a place that made every decision for her, under the thumb of people who decided that they know her better than she does herself, and enforced that belief by controlling what she did, where she could go, and who could be around her. She had absolutely no rights to make her own choices, so when she expresses herself, she does so with no hesitation. Tales of Ba Sing Se is one of my favorite episodes because it explores more of her character, and how even though Toph knows who she is and is happy about it, she still feels sadness over knowing that others will judge her for her confidence. Toph's character is centered around the trait of self-authenticity. The ability to accept who you are and choosing to live true to yourself, despite the world around you trying to tell you how to be.

[@jsull81]

"Pride is not the opposite of shame, but its source. True humility is the only antidote to shame." -Uncle Iroh A truly wise & humble human. He could have easily went down a path of hate-filled & bloody vengeance. But luckily he had the strength to deal with his grief & rage in a healthier way by facing it head on, and learning how to forgive himself & better understand his former enemies, so he could eventually move on & grow from it all 🥲 Thanks for making this, I always love when my favorite tea loving mentor gets his due : )

[@quangtuantran7181]

Uncle Iroh is everything I strive to be, a true man, not because of superficial things like being "manly", but because he was an amazing person who cares for others, and who everyone respects. There s a reason why many great minds like Nietzsche, Einstein, Plato, etc etc, considered that the greatness of a man is how he affects others, and how others see him. You dont have to become the greatest man, but should always strive for greatness.

[@morbogarnik92]

I think it's important to note HOW Iroh became wise. He was a War Lord who no doubt took many innocent lives. - I think this important because it shows that people have to be wrong before they are right. It dramatically expresses that making mistakes is the foundation of growth. I think a lot of people disregard that part of him, and I think it's fundamental to what makes him such a profound character.

[@bludeuce3855]

honestly i think he regretted taking those innocent lives seeing how it made him no better than his younger brother Ozai

[@meoff7602]

It's why he has to be so forgiving of everyone around him. He has no right to judge others, because of what he did. Heck, he probably gave the order that killed his son. That's a heavy sin to live with.

[@BMikeAD]

I'd go one step further and say it takes the mistakes of an iroh for the next generation to learn to be more like who has become.

[@catalinsocol7766]

Beautiful writing

[@stevenneiman1554]

I don't think people "have to be wrong before they can be right", but it's definitely more important to grow than to start from a healthy place. You can't decide the past (at least, not anymore), but you can choose what lessons you draw from it and what you do to shape the future.

[@JohrnyReport]

The part were Iroh just strolls trough Bazing Se being Iroh just demonstrates how much of a good souled person he is. Most people would tend to despise the people that took your son, but the wise person he is, understanding war, the death of his son lead to sorrow so deep it made him appreciate life and widened his perspective immensly. Truly, one of the all greats in animation history.

[@LordViktor299]

Not only stroll through the city of his enemy but to help it's inhabitants out. The one that stands with me most is the man who tried to rob him. How little we would think of him yet Iroh takes the time to mentor him and show him how to be a better person. We should all strive to reach that point in our lives.

[@islandboy9381]

It should be noted that the type of war Iroh participated in was one of invading others and conquering them for no other reason than power/superiority of one side. He was on the aggressor's side and it may even be implied he took a lot of other people's children away as well with his actions but he considered it something to be proud of (like that letter he sent from Ba Sing Se). Losing his son humbled him to realize the consequences of his aggression, that he had no right to be angry at those he ruined first and tried to look outside of the superiority propaganda of his own country to wisen up and see there's more value in life that way being connected (learning by himself the whole theme in the show about all the nations being connected despite their arbitrary borders and different elements).

[@seriouslydiddy4397]

Iroh always reminded me of my grandpa, and I always thought it was because they were just both old, then I watched this video. Made me cry, miss that man everyday

[@zacmeadows2294]

"physical power without purpose is vanity" I 100% agree with this statement, I like to say "function over physique" myself. I don't care how big my biceps are, I'm more concerned how efficiently they do thier job.

