Junka Enikoma, And The Characters Of Junko Enoshima

1644 Words4 Pages

In regards to upholding and breaking down stereotypes and spectrums within Danganronpa, there is not a character more important than the game’s main antagonist, Junko Enoshima. It is important to note that Junko is the only series character that has appeared in some way in all forms of Danganronpa. Not only is Junko present in all of the currently released video games, but she is also present in all three anime adaptations as well as the series’ spin-off novels. Even though Junko is certainly presented as the antagonist of the series, Junko could be called the game’s main character. Not only does she solely cause the series’ starting point, known as “The Tragedy of Hope’s Peak Academy” or “Hope’s Peak Academy’s Biggest, Most Awful Event,” but …show more content…

These contradictions are not just contained within the character, but play with the larger assumptions about Junko’s character type as a whole, making Junko more interesting and a fan-favorite for the series. When talking about the series’ villains, Kodaka states, “I try not to make villains that are not likable. In fact, I want to make all bad guys lovable. For example, I don't want to make a bad character who is a bully. Instead, I would rather make a bad character who is bullied themselves. I want to make those bad guys lovable in some way” (“Interview: Danganronpa Creator Kazutaka Kodaka”). Junko’s lovability comes from the fact that she refuses to be defined and keeps the player on their toes. She is a strong character that refuses to play by the rules that her world defines for her, so she makes up her own. This causes much death and destruction, but also an entertaining antagonist for the player to …show more content…

Junko is presented as Hope’s Peak Academy’s Ultimate Fashionista, accepted into the academy due to here modeling abilities and good looks. On the outside, someone labeled as a fashionista is not seen as much of a hazard generally. Junko’s stereotype makes her come off as a little bit of an airhead, obsessed with clothes, shoes, and makeup. Intelligence and cunning are not traits associated with this girl. Junko also comes off as a diva, due to her status, causing her to be seen as lazy and unconcerned about the people around her. In general, Junko’s initial place in Danganronpa is that of the pretty girl killed off early in the horror movie, due to the fact that she is a flat character with little ability to solve the game’s initial problems. However, Junko’s Ultimate Fashionista status and overly feminine looks and charm work to her advantage underneath the surface. On the surface level, Junko’s feminine looks and actions work to hide her true intentions. Her talent as a model does not make her stand out as a possible candidate for the ultimate criminal mastermind. By being attractive Junko is able to manipulate those around her as well. A pretty girl is implicitly much more likely to get what she wants from those around her just due to her looks. Additionally, Junko’s position as a famous

Open Document