One Piece Chapter 1031: A Thematic Breakdown

 

Chapter 1005 of One Piece was the best chapter of Onigashima thus far, until chapter 1031. Both of these chapters encompass fantastic character development for Sanji. Sanji was never meant to go against his absurd chivalrous nature when pitted against a female in 1005. The pathetic situation he got himself into was never a setup for him to change his ways a kick a woman, but to display his changed perception of himself. The previous arc of Whole Cake Island saw Sanji refusing to rely on his comrades to help him in his situation. This wasn't because he didn't trust in Luffy and the crew's success, but because he didn't believe he was worth the risk. Sanji lacked self-worth because of his traumatic past. Running away from it as a child only scarred him. Whole Cake Island was all about Sanji facing his past and confronting his lack of self-worth. Luffy showed him his value, and in chapter 1005 Sanji finally demonstrates that he finally sees value in himself as well. He asks Robin for help even knowing the risk it could pose to her. This response to his life in peril is the exact opposite of what it has been all throughout the story.

This character development is continued in chapter 1031. Sanji kicked a woman not of his own volition. He kicked an innocent and defenseless woman. The science Sanji has been using out of a concession to help his friends turns against him. It awakened the same traits his brothers have, the brothers he despises. Sanji thought he could swallow his pride and borrow their power if it meant becoming strong enough to become a hero, but after standing above a bleeding and horrified woman, he only looks like a villain that's lost his way.

Sanji decides to never make a concession again for the sake of power. While there is more risk for his comrades in discarding useful abilities, what good are those abilities if Sanji eventually becomes almost unrecognizable to them as a friend? Sanji doesn't need his family. He doesn't need their depraved weapons. He only needs his legs for kicking and the fiery passion behind them.