There has been a lot of talk regarding the infamous character Monkey D. Dragon.
In an anime and manga – that has proven to be adept at hiding greater plot points – Monkey D. Dragon is the kind of figure that walks the dividing line between known and unknown. As fans, we somehow are able to digest his paradoxical existence. There are very few characters in the One Piece Universe that we know so much… and yet little at the same time. So, who is Monkey D. Dragon? It is time we take a crack at it.
The “World’s Worst Criminal”
He is the father of the series’ protagonist, Monkey D. Luffy, and is the leader of the Revolutionary Army, a powerful and secretive organization aiming to overthrow the corrupt World Government and bring about significant changes to the world order. Despite his infrequent appearances in the series, Monkey D. Dragon’s influence and importance cannot be understated.
Monkey D. Dragon’s first mention occurs early in the series when Luffy’s grandfather, Monkey D. Garp, reveals his identity as Luffy’s father during a conversation with Coby. This revelation sets the stage for the intrigue and mystery surrounding Dragon’s character. If you haven’t figured it out already, he remains an elusive figure throughout much of the story. We’ll definitely be repeating that in one form or another below. His distinctively rebellious nature and strong desire for change make him a central figure in the battle between the oppressive world government and those who seek to challenge its authority.
What Happens in The Loguetown Arc?
Monkey D. Dragon made his debut during the Loguetown Arc, aiding Luffy in evading the grasp of Marine Captain Smoker. In the Loguetown Arc of One Piece, Monkey D. Dragon’s role is minimal but impactful. Loguetown is the place where Gol D. Roger, also known as the Pirate King, was executed, making it a significant location in the world of pirates. During this arc, Dragon’s presence is revealed through a brief interaction that highlights his mysterious and revolutionary nature.
Dragon is seen observing the events unfolding in Loguetown from a distance. As a storm approaches and lightning strikes, he is shown looking up at the sky with an enigmatic expression. This moment is symbolic, emphasizing his connection to the chaotic and ever-changing world, as well as his role as a revolutionary force seeking to disrupt the established order.
The significance of Dragon’s presence in Loguetown lies in its thematic resonance. Loguetown is often referred to as the place where the Great Pirate Era began with Gol D. Roger’s execution, and Dragon’s position as a leader of the Revolutionary Army signifies his intention to bring about a new era that challenges the World Government’s control. His observation of the storm foreshadows the turbulence he aims to introduce to the world order. It is not yet clear if these climate events directly correlate with his power.
Dragon’s Dark (Known) Past: Cause For Revolution
Let’s bring an example to the front to give Monkey D. Dragon’s story more color. Twelve years prior to the present storyline, Dragon revisited his birthplace, the Goa Kingdom, where he bore witness to the devastating conflagration of the Gray Terminal. The sight of his own people’s anguish, as epitomized by Sabo, deeply affected him. Sabo implored for assistance and expressed shame about his heritage. This poignant encounter prompted Dragon to devise a strategy aimed at rescuing the populace while simultaneously exposing the government’s wrongdoing. He orchestrated the creation of a passage, facilitating the escape of those residing on Trash Mountain to join his cause.
Following Sabo’s recovery from his injuries, he grappled with amnesia. Dragon disclosed his noble origins in the Goa family, yet Sabo chose to stand firm with the revolutionaries, rejecting any inclination to reconnect with his own lineage. Events like this continue to fuel Dragon’s deep disdain for the World Government (even though his bond with Sabo has recently been challenged). It seems like he is always there witnessing the desolation born out of unchecked privilege and power. Also, the humanity he sees in those that abandon titles leads him to believe cruelty is very-much a choice.
What is Monkey D. Dragon’s Legacy?
As the series progresses, fans eagerly await more information about Monkey D. Dragon’s past, motivations, and ultimate goals. His infrequent appearances and the deliberate pacing of his character’s development contribute to the anticipation surrounding his story arc. As the Revolutionary Army’s influence grows and clashes with the World Government become more frequent, it is likely that Dragon’s role in shaping the world of One Piece will become even more significant. We’re already seeing more of him in the Egghead Arc, so it’s about to get very interesting.
In conclusion, Monkey D. Dragon is a pivotal and mysterious character in the One Piece series. As the father of the protagonist, Monkey D. Luffy, and the leader of the Revolutionary Army, he stands as a symbol of resistance against the oppressive World Government and its corrupt regime. Dragon’s charismatic leadership shrouded past, and desire for fundamental change makes him a central figure in the series’ overarching narrative. While much about his character remains shrouded in secrecy, his actions and influence reverberate across the One Piece world.
We often see him almost silently shaping the plot like a Greek deity in an ancient play. This is clearly setting the stage for a potential shift in the balance of power and the realization of his vision for a freer and more just world.
