Why did Cloud become an ex SOLDIER?

Why did Cloud become an ex SOLDIER?

Cloud Strife, the main protagonist of Final Fantasy VII, has a tumultuous past that is filled with questions and contradictions. One of the most significant events that shapes his character is his rejection from the prestigious SOLDIER unit of the megacorporation Shinra. This article will delve into the reasons why Cloud became an ex-SOLDIER and explore the underlying motivations and complexities of his character.

Failed Expectations

Cloud’s aspirations to join the SOLDIER unit began at a young age. He was heavily influenced by his idol, Zack Fair, who was a successful member of SOLDIER. Cloud saw Zack as a role model and aspired to emulate his achievements. However, Cloud’s attempts to join SOLDIER were met with rejection. This rejection came as a shock to Cloud, as he had always believed that he was good enough to join the unit.

Low Confidence and Self-Doubt

The rejection from SOLDIER deeply affected Cloud’s self-confidence. He began to question his abilities and doubted his own worth. This led to a sense of inadequacy that would haunt him for the rest of his life. Cloud’s lack of self-confidence is evident in his constant struggle to prove himself, often to the point of obsession.

Traumatic Experiences

Cloud’s experiences in the life-or-death missions he was sent on, particularly the events of Nibelheim, left him with lasting emotional scars. The traumatic events of that fateful day, including the death of his friend Zack, led to Cloud developing a sense of survivor’s guilt and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This trauma would continue to haunt him, manifesting in his erratic behavior and feelings of guilt and shame.

JENOVA Cells and Illusions

The JENOVA cells injected into Cloud’s body as part of a failed experiment further complicated his situation. These cells altered his DNA, making him stronger and more agile, but also created illusions in his mind. The illusion of being a member of SOLDIER, including his supposed 1st Class ranking, was one of the most significant. This illusion became a source of comfort for Cloud, allowing him to momentarily escape his past traumas.

Rebuilding and Redemption

In the aftermath of Sephiroth’s betrayal and the downfall of Shinra, Cloud is left to pick up the pieces of his shattered past. He joins AVALANCHE, an anti-Shinra group, and begins to rebuild his sense of purpose. Throughout the game, Cloud struggles to come to terms with his past and find redemption. His journey is marked by moments of self-discovery and growth, as he learns to confront his traumas and find a new sense of self.

Conclusion

Cloud’s path to becoming an ex-SOLDIER was marked by failure, trauma, and self-doubt. However, his journey is also one of resilience and redemption. Despite his complex and often troubled past, Cloud emerges as a powerful and compassionate character who is driven by a desire to make a positive impact on the world.

Important Points:

• Low Confidence and Self-Doubt: Cloud’s rejection from SOLDIER and subsequent traumatic experiences led to a lifelong struggle with self-doubt and low confidence.
• Traumatic Experiences: The events of Nibelheim, including the death of Zack, left Cloud with lasting emotional scars and PTSD.
• JENOVA Cells and Illusions: The JENOVA cells injected into Cloud’s body created illusions in his mind, including the illusion of being a member of SOLDIER.
• Rebuilding and Redemption: Cloud’s journey is marked by moments of self-discovery and growth as he learns to confront his traumas and find a new sense of purpose.

Table: Cloud’s Emotional Development

Note: | represents a presence or increase in the emotion, while | represents an absence or decrease.