K2177

2024

Anime/Manga

Zangetsu is a pivotal character from the anime and manga series, Bleach. He initially appears to Ichigo Kurosaki as the manifestation of Ichigo's Zanpakuto spirit, also named Zangetsu.

Throughout much of the series, Zangetsu acts as Ichigo's guide and mentor, assisting him in battles and teaching him to control his spiritual powers. He often appears as an older, seemingly stoic figure, offering cryptic advice.

A major plot twist reveals Zangetsu's true identity: he is actually a manifestation of Ichigo's Quincy powers, specifically a suppressed part of Yhwach's soul residing within Ichigo. He subconsciously limited Ichigo's Shinigami powers to protect him from fully awakening as a Shinigami, as Yhwach feared Ichigo becoming his opponent.

His role shifts from a supportive mentor to a complicated aspect of Ichigo's lineage and internal struggle. Ultimately, Ichigo acknowledges and accepts both Zangetsus (the Quincy Zangetsu and his Shinigami powers manifested as an older version of himself) to unlock his full potential.