The popular manga series Jujutsu Kaisen, created by Gege Akutami, has come to an end, leaving fans with mixed emotions. The final chapter, number 271, provides closure for the main characters and wraps up the story’s central conflict.
Key Events in the Finale
The chapter begins with Yuji Itadori, Nobara Kugisaki, and Megumi Fushiguro completing one last mission. It then shifts to a flashback of Satoru Gojo expressing his faith in the new generation of sorcerers. The story also gives a glimpse of Sukuna and Mahito in the afterlife, setting up the final scenes which show the Tokyo Jujutsu High students living happily after Sukuna’s defeat.
Character Fates
Most of the main characters survive the series, including the central trio of Yuji, Nobara, and Megumi. Other survivors include Hiromi Higuruma, Fumihiko Takaba, the Kyoto High students, and most of the teachers. However, Satoru Gojo, Tsumiki Fushiguro, and Uraume do not survive.
Gojo’s Happy Ending
While some fans were disappointed that Gojo wasn’t revived, his death actually aligns with his character’s goals. Gojo wanted the younger generation to surpass him and live freely, unlike his own generation. His sacrifice enabled this dream to come true, making his ending a fulfilling one for his character arc.
A Deserved Happy Ending
The author had previously promised that the series would end with either only one of the four main characters dying or only one surviving. The final outcome sees only Gojo dying among the central four. This ending feels deserved because it shows the new generation of sorcerers surpassing their predecessors without sacrificing their own. The collective effort to defeat Sukuna, rather than relying on a single “monster” like Gojo, further emphasizes their growth and achievement.
Fan Reactions
Despite the overall happy ending, fan reactions have been mixed. Many are debating the merits of the conclusion, with some praising it and others critiquing Akutami’s choices. Some fans have expressed confusion about the fates of certain characters, leading to discussions and explanations in online forums.
The Significance of the Final Panel
The series concludes with a symbolic panel showing the last Sukuna finger resting at Yuji’s original high school. This image mirrors the story’s beginning, creating a sense of closure and coming full circle.
While Jujutsu Kaisen undoubtedly has a happy ending that ties up most character arcs and plot lines, it has still sparked controversy among fans. The conclusion manages to fulfill the author’s promise and provides a satisfying resolution for many characters, particularly Gojo. However, the mixed reactions from fans highlight that even a well-crafted ending can be divisive in a beloved series. Despite the criticisms, the ending succeeds in showcasing the growth of its characters and the fulfillment of the central themes of surpassing previous generations and finding strength in collective effort.