Vegeta’s character arc is one of the most fascinating and unique in Dragon Ball. Originally introduced to showcase that the Saiyan race was inherently bloodthirsty warmongers, the Prince of all Saiyans was made to look like the epitome of all evil.
As the narrative progressed, he went from being the merciless Saiyan prince who wiped out entire civilizations (for Frieza) to a man who gets made fun of and is a dedicated father and a husband.
Unlike most shonen anti-heroes, whose change is noticed by the fans and not mentioned, Vegeta’s transformation was a massive event, and it was acknowledged within the story itself. Dragon Ball was breaking the 4th wall to poke fun at Vegeta from a different series in the franchise.
From ruthless conqueror to a caring family man
Most Shonen anime play it safe and slow when it comes to redemption arcs. There is a lot of emotion involved, and reasons are given as to why it is happening, and so on. Not for Vegeta; it felt like one day, evil Vegeta went to grab a sandwich, and he was caught by Bulma.
From then onwards, nothing has been the same. Vegeta managed to integrate into human society almost imperceptibly. It often goes noticed how hard it is for him to restrain himself and let things go. His patience, dedication, and love for his family are what made him completely turn for the better.
There is usually no reflection and mention after an antagonist has been redeemed, but Vegeta’s change needed to be acknowledged, both by the fans and the Z fighters.
In the movie Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods, the attention is focused on Vegeta when everyone seems to realize how well he has fit in and how he helped them thwart many threats.
The 4th Wall Breaking Element
Krillin calls him a ‘model citizen,’ which might be true. Vegeta is extremely respected even when he pretends to be a normal human. The Z fighters start clapping for Vegeta, but the prideful Saiyan cannot help but get enraged (he is shy and embarrassed).
Dragon Ball chose to actively highlight how much Vegeta softened, from being someone who would kill on sight to someone who can bear the brunt of a few jokes, take care of children, and protect his loved ones (even if, until a few years back, they were complete strangers).
Being a good person is not easy, and it is usually taken for granted, especially in a Shonen anime, where the whole point is a group of people who are constantly saving the world or universe.
But by appreciating Vegeta becoming good and turning over a new leaf, the Z fighters acknowledge the many struggles and sacrifices that Vegeta had to go through to get to where he was. This feels like a 4th-wall breaking moment because it shows us how he was transformed while alluding to his numerous changes through the many installments in the franchise.
Dragon Ball anime is available to stream on Crunchyroll.
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