[@ignis2638]

Humor and Stoicism actually go together a lot, it is about choosing your reaction instead of letting something linger. Someone may die in your life but you'll cry then and there but you won't let it rule your life, Iroh is similar to this, he cries and has a day to remember when his son was born and his life instead of his death, he wants to remember his son and all of the memories with him. But he still smiles and jokes even during his day of mourning, because if he lingers on sadness others will suffer because of him.

[@frds_skce]

Iroh is stoics confirmed.

[@jamessan3404]

Well depends how you define stoicism. But yes that is healthy approach to life

[@arbogast4950]

​@@jamessan3404 um well ahctchually 😂😂😂😂😂

[@heyzeuscreestow9394]

@@arbogast4950 ew

[@dialgamor1548]

I'd say Iroh is more Taoist than Stoic, which have similarities. Taoism is closer to Cynicism, which Stoicism came from. Makes sense for Taoist too with the Asian influence in the series.

[@izgoesoutdoors2426]

For me, Iroh’s positive masculinity shines through his range of masculine expression. Iroh exerts just and traditional masculine power through his bending and decisiveness. Simultaneously Iroh finds healthy ways to express painful emotions and work through trauma. In the HEARTWRENCHING “leaves from the vine” sequence, Iroh mourns his dead son through a delicate ritual, singing, and letting himself cry. It’s not the delicacy of the ritual, singing, nor crying alone that makes him masculine, but in having the conviction to genuinely express his grief.

[@NaughtyBlog]

This is genuinely one of the most healthy perspectives I've heard about masculinity.

[@DepressionKnowsBest]

Leaves from the vine, makes me cry every time

[@andre_601]

One scene I still like is how Jao (Shao?) has a visibly shocked expression when Iroh stops holding back. He is terified seeing a person he considered to be no match and just a lazy person, to actually be such a skilled fighter... And all because he ignored Iroh's warnings and final demand to leave the spirits alone.

[@henryblue925]

I think it's spelled Zhao

[@micolalau]

Yes this scene is sick. I will unleash on you tenfold. Let it go now! It's amazing

[@nathangonzalez9710]

I think it is more like 'o crap the dragon of the west is not dead' Remember Iroh is a legendary warrior who supposedly killed the last of the dragons. Also the fact he took down that whole squad in like a second would also make it anyone pause.

[@ManicMaidenASMR]

I’ve always loved Uncle Iroh as a kid and I’m crying realising I never had an Uncle Iroh in my life 🥹💔

[@3volution636]

Glad I found this video. I've dealt with plenty of idiots thinking lashing out is masculine, no. It makes you look weak, immature and unable to deal with your raw emotions. Also I learned something: "Masculinity is not the opposite of femininity, but rather the opposite of boyish immaturity". Thank you Master Samwise for sharing. You have earned one well deserved sub.

[@Bupkiss]

I am glad that while I was a young boy growing up, I had this character as one of my role models, even if I didn't know it at the time.

[@einkilian]

He is my rolemodel still and always will be. Its pretty much my life goal to be like he is to others

[@obliviongigan6360]

Facts man, I kinda wish boys nowadays would look at characters like Iroh instead of Andrew Tate.

[@attilamert6973]

​@@obliviongigan6360Andrew tate>

[@mr.waffles8739]

Iroh was an insanely well written character, and I absolutely always well up when he grabs Zuko for a hug and says he was never angry, he was worried that Zuko had lost his way

[@chartreusemire7131]

11/10 video brother. loved it

[@sanjayr]

As a man who has strived to carve out his own kinder, more nuanced version of masculinity, based on many characters, Iroh actually being one of them-thank you, thank you so much. I want to teach any potential sons and the men in my life in general about this kind of way of being. Being kind and thoughtful, being truly strong enough to resist violence as a response when attacked, so many of these messages are so incredibky vital to a world where males are truly proud of what masculinity represents. This video is everything. I'm crying watching this. Thank you again so much.

[@soggycracker5934]

I had good, strong, and kind men in my life growing up. Seeing Iroh for the first time, it simply felt right. Comfortable. It led me to an epiphany: I was lucky. So, so many were not. That saddened me, it made me feel guilty. It is rare a story can make me feel something so deep. So life changing.

