The complex and enigmatic relationship between Itachi and Sasuke Uchiha in the Naruto universe has been a pivotal element of the story, leaving a lasting impact on fans. While Itachi emerged as the unsung hero, saving Konoha from a looming catastrophe, he became a figure of hatred and fear for Sasuke, who harbored a deep animosity towards his older brother.
Itachi annihilated their entire clan, sparing only Sasuke, and then fled the village without providing any explanation for his actions. It was not until Sasuke encountered Madara (disguised as Obito) at the Akatsuki hideout that the truth behind Itachi's deeds was finally revealed. This revelation came after a fierce battle between the Uchiha brothers, resulting in Itachi's defeat and eventual death.
Disclaimer: This article contains major anime and manga spoilers for the Naruto series.
Naruto: Itachi kept the truth from Sasuke to ensure his safety
During the Naruto series, there was a rebellion within the Uchiha clan against the Konoha village. In this context, Itachi, under the orders of Danzo, had the grim task of eliminating every member of his own clan, including his own family. However, as Obito later revealed, Itachi's deep love for his younger brother prevented him from carrying out this heinous act, even surpassing his loyalty to his parents.
After being seen as a ruthless killer by his younger brother, Itachi decided to abandon the village. Prior to his departure, he issued a warning to Danzo, stating that any attempt to harm Sasuke would result in the disclosure of Konoha's sensitive information to rival villages. Itachi understood that revealing the truth to Sasuke would ultimately lead to the destruction of everything he sought to protect, including Sasuke's life and the Uchiha clan's well-being.
Itachi, a prodigy of the Uchiha clan, possessed an unparalleled ability to swiftly and accurately assess a person's character. Even after only a brief encounter, he could determine a person's qualities and intentions, a skill that led him to join the Anbu at a remarkably young age. However, despite his sharp judgment, Itachi was cautious of Danzo's manipulative and vicious nature. Worried for his younger brother's safety, Itachi struck a deal with Danzo, but not without issuing a warning due to the latter's notorious reputation for betrayal.
Additionally, by unintentionally assuming the role of the antagonist in his brother's narrative, Itachi inadvertently propelled Sasuke down the treacherous road of vengeance, ultimately forcing him to acknowledge his untapped capabilities. This descent into a spiral of hatred and retribution has long been the catalyst for the Uchiha clan's relentless pursuit of greater strength and power.
Remarkably, everything went as planned according to Itachi until the last moment, when he deliberately allowed his younger brother to defeat him as a way to make up for his past misdeeds. It is common knowledge within the Naruto community that Itachi's sole desire after exterminating his entire clan was to meet his demise by Sasuke's hand.
Even in his last breaths, Itachi chose not to divulge the truth to Sasuke, as he didn't want his younger sibling to bear the burden of killing his own flesh and blood and to sympathize with him for the challenging path he had undertaken.
Despite the impossibility of eliciting the emotions Sasuke had abandoned, Obito successfully compelled Sasuke to comprehend the arduous decision Itachi had been forced to make. Upon discovering the factual truth, Sasuke ultimately granted Itachi his forgiveness.
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Editor's P/S
Itachi's Silence: A Fan's Perspective
Itachi's character in Naruto is one of the most intriguing and well-developed. His complexity and motivations have been the subject of much debate among fans. One of the most interesting aspects of Itachi's character is his silence. He rarely speaks about his past or his reasons for doing the things he does. This silence has led to a lot of speculation about what he is thinking and feeling.
There are many reasons why Itachi might have chosen to remain silent. One possibility is that he was simply trying to protect Sasuke. He knew that if Sasuke knew the truth about his past, he would be consumed by hatred and anger. Itachi wanted to spare Sasuke from that pain.
Another possibility is that Itachi was ashamed of what he had done. He knew that he had killed innocent people, and he didn't want to face the consequences of his actions. By remaining silent, Itachi could avoid having to confront his guilt.
Whatever the reason, Itachi's silence had a profound impact on Sasuke. It made him question everything he knew about his brother and about the world. It also led him down a path of revenge that ultimately destroyed his life.
Itachi's silence is a powerful reminder of the dangers of keeping secrets. It can lead to isolation, guilt, and even violence. It is important to be honest with ourselves and with others, even when it is difficult.