Why JoJo Characters Evolved from Muscular in Part 4 and Onwards

Josha is a beloved manga series known for its colorful and dynamic characters, each with their own unique quirks and backgrounds. Starting with 'Stardust Crusaders' (Part 3) and moving into 'Diamond is Unbreakable' (Part 4) and beyond, Hirohiko Araki, the creator of the Jojo universe, dramatically altered the character designs. This article explores the reasons behind this transformation and its impact on the narrative and visual appeal of the series.

Artistic Evolution

Part of the shift in character design can be attributed to Hirohiko Araki’s personal growth as an artist. Having experimented with a broad range of styles, Araki’s art evolved from a focus on muscular, imposing figures to a more diverse and fashion-influenced aesthetic.

Artwork from earlier parts, like the muscular figures of Part 1, gradually transformed into more varied and fashion-conscious designs in later parts. This artistic evolution reflects an insatiable desire to innovate and bring fresh perspectives to the series, allowing characters to better fit the evolving storylines and themes.

Thematic Shift

The narrative of Jojo manga underwent a major thematic shift as well, moving away from a focus solely on physical battles. As parts progressed, the series introduced a broader array of character roles and backgrounds, necessitating a more diverse range of character designs.

This diversification allowed for a more nuanced portrayal of characters, each embodying unique traits and backgrounds. For example, characters like Koichi, who is relatively short and muscular, contrast with the more slender and fashion-forward designs of later parts, such as Part 4 and beyond. This variation enriches the narrative tapestry, offering a more dynamic and relatable cast of characters.

Fashion Influence

Hirohiko Araki has often cited fashion as a significant influence on his character designs. The latest parts of Jojo manga incorporate contemporary fashion trends, resulting in more stylized and slender character designs. This is evident in the more feminine and contemporary appearances of characters that deviate from the bulky, muscle-focused designs of earlier parts.

Characters like Jotaro in Part 4 are more slender and more feminine in proportion, while still maintaining a muscular core. Even in later parts such as 'Kindaichi's Torments' (Part 5), where the characters are less buff, they are more realistic and stylish, fitting the modern aesthetic sensibilities of the manga series.

Conclusion

The evolution of character designs from muscular to more varied and feminine in Jojo manga highlights both an artistic and thematic progression. This evolution not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the series but also better suits the diverse and evolving narrative, making the characters more relatable and authentic to their settings. As Jojo continues to captivate audiences, these characters are a testament to the versatility and innovation of Hirohiko Araki's artistic vision.