[@jimmythd1043]

I’m one of those that you’d call unlucky. Yet I see myself as so blessed to have an uncle like Iroh.

[@fabricioazevedo2361]

I didn't. You were indeed lucky.

[@joshcoward437]

It's a sad moment when you realize that not everyone grew up with strong father figures or positive male role models. I remember figuring out the same thing in my early twenties and realizing just how damn fortunate I was to have not just one but several fantastic men to learn from. I sometimes try to think about that when I see young men making an ass of themselves. They may not have been as fortunate.

[@soggycracker5934]

@@fabricioazevedo2361 I'll be your kind, strong dad. Not your daddy though...

[@fabricioazevedo2361]

@@soggycracker5934 Thanks! But now I am a dad. I try to give to my son what I didn't have. But it was kind of you.

[@Roy-K]

I knew I was in for a masterpiece after hearing “two instruments playing the same note will still sound quite different”, well done man

[@GhostlyNomad130]

Incredible Quote. Gonna use that one for sure

[@arrowodd7695]

Iroh's journey is a great example of positive masculinity.

[@Agrovater]

“Two instruments play the same note” line was well said. ❤

[@kyrosd7940]

"Physical power without purpose is vanity, but when given direction, when needed, it unmistakably displays the masculinity, the dedication, fortitude, and perseverance of its holder." That was beautifully said.

[@mgradiant]

Also, let’s give credit to the voice actor Mako for giving Iroh his voice. I can’t imagine anyone else voicing Uncle Iroh.

[@tomnorton4277]

Mako died before the end of the series, so they got a different voice actor for Season 3. You were listening to someone else voice Iroh, so the fact that you couldn't tell the difference is a testament to the guy's talent.

[@margarethmichelina5146]

The one who replaced Iroh on Season 3 is Greg Baldwin who is the succescor of Mako and he is also voiced Aku in the last season of Samurai Jack in Adult Swim at 2015.

[@s52pana]

Iroh reminds me of the quote by Peter Cullen: "be strong enough to be gentle"

[@harambejr5935]

Uncle Iroh is one of the greatest characters I've ever had the pleasure of enjoying. Taught me more about being a man than my father did.

[@TianZhaoHeavenlyFortune]

That scene when Zuko apologizes to Iroh always chokes me up every single time. Also tea isn’t British, it’s Chinese!

[@bravebenar5166]

That's said awfully bold for someone within crusading distance

[@xEllimist]

I’m sure hes referring to the Boston Tea Party

[@DavidVoxDem]

Tea is universal. You think the Chinese thought about tossing a bunch of herbs in water and boiling it first?

[@TianZhaoHeavenlyFortune]

@@DavidVoxDem it originated in China

[@leeh4669]

And Indian! Asian in general I’d say :)

[@slickbricknick123]

The reason I fell in love with this show is that it doesn’t just treat children like kids. It treats them as people who are capable of learning and failing on their own and the journey one takes to get there.

[@DomyTheMad420]

"physical power without purpose is vanity" i need that on a tshirt.

[@buelabuela6108]

My father was a perfect mix of Uncle Iroh and Grunkle Stan; he taught me much.

[@williamrelue]

Iroh's "tea" is symbolic of the love for other people that he has spent years cultivating. Anyone he meets that he share's his "tea" with, that he has the opportunity to share his tea with, is always changed by it. Not a single one does a complete 180, or just gives up everything in their life, but his patience, his care, and his humility change the direction of their lives. He never expects them to just accept his philosophy immediately. Damn Iroh really is the pinnacle of what a good man is. Love this character soo much! I might have to watch this series again!

[@user-xw8mt4wr6z]

The meaning I picked, the one that changed my life: Overcome fear, behold wonder.

[@808mothmansvuce4]

Thank you. I was feeling lost and suicidal before watching this. Now I can restart my journey into becoming the man I want to be. You reminded me of my goal

[@mrelephant3462]

Hey hope you’re doing well, you’ll make it to whatever goal you set you got it

[@bernardweaver2416]

I'm glad as men this concept of masculinity is being discussed. As a father I'm happy for the opportunity to show my children what a man can be, and as I struggle through this I often ask myself what would Iroh do.

