Lecture on Naoya Zen'in from Jujutsu Kaisen

Introduction

• Naoya Zen'in is a complex character from the series Jujutsu Kaisen.
• Described as narcissistic, misogynistic, and overconfident yet perceived by some as 'cool'.

Character Introduction

• Introduced around the end of the Shibuya Incident arc (Chapter 138).
• Part of the Zen'in Clan, involved in discussing the new clan head.
• Special Grade 1 Sorcerer with skills surpassing other special grade 1 sorcerers.

Personality Traits

• Ego and Skills:
  • Displays high competency in sorcery.
  • Calls his siblings losers and demeans women within his clan.
• Misogynistic Views:
  • Frequently belittles female relatives.
  • Comments on women needing to remain subservient.
  • Abusive behavior towards younger female relatives like Maki and Mai.

Actions and Impact in the Series

• Clan Leadership Conflict:
  • Disapproves of Megumi Fushiguro becoming the new head; plans to eliminate him.
• Battle with Yuji and Choso (Ch. 139):
  • Offers Yuji a deal to break his legs rather than executing him.
  • Easily overpowers Yuji and Choso.
• Conflict with Maki (Perfect Preparation Arc, Ch. 148):
  • Belittles Maki for her scars and lack of traditional femininity.
  • Symbolizes the oppressive nature of the Zen'in Clan.

Major Fights and Downfall

• Defeat by Choso and Others (Ch. 142):
  • Despite his arrogance, fails to achieve his objectives.
• Final Confrontation with Maki (Ch. 151):
  • Defeated by Maki, who represents the antithesis of his values.
  • Key flashbacks depict his respect for Toji Fushiguro and Gojo.

Resurrection and Final Defeat

• Cursed Spirit Form (Ch. 191 - 199):
  • Returns as a formidable cursed spirit.
  • Maintains misogynistic and overconfident demeanor.
• Battle with Maki (New Form):
  • Shows superior cursed techniques, including a deadly domain expansion.
  • Ultimately defeated due to his inability to acknowledge Maki as a threat.

Legacy

• Reflection of Zen'in Clan Values:
  • Embodies the toxic ideologies of his clan.
  • Portrayed to be disliked, making his downfall satisfying.
• Intriguing Character Depth:
  • Despite negative attributes, his relationship with strong sorcerers like Gojo and Toji adds depth.

Conclusion

• Represents the 'Pampered Genius' trope.
• Written to evoke both intrigue and disdain from readers.
• Balance of impressive abilities and reprehensible values create a memorable character in the series.