Is Goku inspired by Monkey King? This question has intrigued fans of both Dragon Ball and Journey to the West for years. The similarities between the two iconic characters are undeniable, and it’s no wonder that many believe Goku’s creation was heavily influenced by the Monkey King from the classic Chinese novel.
Goku, the protagonist of the Dragon Ball series, is known for his incredible strength, resilience, and unyielding spirit. He is often compared to the Monkey King, Sun Wukong, from the 16th-century Chinese novel Journey to the West. Both characters share a number of striking similarities that suggest a strong connection between the two.
Firstly, their physical appearance is quite similar. Goku is often depicted with a tail, which is a clear nod to the Monkey King’s monkey-like appearance. Both characters also have a distinct hairstyle, with Goku’s spiky hair and the Monkey King’s iconic topknot. This visual similarity is further emphasized by the fact that Goku’s signature pose, the “Kaio-ken,” is reminiscent of the Monkey King’s “Great Monkey King” pose.
Secondly, their personalities are quite comparable. Goku is known for his friendly and optimistic demeanor, much like the Monkey King. Both characters are also incredibly resourceful and brave, often going to great lengths to protect their friends and defeat their enemies. Their sense of humor and playful nature are also shared traits that make them relatable to fans.
Furthermore, both Goku and the Monkey King have a strong connection to the heavens and the earthly realm. Goku’s journey to become a Super Saiyan is reminiscent of the Monkey King’s quest to become a god. The Monkey King’s journey in Journey to the West is also a quest for enlightenment and salvation, much like Goku’s quest to protect the Earth from evil.
In addition to these similarities, there are also a few notable differences between Goku and the Monkey King. While the Monkey King is a trickster and often gets into trouble, Goku is generally more reserved and focused on his training. However, these differences do not diminish the influence that the Monkey King has had on Goku’s character.
The connection between Goku and the Monkey King is not just a matter of coincidence. The Dragon Ball series, created by Akira Toriyama, is heavily influenced by Japanese and Chinese mythology. Toriyama has openly admitted that Journey to the West was one of his favorite novels, and it’s clear that he drew inspiration from the Monkey King’s character.
In conclusion, the question of whether Goku is inspired by Monkey King is a resounding yes. The similarities between the two characters are too numerous to ignore, and it’s evident that Akira Toriyama drew heavily from the Monkey King’s character when creating Goku. As fans of both Dragon Ball and Journey to the West continue to explore the connections between these two iconic characters, the influence of the Monkey King on Goku’s character will remain a fascinating topic of discussion.
