Why Did Madara Uchiha Not Maintain Edo Tensei?

Madara Uchiha, a prominent character from the series Naruto, made the choice not to maintain the Edo Tensei or immortality for several compelling reasons. This decision deeply impacted his journey and the narrative of the series.

Desire for True Power

Perhaps the most significant factor that drove Madara to abandon Edo Tensei was his desire for true power. The technique granted him immortality and regenerative abilities, but these weren't enough for the Manipulator of Shadows. Madara sought to transcend these limitations and achieve a level of power that would fulfill his grand vision.

Control Over His Fate

Another crucial motive was Madara's inherent need to control his own destiny rather than being a puppet at the mercy of another's will. The Edo Tensei technique bound the reanimated to the user's command, which Madara saw as a grave infringement on his freedom. This aligns with his overarching philosophy that true power lies in one's ability to shape their own future.

Philosophical Beliefs

Madara's complex and insightful philosophy played a major role in his decision. He viewed the cycle of life and death as inherently flawed and sought to create a world free from suffering. By rejecting Edo Tensei, Madara aimed to pursue a more profound form of existence that aligned with his deeply held beliefs.

Narrative Purpose

From a storytelling perspective, Madara's abandonment of Edo Tensei allowed the plot to progress towards the climactic events of the Fourth Great Ninja War. His actions and motivations were explored more fully, providing a richer and more dynamic narrative experience for the audience. Had he remained reanimated, the story's progression and character development would have been limited.

In summary, Madara's rejection of Edo Tensei was driven by his ambition for ultimate power, his desire for autonomy, his philosophical beliefs, and the narrative needs of the series.

Additional Insights

Besides his desire for true power and control, Madara's decision was also influenced by practical considerations. For instance, the Rinne Rebirth granted him a renewed lease on life, free from the constraints of Edo Tensei. This meant Madara could experience the world in a more direct and personal manner, including 'feeling his beating heart.'

Beyond that, Madara needed to be alive to play a crucial role in his plan to become the Ten-Tails Jinchūriki and activate the Infinite Tsukyomi technique. This was an essential step in fulfilling his ultimate goal of dominating the world, which required his being in a physical form rather than a reanimated entity.

Understanding these nuances helps to appreciate the multifaceted nature of Madara's character and the intricate plot of Naruto. His decisions and actions were a blend of philosophical ideals, personal desires, and narrative necessities that contributed to the rich and engrossing storyline of the series.