Classroom of the Elite: The Smartest Characters in Anime
“Classroom of the Elite” is an anime that reinforces the school archetype of harsh realities, but in this anime, knowledge requires more than just academic intelligence. The story follows Ayanokoji and his experience in Class 1-D of Tokyo Metropolitan Advanced Nurturing High School, where only the brightest and most intelligent students can hope to reach Class A.
The anime's main characters demonstrate that being an elite student is about much more than study habits and academic intelligence. They must be complete in every aspect of their lives, both mental and physical, to excel above others. Many of the smartest students possess different types of intelligence, not necessarily associated with good grades, but still valuable in distinguishing themselves from their classmates.
1 Ayanokoji Kiyotaka: the silent protagonist
Class 1-D (1st year)
Ayanokoji Kiyotaka is the protagonist of “Classroom of the Elite” and a classic example of the saying “clothes don't make the monk”. Although he seems like a simple, quiet and reserved student, behind that facade lies an extraordinary intellect and an acute analytical capacity. Ayanokoji is able to manipulate events in his favor without others realizing it, using his intelligence and ingenuity to constantly overcome the challenges placed before him.
Ultimately, “Classroom of the Elite” is a series that highlights the fact that intelligence goes far beyond just studying and school grades. Students at Advanced Nurturing High School demonstrate that intelligence can manifest itself in different ways, creating memorable and intriguing characters. The series shows us how intelligence is a fundamental resource for navigating the highly competitive world of school, and how everyone interprets it in their own way to emerge and stand out from their classmates.
Main Characters of “Classroom of the Elite”
1. Ayanokoji Kiyotaka (Koji)
Class: 1-D (1st year) Koji, who grew up in the infamous White Room, is in Class 1-D despite being the smartest in Advanced Nurturing High School. Eager to avoid attention, he aspires to a normal life, but his exceptional intelligence, combined with deep psychological scars, makes him a complex character and far from average.
2. Yagami Takuya
Class: 1-B (2nd year) Product of the White Room, Takuya stands out for his manipulative and ruthless behavior, hidden behind a kind and reserved appearance. Kushida describes him as a "devil with a gentle face", underlining the ambivalence of his character.
3. Sakayanagi Arisu
Class: 1-A (1st year) Arisu, perceived as the queen of the school, is an exceptionally intelligent and respected student, capable of challenging Koji on an intellectual level. Her influence and charisma are such that her companions are ready to risk everything for her.
4. Amasawa Ichika
Class: 1-A (2nd year) Raised in the White Room, Ichika boasts superior intelligence and the ability to manipulate those around her. Despite her cunning, she struggles to establish lasting friendships and admires Koji from afar.
5. Koenji Rokusuke
Class: 1-D (1st year) Rokusuke is characterized by excessive self-confidence and a contemptuous attitude towards others, which makes him a terrible team player. His extraordinary intelligence makes him one of the brightest students in the school.
6. Horikita Manabu
Class: Graduate (1st year) Former student council president and Suzune's older brother, Manabu is one of the school's most insightful students. Although he is extremely strict with her sister, his goal is to see her succeed.
7. Ryuen Kakeru
Class: 1-C (1st year) Initially a true antagonist, Kakeru uses his intelligence for selfish purposes and acts more like a gang leader than a trusted member of the group. Only after a decisive defeat does he begin to recognize his mistakes.
8. Kiryuin Fuka
Class: 3-B (2nd year) Fuka is a gifted student in all areas, with excellent grades in both physical and academic activities. Although she considers herself superior to Koji, she supports him when necessary.
9. Horikita Suzune
Class: 1-D (1st year) Intelligent and brilliant, Suzune is constantly overshadowed and manipulated by Koji for his own goals. Despite this, her closeness to Koji allows her to reach her full potential.
10. Nagumo Miyabi
Class: 3-A (1st year) Nagumo is known for being a ruthless leader and for using unfair tactics to demonstrate his superiority. Aiming to surpass Manabu Horikita, he uses his role as Student Council President to pursue his own selfish interests.
These characters represent a mix of intelligence, manipulation and power, each with their own unique shade of personality and motivations, making “Classroom of the Elite” a fascinating study of character and social dynamics.
