| Arlong | |
|---|---|
| Name | Arlong |
| First | Chapter 69; Episode 31 |
| Creator | Eiichiro Oda |
| Voiced by | Takeshi Aono (Japanese), Chris Rager (English) |
| Alias | Saw-Tooth Arlong |
| Species | Fishman |
| Occupation | Pirate, former member of the Sun Pirates |
| Affiliation | Arlong Pirates |
Arlong
Arlong is a significant character in the One Piece series, a popular Japanese manga and anime created by Eiichiro Oda. As the captain of the Arlong Pirates, Arlong plays a crucial role in the storyline, particularly in the East Blue arc. His character introduces the concept of Fishmen and their struggles against humans, adding depth to the One Piece world. Arlong's actions and beliefs have a profound impact on the main characters, especially Monkey D. Luffy and Roronoa Zoro.
Arlong is a powerful Fishman and the captain of the Arlong Pirates, a crew that terrorizes the East Blue. He is known for his exceptional strength, speed, and agility, making him a formidable opponent in combat. Arlong's appearance is characterized by his saw-toothed nose and sharp teeth, which are typical features of Fishmen. His personality is marked by his arrogance, cruelty, and hatred towards humans, whom he believes are inferior to Fishmen. Arlong's backstory and motivations are deeply connected to his experiences with humans, particularly his time as a member of the Sun Pirates under the leadership of Jinbe.
Arlong's past is closely tied to the Sun Pirates and their captain, Jinbe. He was once a member of the crew but left after disagreeing with Jinbe's decision to work with humans. Arlong's hatred for humans stems from the discrimination and violence he suffered at their hands. He believes that Fishmen are superior and should rule over humans. Arlong's history with Jinbe and the Sun Pirates is complex, involving a deep sense of betrayal and resentment. This backstory is crucial in understanding Arlong's actions and motivations throughout the series, particularly in his interactions with Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates.
Arlong possesses incredible physical strength, speed, and agility, which are characteristic of Fishmen. He is also skilled in combat, using his sharp teeth and powerful jaws to devastating effect. Arlong's abilities make him a formidable opponent, capable of taking on and defeating powerful enemies. His strength is often compared to that of Roronoa Zoro, one of the main characters known for his exceptional swordsmanship. Arlong's powers are also influenced by his Fishman physiology, which grants him enhanced senses and the ability to survive underwater. This combination of physical and physiological abilities makes Arlong a significant threat in the One Piece world.
Arlong plays a pivotal role in the East Blue arc of the One Piece series. His actions drive the plot forward, particularly in the Arlong Park Arc, where he and his crew terrorize a town, leading to a confrontation with Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates. Arlong's character serves as a catalyst for the themes of racism, discrimination, and the struggle for power and recognition. His interactions with Monkey D. Luffy and Roronoa Zoro are especially significant, as they challenge his beliefs and force him to confront his own prejudices. Arlong's role in the series also highlights the complexities of the One Piece world, where characters like Jinbe and Fisher Tiger play important roles in shaping the narrative.
Arlong's relationships with other characters are complex and multifaceted. His past with Jinbe and the Sun Pirates is marked by conflict and betrayal. Arlong's interactions with Monkey D. Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates are adversarial, driven by his hatred for humans and his desire for power. However, his character also serves as a foil to Roronoa Zoro, highlighting their differences in strength, philosophy, and approach to combat. Arlong's relationships with other Fishmen, such as Hatchan and Octopako, are also significant, as they reflect the broader themes of identity, community, and the struggle for recognition and respect.
Arlong's impact on the One Piece world is profound, extending beyond his immediate actions and interactions. His character serves as a symbol of the discrimination and violence faced by Fishmen and other marginalized groups. Arlong's beliefs and actions challenge the main characters and the reader to consider the complexities of power, identity, and community. The aftermath of Arlong's defeat and the resolution of the Arlong Park Arc have lasting effects on the characters and the world of One Piece, influencing the narrative and character development in subsequent arcs. Arlong's legacy continues to shape the One Piece world, particularly in the context of the Fishman Island Arc and the New Fishman Pirates.