# Berserk Official Guidebook
## Introduction
- Overview of *Berserk* as a franchise
- Manga and anime influence
- Importance of the guidebook for fans
- Author's notes by Kentaro Miura
- Insights into the creation of *Berserk*
- Reflections on characters, themes, and world-building
## Part I: Characters
- Main Characters
- Guts: The Black Swordsman
- Background and motivations
- Key moments in his journey
- Griffith: The White Hawk
- Ambition and transformation
- Relationship with Guts
- Casca
- Her role in the Band of the Hawk
- Struggles and development
- Supporting Characters
- The Band of the Hawk
- Key members and their roles
- Dynamics within the group
- Antagonists
- Apostles and their origins
- God Hand and their schemes
- Minor Characters
- Allies and enemies encountered throughout the series
- Their impact on the story
## Part II: Creatures
- Demons and Apostles
- Origins and transformations
- Notable Apostles and their abilities
- Beasts and Monsters
- Unique creatures in the *Berserk* universe
- Symbolism and horror elements
- The God Hand
- Members and their roles
- Influence on the story’s events
## Part III: Settings
- Major Locations
- Midland and its political landscape
- Other kingdoms and territories
- Key Battlefields
- Eclipse and its aftermath
- Iconic fight scenes and their settings
- Fantasy and Dark Fantasy Worlds
- Transition from the physical to the astral plane
- Representation of hellish realms
## Part IV: Stories
- Summary of Volumes 1–38
- Key plot points and arcs
- Themes explored in each volume
- Storytelling Techniques
- Miura’s narrative style
- Use of foreshadowing and symbolism
- Shocking Horror and Graveyard Humor
- Examples of horror elements
- Instances of dark humor
## Part V: Art and Illustrations
- Never-Before-Seen Art
- Exclusive sketches and designs
- Insights into Miura’s creative process
- Eight-Page Color Section
- Highlights of key artwork
- Commentary on color usage
- Character Designs
- Evolution of character appearances
- Symbolism in costumes and weapons
## Part VI: Appendices
- Timeline of Events
- Chronological order of major events
- Connections between arcs
- Glossary of Terms
- Definitions of terms unique to *Berserk*
- Explanations of cultural and mythological references
- Index of Characters and Creatures
- Quick reference guide
- Page numbers for appearances
## Conclusion
- Reflection on *Berserk*’s Legacy
- Impact on manga and anime
- Enduring popularity among mature readers
- Final Thoughts from Kentaro Miura
- His vision for the series
- Messages to fans