Sasuke Uchiha finally kills his older brother, Itachi Uchiha, in Naruto Shippuden episode 138, “The End.” This climactic showdown marks the culmination of years of Sasuke’s relentless pursuit of revenge and reveals the devastating truth behind Itachi’s actions.
The Anatomy of an Epic Battle
The battle between Sasuke and Itachi is arguably one of the most iconic and well-animated fights in the entire Naruto franchise. It’s a visually stunning spectacle packed with intricate jutsu, strategic maneuvers, and emotional weight that reverberates long after the fight concludes. To fully appreciate the significance of episode 138, it’s essential to understand the events leading up to it and the ramifications that follow.
Building Tension: The Road to the Showdown
Sasuke’s primary motivation throughout much of Naruto and Naruto Shippuden is revenge against Itachi for the massacre of the Uchiha clan. He dedicates himself entirely to this goal, pushing himself to the absolute limit and even aligning himself with Orochimaru to gain the power necessary to defeat his brother. He believes Itachi is a monster who slaughtered their entire clan without remorse.
The fight itself is meticulously choreographed, showcasing the growth and evolution of both characters’ skills. They both push each other to their limits.
“The End”: More Than Just a Fight
Episode 138 doesn’t simply showcase Sasuke killing Itachi; it delves into the physical and mental exhaustion both characters endure. It’s a brutal and taxing battle that leaves both Uchiha brothers severely wounded. Itachi ultimately succumbs to his injuries, seemingly at the hands of Sasuke. This apparent victory fulfills Sasuke’s long-held desire but also sets the stage for a significant twist.
Understanding the Aftermath
The death of Itachi marks a turning point for Sasuke. However, his journey takes an unexpected and darker turn as he learns the truth about Itachi’s role in the Uchiha massacre. This knowledge fundamentally changes Sasuke’s perspective and fuels his subsequent actions, ultimately shaping the later arcs of Naruto Shippuden.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Sasuke’s battle with Itachi and the surrounding circumstances:
FAQ 1: What episode number does the fight between Sasuke and Itachi start?
The battle between Sasuke and Itachi officially begins in Naruto Shippuden episode 135, titled “The Moment of Encounter.” While the actual confrontation starts in this episode, the following episodes, 136, 137, and 138, are crucial for the fight’s progression and its ultimate conclusion.
FAQ 2: Why did Itachi let Sasuke kill him?
This is the core question that defines Itachi’s character. Itachi allowed Sasuke to kill him to ensure Sasuke’s safety, protect the Hidden Leaf Village, and prevent the truth about the Uchiha massacre from being revealed. He carried the burden of the massacre alone, wanting Sasuke to be seen as a hero who avenged the clan. He was also dying from a long illness.
FAQ 3: What was Itachi’s true objective?
Itachi’s true objective was to protect Sasuke and the Hidden Leaf Village at all costs. He was forced to make an impossible choice: either allow the Uchiha clan to stage a coup and start a war or massacre the clan to prevent it. He chose the latter, under the condition that Sasuke be spared. He lived as a traitor, hated by his brother, to serve the greater good in his mind.
FAQ 4: What is the significance of Itachi tapping Sasuke’s forehead at the end?
The forehead tap is a callback to Itachi’s earlier interactions with Sasuke when they were children. It represents his love for Sasuke and his regret over the path their lives took. It’s a silent message of affection and a final farewell.
FAQ 5: How powerful were Sasuke and Itachi during their fight?
Both Sasuke and Itachi were incredibly powerful during their fight, showcasing advanced Sharingan techniques, powerful jutsu, and exceptional strategic abilities. Itachi was weakened by illness, while Sasuke was operating at near his peak, fueled by vengeance. It’s considered one of the greatest anime battles in terms of power levels and strategy involved.
FAQ 6: What techniques did Sasuke use against Itachi?
Sasuke used a wide array of techniques during the fight, including Chidori variations, fire style jutsu, lightning release jutsu, and summoning techniques. He demonstrated his improved combat skills and strategic planning throughout the battle. He developed new techniques specifically to counter Itachi’s, showing his dedication to surpassing him.
FAQ 7: What techniques did Itachi use against Sasuke?
Itachi used an arsenal of powerful techniques, including Amaterasu (unextinguishable black flames), Tsukuyomi (an illusionary genjutsu), Susanoo (a spectral warrior), and various Sharingan-based jutsu. However, his illness significantly hampered his ability to use these techniques effectively.
FAQ 8: How did Tobi/Obito factor into the aftermath of Itachi’s death?
Tobi (later revealed to be Obito Uchiha) revealed the truth about Itachi’s mission to Sasuke after Itachi’s death. He showed Sasuke the conditions under which Itachi was forced to massacre the Uchiha clan and his devotion to protecting the Hidden Leaf Village and Sasuke. This revelation profoundly impacted Sasuke’s worldview.
FAQ 9: What was Sasuke’s reaction to learning the truth about Itachi?
Sasuke was devastated and enraged upon learning the truth about Itachi. He felt betrayed by the Hidden Leaf Village and dedicated himself to destroying it, seeking revenge for the suffering Itachi endured. He became a symbol of hatred and a major antagonist in the later arcs of Naruto Shippuden.
FAQ 10: How did Itachi’s death impact the overall Naruto storyline?
Itachi’s death had a massive impact on the entire Naruto storyline. It set Sasuke on a darker path, fueled the Fourth Great Ninja War, and ultimately led to Naruto and Sasuke confronting each other in a final battle to decide the fate of the ninja world.
FAQ 11: Did Itachi have any regrets?
While Itachi carried out his mission with unwavering resolve, he undoubtedly had regrets. He regretted the pain he caused Sasuke, the burden he placed on himself, and the loss of his clan. His actions were motivated by love and a desire for peace, but they came at a tremendous personal cost.
FAQ 12: What is the legacy of Itachi Uchiha?
Itachi Uchiha is considered one of the most complex and tragic characters in Naruto. He is remembered for his unwavering loyalty, his self-sacrifice, and his profound love for his brother. He represents the difficult choices that must sometimes be made in the name of peace, and his story serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of war and the importance of understanding. His legacy is one of sacrifice, love and the complexities of moral decisions in extraordinary circumstances.