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In Masashi Kishimoto’s widely popular anime and manga series, Naruto, the characters, including the titular hero Naruto and his fellow shinobi, face intense trials and challenges that would test even the most seasoned ninjas. The world they inhabit is marked by frequent wars and death, with ninjas embarking on perilous missions, often facing uncertain returns.
Sasuke Uchiha, one of Naruto’s comrades, undergoes profound trauma as a child when his brother Itachi annihilates their entire clan. Spared by Itachi, Sasuke becomes determined to grow stronger and seeks revenge for the Uchiha clan. Such a burden is immense for someone barely in their early teens, as Sasuke is at the beginning of the series.
In the initial part of Naruto, Sasuke is a mere 12 or 13 years old, similar in age to Naruto, Sakura, and their peers. Despite his youth, Sasuke exhibits remarkable skills, such as awakening his Sharingan on his first real mission and mastering techniques like Chidori. The decisions Sasuke makes, such as joining Orochimaru and engaging in a fierce battle with Naruto at the Valley of the End, may seem immature to some fans. However, considering his age during these events sheds light on the perspective of a child thrust into such challenging circumstances.
In Naruto Shippuden, Sasuke reappears at around 16 or 17 years old, having undergone significant changes during the time skip. Under Orochimaru’s guidance, Sasuke hones his skills, nearly endangering his former teammates when they cross paths again. Leaving Orochimaru, Sasuke confronts his brother Itachi in a battle that reshapes his destiny. Despite Itachi’s greater experience, the fight showcases Sasuke’s remarkable growth, challenging the notion that he is just a teenager.
By the conclusion of Naruto Shippuden, Sasuke and his peers have evolved substantially, emerging as formidable shinobi following the war with Madara. In Boruto: Naruto Next Generations, Sasuke, now aged around 32 or 33, plays a less prominent role. Seeking redemption for his past actions, Sasuke is mostly absent from the series. Despite this, his relationship with his daughter Sarada reflects a loving and caring father, potentially breaking the cycle of hatred that has plagued the Uchiha clan for generations.