"Berserk" is the narrative of Guts, the Black Swordsman. At first, nothing more than your edgy badass MC. He's got it all - he's big, with a sword whose size matches his own stature; he's quiet, focusing his energy on slicing up demons; he's an asshole. Focus on the last part. Guts is not presented as a positive personality, and this is never glamourized. Instead, this is used as an incredible hook to one of the best storytelling arcs ever told, by making it clear that this man's past has defined his existence - the Golden Age. Much has been said about it, and many times has it been adapted across various media. For good reason - to this day, it still remains the best arc of the entire series, and that is not to beat down what follows it. But the consistent plot and character development, coupled with incredible action and gorgeous art turn this into a pinnacle for the genre of dark fantasy. The trio of Guts, Griffith, and Casca is filled with nuances and is a pinnacle in character writing. Complex philosophical introspection is the last fragment that makes this inarguably one of the most meaningful fables of the last few decades.
What is to say of the manga past the Golden Age? It is ocassionally a contentious point amongst fans, as the tone changes gradually to reflect the development of our main character. I will say that while not as strong as the Golden Age, the rest of the manga's arcs are in no way weak. The Lost Children chapter was a perfect way to transition into what was next. In general, the Conviction arc introduced us to many new characters and showed us what deprativites humanity would turn to when at their lowest. It's in the Falcon of the Millenium Empire and Fantasia (sadly unfinished) arcs that we get to see the true message of "Berserk". I will admit, occassionaly, the story drags on, especially in the beginning of the most recent arc. The comedy is hit-or-miss for sure. The cast becomes bloated. But that simply cannot take away what is a perfect demonstration of internal struggle and recovery. I only feel Guts' pain more after I've had my own rough times in life, and seeing him slowly try to find meaning is poignant in a manner only the best of writers are able to accomplish. It is why it saddens me moreso that I had to wake up to such an abrupt ending, moreso when the latest episodes had seen incredible plot developments and turned a new leaf for this series.
I did in no way mention the art. Miura's work is touted in high regard amongst your avid manga readers, and for good reason. His meticulous attention to detail is legendary and has resulted in many pages that are as good as paintings. Considering how "Berserk" numbers over 350 episodes, I'll leave it up to you to consider just how impressive this is when there is not a single page of poor quality. And every episode is bound to have at least one piece that can impress you. Please, if you do read this manga, don't rush through it. Stop to observe the art, for it is central to this tale. I'd say that the black-and-white aesthetics of manga only suit it further, bringing a grittiness and edge to the atmosphere. Some of the most beautiful visages are present here, as well as completely grotesque images that shock and disgust. Do not read this if you are sensitive to violence, especially sexual violence. "Berserk" aims to shock, yet it manages to almost always do so deftly and in a way that enhances the story. Miura walked on a very narrow ledge of nuance, using the artistic liberties of the seinen genre to explore human trauma in a disturbing, yet honest manner.
It's probably clear that I hold Miura's work in high regard. I felt lost at first when I heard the news of his passing. I do not exaggerate when I say that "Berserk" has been like a Bible to me. I've found many answers to my own life here, and I've seen this sentiment shared across the community. I do hope that Miura left some notes and his assistants decide to pick up his work, but that could be a pipe dream for all I know. What I am certain of is that the journey so far has been more than worth it, and the legendary mangaka left a work that only few can hope to compete with. As sentimental as I may sound, thank you, Miura, for the care and soul you put into "Berserk". I will keep coming back to it, no matter what its future might be.
