Why Did Kishimoto Use Kaguya to Kill Madara in Naruto?

One of the most pivotal moments in the Naruto series was the introduction of Kaguya ōtsutsuki, a character whose actions had a profound impact on the story's narrative direction. Many fans and critics have pondered the motivations behind Masashi Kishimoto's decision to have Kaguya kill Madara Uchiha. Let's delve into the strategic narrative choices made by Kishimoto.

Introducing a Greater Threat

Kaguya's appearance in the series elevated the stakes of the story significantly. While Madara Uchiha was a powerful and formidable antagonist, his motivations and actions were rooted in human desires and emotions. On the other hand, Kaguya, being an ancient and god-like figure, introduced a cosmic level of conflict that shifted the focus of the story.
Instead of just another battle among shinobi, the narrative became a struggle against a being with vast powers and a different set of motivations. This transformation allowed Kishimoto to delve deeper into themes of power, control, and the unpredictable nature of power dynamics.

Thematic Exploration of Power and Control

Kaguya’s actions were instrumental in exploring themes of power and control. Madara, who sought to control the world through the Infinite Tsukuyomi, was ultimately outmatched by someone who embodied the essence of the chakra he sought to manipulate. This serves as a powerful commentary on the limits of ambition and the unpredictability of power dynamics.
Madara's defeat by Kaguya represented the idea that no matter how much power a character may possess, external forces or powerful beings can still challenge and overcome them. This theme adds depth and complexity to the narrative, making the story more engaging and thought-provoking.

Narrative Closure for Madara

Having Kaguya kill Madara allowed for a more dramatic and final conclusion to his arc. Madara's death positioned him as a pawn in a larger game, emphasizing that even the most powerful figures can be outmaneuvered. This storyline transitioned the focus of the story to the remaining protagonists' struggle against Kaguya, setting the stage for a more intense and emotionally charged narrative.
The strategic use of Kaguya as a closing force for Madara's storyline provided the narrative with a sense of resolution while also creating a new and formidable challenge for the remaining characters.

Role in the Lore

By eliminating Madara, Kishimoto linked the past and the present of the Naruto universe. Kaguya's role as the progenitor of chakra tied the narrative threads together, enriching the overall story's lore. This connection underscores the importance of chakra and its origins, making the story more cohesive and compelling.
Kaguya's presence also highlighted the cyclical nature of power in the Naruto universe, where strong forces inevitably face new and powerful challenges.

To Introduce the Otsutsuki

In the series Boruto, the Otsutsuki, particularly Kaguya, play a crucial role. Many of the Otsutsuki are portrayed as almost universally more powerful than Madara. Kaguya, being one of the weaker Otsutsuki alongside Hagoromo, served as a stepping stone in the narrative leading up to the characters in Boruto who are even more powerful.
Their introduction as a greater threat provided a direct contrast to the characters in the original series, allowing for a seamless transition to the new era. Kaguya's appearance as a foreshadowing of what was to come in Boruto served to set the stage for the more powerful antagonists that would emerge in the series.

Conclusion

In summary, Kishimoto's decision to have Kaguya ōtsutsuki kill Madara was a masterful narrative choice. It deepened the story's thematic elements, introduced a formidable new antagonist, provided closure to Madara’s arc, and set the stage for the final battles of the series. This strategic use of characters underscores the importance of strategic storytelling in engaging and resonant narratives.