[@attilamert6973]

Your kids are gonna be lame then

[@willzill538]

That poor child

[@rafdes]

@@willzill538 This comment just shows you are hurting, and I hope you heal from it in time.

[@willzill538]

@@rafdes you are right. All I can say is... "what would iroh do" hahahahaha

[@lildon112]

I agree. As much as we see constant posts of how masculinity can be toxic, we should see just as many examples of how masculinity can be great. Iroh is a good example. I just became a father as well and so I will be thinking of his character often as I care for my child (and wife!)

[@ash_tray]

Absolutely loved this video. I realized a while ago that my aunt is the Iroh to my Zuko. She was begging me to stop using heroin and go to rehab a few years ago. I was angry and sick and didn’t want help for a long time. Eventually she stopped trying to help and completely cut me out which shocked me because she had been there for me forever. My person. She didn’t abandon me, but she realized she could not help me and that she needed to think about herself for once. I’m glad she did. So then I was fully alone. I finally got clean, we have rebuilt our relationship, and I sent her the video of them making up as it reminds me of us and she agrees. How lucky I am to have someone so amazing in my life. She is amazing and wise and a beautiful soul. 3 years clean!

[@karno6679]

Yo, well done! Your aunt sounds great.

[@ash_tray]

@@karno6679 she really is! I’m so blessed. Thank you

[@blackhogarth4049]

Wow! Well done! Defeating addiction is no easy task!

[@PreposterousJellyfish]

This brought a lil tear to my eye.. Wishing both you and your aunt all of the wonderful and healthy joys of this wild adventure we call life

[@ash_tray]

@@blackhogarth4049 thank you so much! It certainly is not. Especially because the man who showed me heroin and shooting up became extremely abusive and wouldn’t let me talk to my family. I left after he tried to kill me. I relapsed one more time and then got clean for good. So blessed!

[@artzistired]

My friend told me I’m masculine like Uncle Iroh and sent me this video and I don’t think ive ever been more honored

[@eyes1168]

I love how fire is the element of transformation scientifically, and both Iroh and Zuko go through a lot of transformation. Fire could even be looked at as a metaphor for power, Ozai and Azula representing the immature version of it while Iroh and later Zuko, the true power of fire therefore it is life not only destruction as implied when Zuko and Aang meet the masters

[@DimaJeydar]

“Humility allows us to overcome our pride and learn from our failures, rather than be consumed by them.” I needed to hear that. It reminded me of a line Iroh said to Zuko: “Pride is not the opposite of shame, but its source. True humility is the only antidote to shame”. Now I have the answer for the question that’s been bugging me for some time. Just like with Korra, Iroh appears out of nowhere and offers his wisdom in time of need.

[@ceeb830]

I used that quote for my senior quote in the yearbook, it is one of the wisest statements I’ve ever heard and really cuts through any reason to be prideful to one’s detriment

[@richardwardle1654]

⁠

[@Acacius1992]

I'm too uncompetent and stupid to learn from my failures anyqways.

[@Niyto]

​@@Acacius1992​it's incompetent* You may be incompetent at spelling, but not at learning. You didn't give up learning how to walk as a baby, you can read and write. The ability to understand evidently lies within you. Perhaps your next step it to apply to your history and your actions.

[@Acacius1992]

@user-vl3kx9cx8j Nope. I am too stupid and incompetent to for it. Tried so much shit so often. Every single time it didn't brought anything. God that you could do it so easily.

[@beastvg123]

Real men embody virtue. That's for sure. The image of masculinity in our culture has been tarnished by association with traits that are actually its opposite.

[@GucciFatSuit]

Well said. It seemed like the modern standard to be a man Is to win at whatever you're doing. It doesn't matter how you win as long as you do and look good in the end. It's all about the end results and not how you went about it.

