Excalibur Soul Eater

Ed Bradley

2 min read

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14-12-2024

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The legendary sword Excalibur, steeped in Arthurian myth, finds a fascinating and surprisingly brutal reimagining in Atsushi Ōkubo's manga series Soul Eater. While the original Excalibur is a symbol of power and righteous kingship, Ōkubo's version is a jarring, comedic, and ultimately poignant subversion of the classic archetype. This exploration delves into the differences, the similarities, and the overall impact of this unique portrayal.

The Classic Excalibur: King Arthur's Holy Blade

Before we delve into the Soul Eater interpretation, a brief recap of the traditional Excalibur is necessary. In Arthurian legend, Excalibur is often portrayed as a magically imbued sword, imbued with immense power and associated with divine legitimacy. It's a symbol of Arthur's rightful claim to the throne and his capacity for heroism. The sword's very existence is often tied to the fate of Britain and the success or failure of its king. It's a symbol of power, justice, and destiny.

Excalibur in Soul Eater: A Hilariously Incompetent Weapon

Ōkubo's Excalibur is a far cry from the majestic weapon of Arthurian legend. In Soul Eater, Excalibur is a sentient weapon, a Meister-class soul weapon, but one incredibly difficult to wield. Rather than radiating power and regal authority, Excalibur is presented as a pathetic, whiny, and incredibly long-winded soul. Its physical form, revealed only gradually, is grotesque and unsettling, a far cry from the elegant images often associated with the legendary blade. The sword's personality is a major source of humor, constantly interrupting the wielder with rambling, irrelevant stories, often making the wielder's task of using the weapon incredibly difficult.

The Contrast: Power vs. Incompetence

The contrast between the original Excalibur and its Soul Eater counterpart is stark. The legendary sword represents strength, resilience, and righteous power. Ōkubo's Excalibur embodies everything but these qualities. Its power is undeniable, but it's largely negated by its user-unfriendly personality and its habit of self-indulgent storytelling. This juxtaposition is a significant part of its comedic appeal.

A Deeper Meaning: Overcoming Challenges

Despite its comedic portrayal, Excalibur in Soul Eater still represents a significant challenge to overcome. The difficulty in wielding the sword isn't just physical; it's psychological. The wielder must endure its ceaseless, irritating monologues and find the strength to persevere. This challenges the very definition of strength, suggesting that true strength lies not only in raw power, but also in patience and mental fortitude.

Conclusion: A Subversive Masterpiece

Ōkubo's reimagining of Excalibur in Soul Eater is a brilliant example of subversive storytelling. By taking a classic symbol of power and transforming it into a comical, frustrating character, he creates a compelling and memorable element within the manga's narrative. While it lacks the traditional gravitas of its Arthurian counterpart, Soul Eater's Excalibur adds layers of humor and unexpected depth, ultimately enhancing the overall narrative. It's a testament to the power of creative reinterpretation and the enduring appeal of myth, even when subjected to hilariously unconventional treatments.