InsaneJournal

A Jaken Defence Essay
I wrote this originally back in 2004, I think.. Found it recently on my computer so decided to revise it.



While I wasn't originally a "Jaken fan", I have thought for a very long time that he plays a valuable part in the series and that he is sometimes treated far too harshly in comparison to his true abilities and is in fact, far too often misunderstood or overlooked. His existence, though this may sound obvious is entirely tied into Sesshoumaru. Hopefully this statement will have deeper meaning at the end of this piece. ^.^;

It is through Sesshoumaru that we see Jaken, that he has a purpose for being on the show. Though he, Jaken may seem weak, being bullied at almost every possible moment, by every single character, including Rin! (She trod on him, when running after Seshoumaru - though Seshoumaru did provide the example... he's such a good role model ^.^;)... Jaken is still capable of quite a bit - don't forget we are used to seeing the more legendary, extreme youkai of this era. Jaken has been seen threatening a few Youkai, usually on behalf of Seshoumaru - and they listen to him - and in one case it is definetly for Jaken's sake rather than Seshoumaru's sake - since I don't think that one of the demons is capable of drawing up the lines between the two. Examples of Youkai that listen to him are the faceless youkai, one large oger, Muonna- that represented the souls of mothers and Muotoko; lost souls of men.

It is also incredibly important I think to point out, that Jaken, like Sesshoumaru is a Lord. Which I guess goes to show that the terms of Lordship - well its all relative ^.^; I think Jaken is designed to help emphasise Sesshoumaru's greatness. Sesshoumaru isn't JUST a lord, he's powerful, and perfect and respected. - And Jaken shows its not just his titles, or his parentage that make him so. Everyone else in comparison to Sesshoumaru seems plain and toady.

The thing that I admire most about Jaken is how he always throws enthusiasm into everything he does. In comparison, sometimes Sesshoumaru, is kind of... boring. Think about it, what does Sesshoumaru really do?

He comes in. He looks bored.

Compare Jaken!

Jaken comes in. Gets upset! Does a little dance! Gets into a fight! Is horribly beaten up. D: Jaken is where the action is!!!

An example of Jaken's energy would be, the episode he tried to steal the Tessaiga, when his original plan failed - he poured all his energy into fixing everyone else's weapons. I thought it was adorable at the end, watching him sleeping. Not today, but tomorrow shall his plans for world domination pleasing Sesshoumaru work.

I can't help but respond to a character that has so much spirit! And works so hard! :D


I also disagree with the rather spirited claims that Jaken is "ugly", - while he may not be beautiful like Seshoumaru, he isn't visually disturbing and I do think he is quite cute, with those big eyes and little cuddly body. Besides - his position in the anime is to appear comical - rather than perfect. He's well suited to his role.

I also find it adorable to see Jaken and Rin interact together, Jaken is continuously complaining of Rin - but he also takes her seriously and I do believe he does care for the little girl. If mainly because it gives him an excuse to talk ^.^;


And finally if Jaken didn't have any uses, why would we pay attention to him? If Jaken was truly a useless character, we wouldn't even really notice him - despite the number of episodes he's in. Jaken provides a laugh and information. Even Inuyasha wouldn't call him useless - well... Maybe in battle...

I think Jaken was written in to help keep the story line light and moving along, funny. he's a character that helps keep the show interesting, even when it moves in to the important plot line sections - which even though are important - can sometimes appear dry - or take too long to be completed. Jaken helps add depth to the show. I also think he was written as an attempt to balance of the perfect imagery of Sesshoumaru.

After all, Seshoumaru is often used as a yardstick for what Inuyasha wants, what he wants to be like. I think Jaken is an attempt by the author to help dose some reality into Inuyasha - and onlookers looking onto the show - its not just about being a pure-blood that makes you strong - Jaken is pure-blooded, but he isn't someone that Inuyasha aspires too...

I can't help but see Jaken as a clue that becoming a pure demon won't fix all of Inuyasha's problems - something further proven by Inuyasha's "full blooded" demon form - the one that doesn't have any humanity left. D:

So in conclusion, Jaken is a vitally important character, he assists with keeping the plot light and fun, provides valuable information, and furthermore he's a balance for Sesshoumaru. After all who else would Sesshoumaru use as the feudal equivalent of a stress ball?