When considering the main characters in anime, most people tend to think of those who are bold, assertive, and charismatic. Typically, anime and manga creators lean towards portraying protagonists with these distinctive traits. However, this trend can lead to a polarizing representation of characters.
As a result, some authors choose to innovate by giving unique traits to their main characters. This includes a common trait found in antagonists: arrogance.
Below are 7 arrogant characters who are not hated in anime:
Mugen from “Samurai Champloo”
Mugen is a wandering rogue from the Ryukyu Islands, with a distinctive fighting style. He is notoriously known for his rebellious nature, impulsiveness, and tendency to provoke others through heated debates to incite conflict.
Mugen embodies the traits of a classic anti-hero. His arrogance is fueled by self-confidence in his combat skills, believing he is unbeatable in brawls. Even after meeting Jin, a disciplined swordsman, Mugen remains steadfast in his arrogant demeanor.
Lelouch Lamperouge from “Code Geass”
Lelouch Lamperouge is a character with a complex duality. From the beginning, he harbors deep resentment towards Britannia, yearning for the downfall of the imperial nation. Gifted with a powerful ability known as Geass, he uses it to manipulate those around him.
Lelouch stands out for his intelligence and shrewdness, cleverly deceiving his enemies while evading the grasp of authority. His arrogance stems from the belief that he can achieve any goal, but this often blinds him to critical details, leading to severe miscalculations.
Uchiha Sasuke from “Naruto”
Sasuke is both Naruto’s rival and best friend. They met as children while living in a turbulent environment. The differences between them are stark: Naruto is carefree and optimistic, while Sasuke is serious and arrogant.
From a young age, Sasuke demonstrated exceptional ninja skills, including techniques in ninjutsu, taijutsu, and genjutsu. With a strong sense of his own potential, he believes he surpasses his peers. Despite his arrogance, Sasuke harbors deep-seated insecurities, which explains Kishimoto’s choice to maintain this trait in his character.
Light Yagami from “Death Note”
Light Yagami is the main anti-hero of “Death Note.” Once an ordinary student, discovering the Death Note drastically changed his existence. Light quickly learns how to operate the notebook, becoming obsessed with its power.
Over time, using the Death Note fuels Light’s growing megalomania. He begins to see himself as a judge of morality, often justifying his actions as necessary. Even when facing L, the brilliant detective, Light remains unshaken, firmly believing in his superiority.
Gojo Satoru from “Jujutsu Kaisen”
Gojo Satoru gained fame from his first appearance in “Jujutsu Kaisen.” His arrogance is distinct, as are his unique abilities. Throughout the first season, Gojo engages in many battles, all while remaining unfazed by his opponents.
Satoru is known for his disregard for authority, viewing hierarchy as trivial. This attitude, while off-putting to some, has established him as one of the strongest sorcerers in the “Jujutsu Kaisen” universe.
Vegeta from “Dragon Ball”
Prince Vegeta is a symbol of arrogance in “Dragon Ball.” He takes great pride in his Saiyan heritage, often exhibiting a haughty demeanor that sometimes leads to his own downfall.
Despite facing failures and overwhelming challenges, Vegeta never relinquishes his arrogant pride. This trait has endeared him to fans, portraying him as a warrior who refuses to back down, especially in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
Escanor from “Nanatsu no Taizai”
Escanor, one of the Seven Deadly Sins, has a tragic backstory. Born into a noble family, he struggled with his overwhelming power, which forced him to live in isolation. This existence made him proud yet aware of the extraordinary strength he possessed.
As the Lion’s Sin of Pride, Escanor’s arrogance is evident, often looking down on others regardless of their background. His unwavering confidence was showcased in battles against formidable foes like Estarossa.
