Summary
Griffith, the charismatic leader of the Band of the Hawk in Kentaro Miura's Berserk, undergoes a dramatic transformation that significantly alters the series' trajectory. This article delves into Griffith's evolution from a revered commander to Femto, a member of the God Hand, exploring the pivotal events that led to his metamorphosis and the implications of his actions.
1. Griffith: The Ambitious Leader of the Band of the Hawk
Griffith's initial portrayal is that of an ambitious and charismatic leader, commanding the Band of the Hawk with unwavering confidence. His dream of establishing his own kingdom drives his every action, attracting loyal followers who believe in his vision. Griffith's strategic brilliance and martial prowess earn him a formidable reputation in the kingdom of Midland.
2. The Downfall: Imprisonment and Desperation
Griffith's ascent faces a catastrophic setback following a reckless encounter with Princess Charlotte. This indiscretion leads to his imprisonment and brutal torture, leaving him physically and mentally shattered. The once-proud leader is reduced to a frail shadow of his former self, his dream seemingly crushed beyond repair.
3. The Eclipse: Griffith's Rebirth as Femto
In a moment of utter despair, Griffith inadvertently activates his Crimson Behelit, triggering the Eclipse—a harrowing event where he sacrifices his comrades to the God Hand in exchange for rebirth as Femto, their fifth member. This transformation signifies Griffith's abandonment of his humanity in pursuit of his overarching ambition.
4. Femto's Powers and Influence
As Femto, Griffith wields formidable abilities, including spatial manipulation and a profound awareness of causality. His rebirth elevates him to a near-omnipotent status, allowing him to influence events on a grand scale, furthering his vision with an unsettling detachment from his former human ties. Wikipedia
5. Griffith's Actions and Their Consequences
Griffith's transformation into Femto culminates in acts of profound betrayal and violence, including the assault on Casca, which leaves her traumatized and Guts, his former comrade, maimed and vengeful. These actions sever any remnants of his past relationships, positioning him as a central antagonist in the series.
6. Griffith's Reincarnation and the New Band of the Hawk
Following the Incarnation Ceremony at Albion, Griffith returns to the physical realm, assembling a new Band of the Hawk composed of apostles and humans alike. He continues to pursue his dream of ruling a kingdom, now with an unsettling blend of demonic power and human charisma, blurring the lines between salvation and subjugation.
FAQs
Q1: Does Griffith die in Berserk?
A1: Griffith does not die in the traditional sense. Instead, he undergoes a transformation during the Eclipse, sacrificing his humanity and comrades to become Femto, a member of the God Hand.
Q2: What did Griffith do to become Femto?
A2: To achieve his transformation into Femto, Griffith sacrificed the members of the Band of the Hawk during the Eclipse, offering them in exchange for demonic power and rebirth as a God Hand member.
Q3: How is Griffith portrayed in the 1997 Berserk anime?
A3: In the 1997 anime adaptation, Griffith is depicted as a charismatic and ambitious leader, with the series culminating in the events of the Eclipse, showcasing his transformation into Femto.
Q4: What are Femto's abilities in Berserk?
A4: As Femto, Griffith possesses abilities such as spatial manipulation, flight, and a heightened awareness of causality, granting him significant influence over the physical and metaphysical realms.
Q5: Why did Griffith sacrifice his comrades?
A5: Griffith sacrificed his comrades to ascend to a higher plane of existence as Femto, believing this was necessary to achieve his dream of ruling a kingdom, regardless of the moral cost.
Q6: How does Griffith's transformation impact Guts?
A6: Griffith's transformation and subsequent actions, including the assault on Casca, profoundly affect Guts, driving him on a path of vengeance and shaping his journey throughout the series.
For a visual depiction of Griffith's transformation, you can watch the following clip from the 2013 adaptation:YouTube
