Atsushi Nakajima: The Essential Character of Bungou Stray Dogs Anime Series
Atsushi Nakajima is the central character and protagonist of Bungou Stray Dogs anime series. Although he may not be as popular as Osamu Dazai, Chuuya Nakahara or even Ryuunosuke Akutagawa, Atsushi undoubtedly plays a significant role in the series that would have been incomplete without him.
Atsushi was introduced at the very beginning of the series as a homeless boy who was expelled from the orphanage. When he was starving by the riverside, he rescued a man named Osamu Dazai. Later, Dazai took Atsushi to Armed Detective Agency (ADA), where he discovered his unique ability called Beast Beneath the Moonlight that transformed him into a tiger. With the help of his friends, Atsushi developed his ability and became an indispensable asset to solve cases and win fights.
Atsushi is portrayed as a kind, patient, and compassionate guy who cannot bear to see anyone suffer, as evident when he could not let Kyoka be controlled by the Port Mafia. He even allowed Kyoka to stay with him and treated her like his little sister. However, despite his gentle nature, Atsushi is naive and clueless when it comes to noticing romantic advances, like when Lucy Maud Montgomery fell for him.
Atsushi was born under the Taurus zodiac, which is known for its patience and practicality, but they can also be ambitious and determined like Atsushi, whose unique ability can turn the tide of a battle if used correctly. He is initially depicted as a weak and feeble character, but when he gains the necessary character development, his natural ability shines through. He becomes a formidable fighter, especially when he battles Ryuunosuke Akutagawa, where he exhibits his strategic prowess to avoid death.
One of Atsushi’s distinct features is his belt that acts like a tail and moves according to his emotions. This design element was intentionally incorporated to make his character memorable as it represents his unique ability.
Atsushi’s past has left him with deep-rooted trauma that has affected him for much of his life. He had a recurrent nightmare due to harsh words and treatment he received from someone who always called him “useless.” Consequently, Atsushi is initially weak and lacking in confidence and has self-hatred. The Bungou Stray Dogs: Dead Apple film further explores this trauma.
In conclusion, Atsushi Nakajima may not be the most popular character in the Bungou Stray Dogs anime series, but he is undoubtedly the most essential character. From his unique ability to his traumatic past, Atsushi’s character evolves significantly throughout the series, making him an indispensable character that fans cannot imagine the series without.