[@jellymatsuryuka6853]

nowadays I see a lot of people treating being a man the opposite of being a good person overall and I can list some reasons why: The stereotype says that you should never let anyone do you wrong (and many people don't take it as simply standing your ground and forgiving the person but rather commiting pointless revenge), it tries to say you're superior when in the end you're just a human like everyone regardless of differences, it gives the sense that you should be emotionless when in the end that just leads to frustration, not just that but the modern stereotype for men is that they have to be strong but some men don't realise you shouldn't be ashamed of your weaknesses but rather accept them as part of who you are. As I listed here, if you pay attention you can see that indeed, the modern extreme stereotype of being a man is nothing but being soulless.

[@smefgrimstae7845]

I feel compelled to reply. If we want to promote a healthy view of men, manhood and masculinity we have to move away from the idea that there are "real men". If real men embody virtue, than any man who does not would, then, be a fake man. And while I wholeheartedly agree virtues are good and all people should strive for them, I struggle to see the idea of "real men" as anything more than gatekeeping, even if it comes from a place of goodness. It would mean any man who does not fully encapsulate a given virtue would have failed in being a man, whether he's just an average guy or someone who acts in a less than morally good fashion. Currently, one of the main points of pain for men is failure to feel like they've achieved an acceptable level of "true man-ness" and I would prefer we break down that idea (that one can man is either a True Man or he is not) rather than giving it a new coat of paint (changing what we consider to be a True Man).

[@jellymatsuryuka6853]

@@smefgrimstae7845 I agree, it's best to be ourselves than fit any stereotype. Sadly however, it's quite pointless trying to change the opinions of the blind mobs called the masses.

[@clintelkins9630]

Strength is not a massive explosion, but a conical charge that focus the blast into and armor piercing bolt An amorphous detonation is not strength, it's is force, strength is a vector, without focus it is nothing

[@jimluebke3869]

Iroh's point is not that one should reject the molds and expectations of others. Iroh's point is that a man is more than just one set of expectations, and should embrace (and master) a variety of sets of expectations for different situations he will encounter.

[@sleather5899]

Something I love about iroh is how his love of tea is directly connected to his strive for elemental balance. The earth nurtures it, water brings out its true potential, fire heats it up, and the wind helps it cool to drinking temperature. The elements have to be in perfect balance for a good cup of tea.

[@Robert-hz9bj]

Iroh is the perfect father figure for a young man (maybe the reason I was so drawn to him as a character when the show premiered). He is someone who is gentle and patient, but also knows when and how to speak harsh truths. He's the kind of man that a teenage boy can look to and understand that "being a man" doesn't mean putting on an act to win respect, but earning respect through wisdom and strength (not just of body, but the strength of will to do what is right even when the wrong thing is easier and more immediately gratifying). I wish I'd had an Iroh in my life...

[@azul9655]

I just wanted to add (not diminishing your experience) that he's the perfect father figure for young girls as well, not having a stable and loving father is a problem for a great percentage of people and I as a girl always wished he were my father.

[@Robert-hz9bj]

@@azul9655 An excellent point! It is every bit as important for girls and young women to also have positive examples of non-toxic masculinity in their lives. Both because it is just a good idea in general for young people to have as many positive influences as possible, but also to help demonstrate to these girls how the men in their lives should behave and treat them (as well as others).

[@SinHurr]

He can also breathe fire and that's not necessary but is, objectively, rad as hell.

[@Robert-hz9bj]

@@SinHurr Also a good point. We need more positive male role models who have the ability to breath fire at will...

[@MrAshCarr]

A man has strength enough to build a home, and time enough to hold a child, and love enough to break a heart

[@RizingHorizon]

The reason Uncle Iroh is my favorite character is despite all the grief, the failures, the mistakes, and worst of all, the death of his son, he never turned bitter. He weathered the vicissitudes of life with a smile and was unapologetically himself. I don’t think there are any characters quite like him. Also the video chapters are way off lol

[@theecutiehephaestus2920]

1:10 "Two instruments playing the same note will sound quite different" made me cry.

[@stuarthamilton5112]

Iroh walks softly, speaks wisdom, savors his tea, knows who he is, and is absolutely ready for violence at a moment’s notice.