Atsushi Nakajima is the main protagonist in Bungo Stray Dogs. He joins the Armed Detective Agency and is often involved in dangerous battles against criminal organizations, such as the Port Mafia.
In this article, we would like to discuss Atsushi Nakajima in more detail. Curious? Check out the full review below!
His Personality
Atsushi is kind, helpful, and sometimes naive. He often acts recklessly to save others without considering his own safety. He also possesses high loyalty to his friends.
However, Atsushi also has an insecure side and is afraid of rejection due to a bad experience in the past. Gradually, his confidence begins to grow thanks to Dazai's encouragement.
As a detective, Atsushi is considered very intelligent, although not as brilliant as Ranpo or Dazai. He is able to understand mysteries and find solutions to problems. He is also often relied upon by his friends.
He Has Unique Hairstyle and Eyes
In terms of appearance, Atsushi usually wears a casual white shirt with a black tie. He has messy, long hair on one side. Besides looking odd, this haircut holds a story of its own.
In the past, Atsushi was often bullied by his friends at the orphanage. They cut his hair in an untidy way. Despite this, Atsushi kept his hair that way.
Atsushi also has quite beautiful eyes: purple at the top of the iris and yellow at the bottom. This color is apparently related to an eye condition called segmental heterochromia.
His Background
Atsushi has a very traumatic past. He lived in an orphanage with other orphans. Furthermore, he was often tortured and mistreated by the orphanage's administrators.
For example, Atsushi was held in a holding cell without any food. The reason behind this detention is likely related to the tiger power within Atsushi, which often goes berserk and loses control.
After turning 18, Atsushi was kicked out of the orphanage and lived a wandering life. Eventually, he arrived in Yokohama and met the members of the Armed Detective Agency.
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He Joined Armed Detective Agency
Atsushi was first discovered by Dazai and Kunikida near a river. They were investigating a tiger incident that was disturbing the residents. They realized that the tiger's presence was closely connected to Atsushi.
Unbeknownst to him, Atsushi was the tiger in question. He went berserk and lost control under the full moon. However, he was easily stopped by Dazai's powers.
Dazai then offered Atsushi the chance to join the Armed Detective Agency, knowing he had no place to stay. Atsushi accepted the offer. However, he couldn't simply join without the chairman's approval.
Atsushi also had to pass a series of tests to prove his worth. These tests took place without Atsushi's knowledge. However, he managed to pass thanks to his courageous actions.
He Admires Osamu Dazai
After being saved by Dazai, Atsushi feels deeply indebted to Dazai. Although he is often irritated by Dazai's absurd actions, he deeply respects and admires Dazai.
Atsushi also learned a lot from Dazai in action. Thanks to Dazai's help, Atsushi was able to become stronger and more confident in himself.
He Has a Fierce Rivalry with Akutagawa
Atsushi and Akutagawa develop a fierce rivalry throughout the story. Atsushi deeply despises Akutagawa for his evil deeds, while Akutagawa resents Atsushi for receiving more recognition than Dazai.
Their relationship is very similar to that of Dazai and Chuuya. Although they don't get along, they can become solid partners when fighting together. For example, when he defeated the Guild Leader.
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Fighting Abilities
Atsushi's ability is Beast Beneath the Moonlight. This ability allows him to transform into a tiger. At first, he is unable to control this power. He also doesn't realize he's an ability user.
After becoming an official member of the Armed Detective Agency, Atsushi can control these powers thanks to Fukuzawa's All Men Are Equal effect. However, he usually fights in his half-tiger form.
Romantic Relationships
Although Bungo Stray Dogs focuses more on detective and crime stories, the anime also features a strong romantic element. For example, the love triangle between Atsushi, Kyoko, and a Guild member named Lucy.
Kyoko and Lucy were once saved by Atsushi, leading them to consider him more than just a friend. They often share sweet and funny moments with him.
Character Reference
In real life, Atsushi Nakajima was a renowned Japanese writer in the 1940s. He had a unique writing style with themes of self-reflection. His writings were inspired by classical Chinese stories and his own experiences.
One of his most famous works is The Moon Over the Mountain, also known as the Tiger Poet, which serves as the inspiration for Atsushi's powers in Bungo Stray Dogs.
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