Griffith—one of the most compelling characters in the manga universe—stands at the heart of Berserk, embodying both brilliance and betrayal. His rise to glory and subsequent fall into darkness is not just a personal tragedy but a defining turning point in the entire Berserk saga.
From Dreamer to Commander
Griffith is introduced as the charismatic leader of the Band of the Hawk, a mercenary group that quickly earns fame across Midland. With an almost divine presence, intellect, and unmatched ambition, Griffith captures not just lands but the hearts of his followers—especially Guts and Casca.
His dream? To own a kingdom. A goal he openly shares, believing that those who walk beside him must have dreams of their own—or become mere tools in his pursuit.
The Bond with Guts
Griffith’s relationship with Guts is the emotional core of Berserk. Guts is the only man who challenges him as an equal, and their bond becomes something more than just camaraderie—it becomes obsession, admiration, and silent rivalry. Griffith’s downfall begins the moment Guts leaves him in search of his own path. The moment Guts walks away, Griffith loses control.
The Eclipse: Griffith’s Ultimate Betrayal
In a desperate attempt to reclaim his dream after imprisonment and torture, Griffith activates the crimson Behelit and sacrifices his loyal Band of the Hawk. What follows is the infamous Eclipse—a horrific scene where his comrades are slaughtered by apostles and Griffith is reborn as Femto, one of the God Hand.
He even assaults Casca, forever severing the trust and humanity he once held.
Femto: A New God, A Hollow Soul
As Femto, Griffith becomes a god-like being, emotionless and consumed by causality. He manipulates events from the shadows, builds the new Falcon of Light persona, and wins the people’s admiration once again. But this Griffith is not the man who once smiled under the sun with his comrades. He is now a being of fate, not free will.
Final Thoughts
Griffith’s character arc is one of the most tragic in manga history. He begins as an idealistic warrior with a noble goal but succumbs to the darkness of ambition and fate. In trying to claim his kingdom, he sacrifices everything that made him human.