Few manga carry the unique setting and beautiful characteristics of the brilliant series “Berserk“ by Kentaro Miura. This series carries a special type of eloquence that almost makes it impossible to put down. It’s stunning medieval setting and it’s relatable and addictive characters give it some of the most interesting content within a manga series of all time.
This series focuses on a swordsman named Guts, who when first introduced in the first and second volumes as an adult, appears to be a brutal, malevolent, and broken man. Walking through life only with his weapon and his thirst for the blood of those he is hunting. After this short arc, the reader soon learns of Guts’ horrific, violent, and haunting past.
Born from the hung body of his mother and taken in by a mercenary group leader who goes by Gambino, all he was taught from a young age was the art of the sword, which ultimately becomes the only thing he is truly attached to in life. During his time with Gambino, he sustains substantial mental and physical abuse from Gambino himself, as well as the other mercenaries.
The story of “Berserk” truly becomes something to behold once Guts becomes a member of the mercenary group known as The Band of The Hawk, led by the guile and manipulative Griffith. The relationship between these two becomes the main focus of the next fourteen volumes. The way their relationship grows and tears apart is by far the most intriguing aspect of the manga. With Guts, the lonely swordsman on a mission to find his purpose and see how strong he can become, and Griffith with his dream to become the King of the Midland Kingdom. Readers begin to discover that Guts is the only person to ever distract Griffith from his dream, adding to the complexity of their relationship.
Another thing to note about Kentaro Miura’s Berserk is the artwork. Berserk is notorious for having beautiful and detailed drawings, not only making this an excellent read for those newer to manga, but also giving readers even more reason to fall deeper into the trance that this story may encapsulate you in.
For those with the desire for a new read, or for those into shows with similar themes and environments such as “The Witcher” or “Game of Thrones” who want something a bit different from their usual form of media. “Berserk” could be an excellent choice for you. However, proceed with caution as this series contains not only a very dark atmosphere, but also does not hold back on violent and sexual content.
