Breaking Stereotypes: Dragon Ball Super's Krillin Challenges Problematic Tropes
Dragon Ball Super's Krillin defies stereotypes and proves that even the seemingly 'lame' characters can be powerful and integral to the series
Article Overview
Recent actions by Krillin in Dragon Ball Super challenge stereotypes and showcase the series' ability to break norms.
Krillin's redemption for former embarrassments can be attributed to his heroic action of rescuing Android 18. In contrast to other series, Dragon Ball Super presents Android 18 as a formidable character who is typically self-reliant, thereby enhancing the complexity of Krillin and 18's relationship.
Krillin's recent actions in Dragon Ball Super chapter #98 defy the usual stereotypes and actually enhance the story. This is significant considering the prevalence of shonen series that often fall into these clichés. It's a refreshing change and a testament to the depth of Super's character portrayal.
In this chapter, penned by story writer Akira Toriyama and artist Toyotarou, the dangerous Cell Max goes on a rampage, specifically targeting Android 18 with a menacing energy ball. The manga effectively illustrates the potential harm this blast could inflict on 18. However, just in the nick of time, Krillin intervenes and cleaves the energy ball in two using his skillful Destructo Disc technique, ensuring 18's safety.
Contrary to common perceptions, this situation does not portray the trope of a powerful hero swooping in to rescue a defenseless woman who is unable to defend herself.
Android 18 Isn't A Damsel In Distress
Although not the least valuable hero in Super, Krillin has experienced his fair share of humiliating moments. In fact, the manga's version of Super Hero includes an exclusive scene that completely mocks Krillin, depicting him losing a fight to a lowly cyborg wasp. This moment alone justifies Krillin's actions in saving 18 - he needed to perform a heroic act to redeem himself. Contributing to this is 18's consistent portrayal as a strong and capable warrior. When Goku tries to recruit Krillin and 18 for the Tournament of Power in chapter #31, he reacts much more enthusiastically when 18 finally agrees to participate, much to Krillin's dismay. Android 18 is never depicted as a damsel in distress to the extent that she can be rescued without her character being diminished.
This cannot be said for other popular series like Boruto, which is known for perpetuating the stereotype that women are less capable than men. Sasuke's daughter, Sarada, has recently been disrespected in Two Blue Vortex, and an even subtler insult to her character occurs earlier in Naruto Next Generations when Kawaki instructs Sarada on how to use Sharingan, despite having just learned about the Uchiha technique himself. These unfortunate clichés are common in shonen, making 18's appearances in Super a refreshing exception.
Dragon Ball Super Explores The Other Side Of Krillin and 18's Dynamic
If Boruto had done something similar to what happened in Dragon Ball Super with Krillin and Android 18, it would not have been as acceptable. This is because in Boruto, most of the male shinobi are highly skilled warriors while their female counterparts are often overlooked or in need of assistance from their male colleagues. On the other hand, Krillin in Dragon Ball Super is constantly belittled and Android 18's main flaw is her money-oriented motivation. Although Dragon Ball Super did not cross any controversial boundaries this time, it is more refreshing to see female heroes taking charge and saving the day instead of being rescued. This is exemplified by the recent retcon of Pan's character in the manga to play a more crucial role. Even if the rescuer is someone as weak and seemingly useless as Dragon Ball Super's Krillin. Check out Dragon Ball Super #98 on Manga Plus now!
Read On Manga Plus
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z netizen, I have grown up watching anime and reading manga, and I have seen my fair share of stereotypes, especially in the shonen genre. Male characters are often portrayed as strong and powerful, while female characters are often relegated to the sidelines or objectified. However, I am happy to see that Dragon Ball Super is challenging these stereotypes with the character of Krillin.
In the recent chapter #98, Krillin saves Android 18 from a dangerous energy ball, defying the trope of the powerful hero swooping in to rescue a defenseless woman. This is a refreshing change from the usual portrayal of female characters in shonen, and it shows that even characters who are not traditionally seen as strong can be powerful and integral to the story.
