Whis (Character) - Dragon Ball

Introduction

Whis, created by the renowned manga and anime artist Akira Toriyama, is a pivotal character in the Dragon Ball series, particularly in the Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods movie and the subsequent Dragon Ball Super series. Introduced in the 2013 film Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods, Whis is an angel and the attendant to the God of Destruction of Universe 7, Lord Beerus. His unique appearance, characterized by pale blue skin, white hair, and violet eyes, sets him apart from other characters in the series^[1][2].

Whis’s backstory is deeply intertwined with his role as an angel, a race of divine beings with immense strength and abilities, designed to serve their respective deities. He has an elder sister, Vados, who is the attendant of the God of Destruction of Universe 6, Champa. Whis’s relationship with Vados is significant, as she trained him for many years before stopping^[2].

Whis’s defining traits include his peaceful, aloof, and calm personality, which contrasts with his eccentric and sometimes absent-minded nature. He is known for his carefree attitude and his ability to remain unphased by most events, unless they directly involve Beerus^[1][3].

Role in the Story

Whis’s storyline is intricately linked with that of Beerus and the broader narrative of Dragon Ball Super. Initially, Whis appears as the attendant of Beerus, guiding him and attempting to correct his manners and behavior. One of the earliest significant events involving Whis is when Beerus awakens from his long slumber and begins searching for the Super Saiyan God, a being from his dreams^[2].

Throughout the series, Whis plays a crucial role in training Goku and Vegeta, helping them achieve the form known as Super Saiyan Blue. He accompanies them to various key events, such as the tournament between Universe 6 and Universe 7, where he observes and sometimes intervenes in the battles^[1].

One of the most critical moments involving Whis is during the conflict with Frieza, where he uses his abilities to transport Goku and his friends, allowing them to turn back time and defeat Frieza after the Earth had been destroyed^[1].

Whis’s relationships with other characters are multifaceted. His bond with Beerus is that of a mentor and a caretaker, often trying to manage Beerus’s destructive tendencies. With Goku and Vegeta, he acts as a trainer and guide, helping them reach new heights of power. His interactions with other characters, such as Bulma and the gods of destruction, further highlight his unique personality and role in the narrative^[1][2].

Character Analysis

Whis’s personality is a blend of tranquility and eccentricity. He is often depicted as being very insightful and carefree, rarely getting surprised by events unless they involve Beerus directly. This calm demeanor, however, can sometimes be misleading, as Whis is incredibly powerful and has a deep understanding of the universe and its workings^[1][3].

One of Whis’s most compelling traits is his ability to balance his duties as an attendant with his own interests and quirks. He is known to visit Bulma and try new foods, showing a lighter side to his character. Despite his effeminate features and sometimes questionable priorities, Whis remains a figure of authority and wisdom^[1][2].

Whis’s motivations are largely centered around his duty to Beerus and the maintenance of balance in the universe. He is not driven by personal ambition but rather by a sense of responsibility and care for his student. This selfless nature makes him a relatable and admirable character^[1][2].

Themes and Symbolism

Whis embodies several key themes in the Dragon Ball series. One of the most significant is the theme of balance and order. As an angel, Whis is tasked with ensuring that the God of Destruction does not cause unnecessary chaos, symbolizing the need for balance between power and restraint^[1][2].

Another theme Whis represents is the power of mentorship and guidance. Through his training of Goku and Vegeta, Whis illustrates the importance of mentorship in achieving greatness. His relationship with Beerus also highlights the complexities of teaching and guiding powerful beings^[1].

Whis also symbolizes the idea of calm and wisdom in the face of chaos. His unflappable nature serves as a contrast to the intense battles and dramatic events of the series, reminding viewers of the value of tranquility and foresight^[1][3].

Cultural Impact

Whis has had a significant cultural impact since his introduction. Fans of the Dragon Ball series have been drawn to his unique personality and powerful abilities, making him a favorite among many. His appearance in various adaptations and spin-offs, including movies and video games, has further solidified his place in popular culture^[1][2].

Whis’s influence can also be seen in fan art, cosplay, and fan fiction, where he is often depicted in creative and imaginative ways. His character has inspired new interpretations and reimaginings, reflecting his enduring appeal to audiences^[2].

Critical Reception

Critics and audiences have generally praised Whis for his intriguing character design and his role in the narrative. His introduction in Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods was well-received, with many appreciating the dynamic he brought to the series. His continued presence in Dragon Ball Super has maintained this positive reception, with fans appreciating his complex personality and significant contributions to the story^[1][3].

However, some critics have noted that Whis’s character, along with Beerus, can sometimes feel detached from the main storyline, particularly in episodes where their antics overshadow the main plot. Despite this, Whis remains a beloved character, and his unique traits have been widely praised^[5].

Legacy

Whis’s legacy in the Dragon Ball series is profound. He has introduced a new layer of complexity to the narrative, highlighting the roles of angels and the gods of destruction in the universe. His character has inspired other works and character archetypes, particularly in the realm of anime and manga^[1][2].

Whis’s enduring appeal lies in his multifaceted personality and his significant contributions to the story. He continues to be a topic of discussion among fans and critics, reflecting his relevance in contemporary discussions about character development and narrative depth.