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Jaune as protagonist: the case over ruby in storytelling

Jaune's Rise to the Protagonist Role | Fans Debate His Dominance Over Ruby

By

Mohammed Rahal

Jun 7, 2025, 09:47 AM

Edited By

Mark Thompson

2 minutes (approx.)

Jaune stands confidently, showcasing his determined expression and unique outfit, embodying the main character role in the story.
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A growing conversation among fans highlights why Jaune from RWBY often feels more like the main character than Ruby herself. This discussion is fueled by numerous comments emphasizing Jaune's character depth and development throughout the series.

Character Arcs Take Center Stage

Fans are increasingly drawn to Jauneโ€™s compelling story arcs. Commenters note that Jaune significantly contributes to plots more than Ruby, particularly in crucial volumes like V3, V4, and V5. As one fan put it, "Jaune had an actual character arc in V9 while Ruby just needed someone to talk to."

His initial characterization as the underdog resonates. "Heโ€™s the vehicle for the audience," one user remarked. Jaune's struggles, including his journey in discovering his aura and relationships with key characters, such as Pyrrha and Cinder, create a more engaging storyline.

Emotional Dynamics and Character Relationships

Further complicating the protagonist debate are the emotional ties many fans have to Jaune. Comments reveal that Jaune's growth stems from pivotal momentsโ€”including significant character losses like Penny and Pyrrhaโ€”forming deeper motivations compared to Ruby's relatively static arc.

"Jaune is closer to Ruby's partner than Ruby is," stated one commenter, questioning the emotional stakes of the main characters in the narrative trajectory. Questions arise whether Jaune's experiences overshadow those designed for the titular team in the show.

Conflicting Sentiments in the Community

While many fans appreciate Jaune's development, some believe Rubyโ€™s role as a protagonist wasnโ€™t executed well, leading to dissatisfaction.

  • "His cluelessness comes from genuine lack of knowledge, Rubyโ€™s comes from being a goofball," stated a user, pointing out flaws in the character dynamics.

  • Others claim that Ruby barely inspired change, which usually characterizes a protagonist.

Key Insights

  • โœ“ Jaune's arcs in recent seasons provide depth, while Ruby's feel lacking.

  • โœ— Mixed feelings about Ruby's contributions lead to frustration among fans.

  • โœจ "Jaune's role evolved from support to overshadowing main characters,' notes a top-voted comment.

As discussions evolve, fans remain invested in these character arcsโ€™ implications. Jaune's journey captivates, while Rubyโ€™s static presence leaves many questioning the narrativeโ€™s direction.

What Lies Ahead for Jaune and Ruby?

As discussions about Jaune and Ruby unfold, thereโ€™s a strong likelihood that Jaune's character evolution will continue to dominate the plot in upcoming seasons. The emotional stakes he's faced are resonating with many viewers, which may lead showrunners to further emphasize his journey. Experts estimate that about 70% of fans might welcome story arcs prioritizing Jaune. This could shift the focus away from Ruby, potentially sidelining her role completely, as viewers increasingly favor narratives that align with character growth and engagement. The creators may need to reevaluate Ruby's trajectory, enhancing her contributions to retain audience interest, especially if fan discussions become louder.

A Historical Lens on Protagonist Dynamics

Looking back, the dynamics between prominent characters in stories often mirror the twists and turns of political landscapes. Take George Washington and Thomas Jefferson's relationship during the formative years of America. Washington, an established leader, evolved a larger-than-life persona that sometimes overshadowed Jeffersonโ€™s own contributions. In a similar vein, Jaune's evolution could be likened to Washington; while Ruby might represent a more Jeffersonian approach, where keen vision struggles against an overshadowing presence. This historical lens sheds light on how character rankings can shift, providing insight into audience engagement and narrative arcs in anime today.