Why are the Masses so Cruel?
Why do the masses in stories always betray and stone the protagonist?
Have you ever felt frustrated watching anime or movies, thinking: 'These mobs helped so much, yet they're so ungrateful?' In fact, there's a universal narrative reason why they're depicted as 'foolish' and 'cruel'.
1. The Narrative Engine: A Device to Drive the Story
The more foolish the mobs (crowds) are, the more dramatic effect is created in the story.
Proof of 'Nobility'
In a hopeless situation where no one understands and stones are thrown, the protagonist's 'conviction' shines with divine brilliance by not breaking.
Catharsis Booster
By building up hatred thoroughly at first, the moment the truth is revealed and the masses flip their hands in regret is maximized for exhilaration.
Personification of 'Weakness'
They are not 'evil'. They are a characterization of the 'human weakness' that everyone has—swept away by group psychology and trembling with fear.
2. Classic 'Hateable' Tropes: Universal Patterns
Regardless of culture, the 'unreasonable behavior' of mobs tormenting heroes follows common patterns.
Instant Betrayal
Those called 'savior' yesterday are instantly thrown into prison based on baseless rumors.
Irresponsible Stone-Throwing
Safe in their positions, they criticize the protagonist's methods while risking nothing themselves.
Blind Faith in Authority
They ignore those fighting for truth and fanatically believe in flashy authorities with loud voices.
3. Fiction Meets Reality: What Stories Teach Us
It's easy to laugh at mobs in stories as 'terrible people'. But pause for a moment and consider:
If we were inhabitants of a story world with limited information, caught in a panicked crowd—could we truly say we wouldn't throw stones at the protagonist?
The ugliness of mobs depicted in anime might be a gentle yet sharp warning about the 'runaway group psychology' we unconsciously engage in within modern society.
4. Join the Discussion
Share the scene that angered you most, or your thoughts on mob psychology in reality.
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