Hi, all! I don't know why, but I've been really into this lately -- that is, proud and/or arrogant characters getting humbled (or outright broken) in a big way. This may serve to give them character development, cause them an abundance of angst, or just show them how weak they really are. I'm just looking for that kind of situation, preferably with a male character (but female characters are fine, too). Feel free to suggest any genre or demographic, although do note that I tend to avoid more "traditional" shounen series (characterized by ridiculous drawn-out fight scenes, power ups, naming their attacks/weapons, wanting to be The Best X in the World, monster-of-the-week formula, upwards of thirty volumes, weekly mags, etc.).

The only example I can think of at the moment that I'm currently reading is Barakamon. Thanks much in advance!

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"Now, everything is... just..."

writer | librarian | critic

ojojojo
buyuden

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Real and Berserk immediately come to mind. Neither of them, especially the former, follow the template you described. I've become disenchanted with Berserk over the years but Real is still one of my favorites. Plus, Inoue's art is amazing.

One of the main characters from 7 Seeds also go through such a psychological development but it takes a while to reach that point in the story, so I'm not sure if you'd be willing to wait it out so long. Still a great series, my personal favorite!

Teppuu should fit

Thanks for all the recs!! I'll be sure to check these out!

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"Now, everything is... just..."

writer | librarian | critic

I second Real.

Real has multiple protagonists, one of them definitely fits your criteria. He's so arrogant (to the point I really dislike him), then he gets broken (damn I was so happy with his misfortune), but seeing his character development so far, now he becomes my favorite from all protagonists.

And how about Onani Master Kurosawa? Not sure if it fits enough, he's not too arrogant IMO, but you should try~

I'll definitely make sure to check out Real! And Onani Master Kurosawa is one of the manga I'm embarrassed to have on my wishlist, but I've been hearing good things about it, so I'll check it out!

Komomo Confiserie also sounds good (can never stay away from some good ol' master-servant stuff), so added to the wishlist! ^^

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"Now, everything is... just..."

writer | librarian | critic