Why Theresia Matters (Berserk manga)

[@DonutGuard]

Something else worth noting is that one of the reasons Guts is crying after the encounter is because this is the first time he realizes that he's becoming the monster he wants to destroy. He sees himself in Theresia because although she wanted to die, it was her hatred for him that gave her the will to live, and the strength needed to climb to safety on the edge of his sword, cutting her hands in the process. It was her hatred for him that gave her reason to live. He knows what that's like, and he's beginning to realize that this isn't a life that even he's thrilled about pursuing anymore... but that's not what caused him to break down crying. Guts is a man who's lost everyone and everything that ever meant anything to him, and he lost it all because of one man's selfish desire. Now this little girl has just lost everyone and everything that ever meant anything to her, and she lost it all because of one man's selfish desire... and he's that guy. It doesn't matter that the Count was a horrible person... because Guts is going straight down the path to becoming just like him. If he doesn't end up like him, then he'll at least end up in hell right alongside Vargas. People say that the Lost Children Arc is where Guts starts to see the error of his ways but I think it's pretty obvious that he knew all along that what he was doing was essentially pointless.

[@JohnDWJ]

A deeply considered and apt analysis. She is a fascinating reflection of most of the tragedy experienced in Berserk. She simultaneously foreshadows what is to come while highlighting an incredible amount of context about Guts. But she isn’t just a plot device. She’s a fully realized character in her own right with that painfully mirrored arc. And that’s why this series continues to be brilliant. We all reflect each other (amongst the many aspects of what it is to be human beings). There’s a comfort in that despite the horrors Berserk meditates on. Thank you!

[@god9331]

i was just reading the guidebook and had basically completely forgotten about theresia until reading about her, which still only faintly reminded me of the occurrence. the phrasing of her story in said guidebook confused me even more, but this video was great. good shit!