Kisa Sohma (草摩 杞紗) is a fictional character in the anime and manga series Fruits Basket created by Natsuki Takaya. Her name is written in hiragana, and her given name means “mistletoe” while her surname means “grass demon”. Kisa is a member of the Sohma family, which is cursed to turn into animals of the Chinese zodiac when hugged by someone of the opposite sex. She is the zodiac of the tiger, and her curse causes her to transform into a small tiger cub.
Kisa is initially introduced as a shy and withdrawn girl who has been bullied at school due to her inability to speak. She is taken under the wing of Tohru Honda, the protagonist of the series, who helps her come out of her shell and learn to communicate with others. Kisa’s story arc focuses on her struggles with anxiety and trauma, and her journey towards healing and self-acceptance.
Contents
1. History
Kisa Sohma is a member of the Sohma family, one of the twelve zodiac animals in the Chinese zodiac. She is represented by the tiger and is known for her timid and shy personality. Kisa was introduced in the anime during the second season, and her story was explored in detail in the third season.
Kisa’s history reveals that she was bullied at school because of her zodiac animal and her quiet nature. She became so traumatized that she stopped speaking altogether, leading her family to worry about her well-being. Her mother eventually brought her to Shigure’s house, where she met Tohru Honda, the protagonist of the series. Tohru’s kindness and understanding helped Kisa to open up and regain her voice.
Kisa’s relationship with her zodiac animal is also explored in the anime. She is shown to have a close bond with Haru, the ox, who acts as a protective older brother figure for her. Kisa’s story arc also involves her learning to accept and love herself, despite the bullying she experienced.
Overall, Kisa’s history in Fruits Basket is a poignant and emotional journey of self-discovery and healing. Her story highlights the importance of empathy and understanding towards those who may be struggling with trauma or mental health issues.
2. Personality
Kisa Sohma is a shy and timid girl who has trouble expressing herself. She is initially introduced as a selective mute due to the trauma she experienced from being bullied at school. However, she gradually opens up to Tohru Honda, who becomes a close friend and confidant. Despite her quiet demeanor, Kisa has a strong will and is determined to overcome her fears and anxieties. She is also shown to be kind and compassionate towards others, especially those who are also struggling.
Kisa’s personality is greatly influenced by her zodiac animal, the tiger. Like a tiger, Kisa is initially fearful and defensive, but also possesses a fierce and protective nature. She is fiercely loyal to those she cares about and is willing to stand up for herself and others when necessary. Kisa’s journey throughout the series is one of growth and self-discovery as she learns to overcome her fears and embrace her true self.
3. Appearance
Kisa Sohma is a petite and delicate-looking girl with short, pale purple hair and large, expressive eyes that are usually downcast. She has a very timid and shy demeanor, which is reflected in her soft-spoken voice and her tendency to hide behind her long bangs. Kisa’s overall appearance is very youthful and innocent, which makes her stand out among the other characters in the series.
Kisa is often seen wearing a variety of cute and girly outfits, such as frilly dresses and colorful accessories. Her clothing choices reflect her sweet and gentle nature, and they also serve to accentuate her small frame. Despite her delicate appearance, Kisa is actually quite strong and resilient, as evidenced by her ability to overcome the trauma of being bullied and her willingness to stand up for herself and her friends.
In conclusion, Kisa Sohma’s appearance is one of the defining features of her character in Fruits Basket. Her small stature, timid demeanor, and cute outfits all contribute to her overall image as a gentle and innocent young girl who is struggling to find her place in the world. Despite her struggles, Kisa’s strength and resilience make her a beloved character among fans of the series.
4. Relationships
Kisa is a member of the Sohma family, and as such, she has several important relationships with other members of the family. She is particularly close to Tohru Honda, who she sees as a role model and a friend. Tohru is able to help Kisa overcome her fears and anxieties, and she becomes a source of comfort and support for Kisa throughout the series. Kisa is also close to Hiro Sohma, who is around the same age as her. Although they initially have a difficult relationship, they eventually become close friends and support each other through their struggles.
Kisa’s relationship with her mother is a complicated one. Her mother is overprotective and often tries to shield Kisa from the world, which only exacerbates Kisa’s anxieties. However, Kisa still loves her mother and wants to make her proud. She also has a good relationship with her older brother, who she looks up to and admires.
Overall, Kisa’s relationships with others are a central part of her character arc. She learns to trust and rely on those around her, and she becomes a source of support and comfort for others as well.
5. Role in the Story
Kisa Sohma is a minor character in Fruits Basket, but her presence is crucial in the development of Tohru’s relationship with the Sohma family. Kisa is introduced as a shy and timid girl who has stopped speaking due to bullying at school. Tohru takes an interest in Kisa and tries to befriend her, but Kisa’s fear of others makes it difficult for her to open up. However, with Tohru’s gentle encouragement and understanding, Kisa slowly begins to regain her confidence and trust in others.
Kisa’s story also sheds light on the curse of the Sohma family. Kisa is the tiger of the zodiac, and her transformation into a tiger is triggered by physical contact with a member of the opposite sex. This causes her to isolate herself and fear any physical contact, but Tohru’s acceptance of her curse helps Kisa accept herself as she is. Kisa’s story also sets the stage for the introduction of other zodiac members, each with their own unique curse and backstory.
Overall, Kisa’s role in the story is to show the importance of acceptance and understanding in overcoming personal struggles. Her character development also helps to further the overarching plot of the Sohma family curse and the impact it has on those who are affected by it.
6. Trivia
- Kisa’s zodiac animal is the tiger, which symbolizes bravery, power, and strength. In the Chinese zodiac, the tiger is also associated with the element of wood and the direction of east.
- Kisa’s favorite food is takoyaki, a popular Japanese snack made of octopus balls. She also likes sweet things, such as chocolate and cake.
- Kisa’s English voice actress, Caitlin Glass, also voices Haru’s mother, Michiyo Sohma, in the anime. Glass is known for her roles in other anime series, such as Fullmetal Alchemist, Ouran High School Host Club, and Attack on Titan.
- In the manga and anime, Kisa has a close friendship with Tohru Honda, who helps her overcome her fear of speaking and encourages her to be herself. Kisa also admires Tohru’s kindness and positivity.
- Kisa’s name means “little bamboo” in Japanese, which reflects her gentle and fragile nature. Her surname, Sohma, is derived from the Japanese word for “invigorating” or “refreshing,” which is a nod to the Sohma family’s ability to transform into animals.
- Kisa’s character design is based on the concept of “cute and fluffy,” with her large eyes, round face, and fluffy hair. Her tiger form is also depicted as being small and adorable, rather than fierce and intimidating. This reflects Kisa’s desire to be seen as cute and harmless, rather than scary or dangerous.