Why is Cloud so Nice to Aerith?
In the world of Final Fantasy VII, Cloud Strife is a complex character with a troubled past. Throughout the game, he displays a unique affection towards Aerith Gainsborough, a kind-hearted and innocent woman. Despite their differences, Cloud is drawn to Aerith, and this article will explore the reasons behind his unusual behavior towards her.
Cloud’s Past and Its Impact
Cloud’s troubled past has a significant impact on his behavior towards Aerith. As a former member of SOLDIER, Cloud’s experiences during his time at the elite military unit have left emotional scars. He struggles with feelings of guilt, shame, and inadequacy, which make it difficult for him to form meaningful relationships.
However, when Cloud meets Aerith, he is drawn to her kind and compassionate nature. She represents a sense of innocence and purity that Cloud lacks, and he is desperate to cling to something that reminds him of his childhood. Aerith’s naivety and optimism also serve as a stark contrast to Cloud’s dark past, making him feel drawn to her as a beacon of hope.
Cloud’s Guilt and Responsibility
Another reason for Cloud’s unusual behavior towards Aerith is his feelings of guilt and responsibility. As a result of the Nibelheim incident, Cloud feels responsible for Aerith’s presence in the world. He believes that if he had done something differently, Aerith would not be alive and would not have to face the hardships of the world.
This sense of responsibility drives Cloud to take risks and put himself in harm’s way to protect Aerith. He becomes fiercely loyal to her and will stop at nothing to keep her safe, even if it means sacrificing himself.
Cloud’s Feelings for Aerith: Love or Something Else?
Some fans of the game argue that Cloud’s feelings for Aerith are romantic, while others believe that his emotions are rooted in something deeper. While it is difficult to determine the true nature of Cloud’s feelings, it is clear that he has a deep affection for Aerith.
Cloud’s interactions with Aerith are often characterized by a sense of protectiveness and loyalty, rather than romantic love. He goes to great lengths to keep her safe and is devastated by her death, demonstrating the depth of his emotions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cloud’s behavior towards Aerith can be attributed to a complex mix of his troubled past, feelings of guilt and responsibility, and his deep affection for her. Despite their differences, Cloud is drawn to Aerith’s innocence and optimism, and his actions towards her are driven by a desire to protect and care for her.
Key Points:
• Cloud’s past experiences with SOLDIER have left emotional scars, making it difficult for him to form meaningful relationships.
• Aerith’s kind and compassionate nature represents a sense of innocence and purity that Cloud lacks.
• Cloud feels responsible for Aerith’s presence in the world and is driven to take risks to protect her.
• Cloud’s interactions with Aerith are often characterized by a sense of protectiveness and loyalty, rather than romantic love.
Table: Cloud’s Feelings for Aerith
| Characteristic | Description | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Protectiveness | Cloud is fiercely loyal to Aerith and will stop at nothing to keep her safe. | His sense of responsibility for Aerith’s presence in the world. |
| Loyalty | Cloud is dedicated to protecting and caring for Aerith. | His feelings of guilt and inadequacy drive his actions towards her. |
| Affection | Cloud has a deep affection for Aerith, but the nature of his feelings is unclear. | His interactions with Aerith are often characterized by a sense of protectiveness and loyalty rather than romantic love. |
By examining Cloud’s complex character and his relationships with Aerith, we can gain a deeper understanding of his motivations and emotions. While his feelings for Aerith may be difficult to categorize, it is clear that he is deeply invested in her well-being and is willing to go to great lengths to protect her.