Tohru grows close to Ritsu, a deeply anxious Sohma who dresses in women's clothing to steady his nerves, and their conversations give him a push toward believing he can do better.
Summary
A gentle friendship forms between Tohru and Ritsu, whose crippling nervousness and shaky sense of self lead him to wear women's clothing as a way to calm down. Talking with Tohru stirs something hopeful in him, and he starts to feel encouraged toward trying harder at life.
Key Events
Tohru and Ritsu bond as his severe anxiety and self-confidence struggles come to light. Her words leave him inspired to work on himself and aim for change.
Notes
This is the second chapter of the eighth volume and the forty-fourth overall. Hatori Sohma appears in the chapter, while Ayame and Hatsuharu are only mentioned. Shigure Sohma is the cover character.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Chapter 44 reveal about Ritsu Sohma?
Chapter 44 shows that Ritsu Sohma suffers from crippling anxiety and a shaky sense of self, and that he wears women's clothing as a way to calm his nerves.
How does Tohru help Ritsu in this chapter?
Talking with Tohru stirs something hopeful in Ritsu during Chapter 44, encouraging him to believe he can try harder and work toward change.
Why does Ritsu wear women's clothing?
According to Chapter 44, Ritsu wears women's clothing as a coping method for his severe nervousness and struggles with self-confidence.
Which characters are mentioned but do not appear in Chapter 44?
Chapter 44 mentions Ayame and Hatsuharu Sohma without showing them directly, while Hatori Sohma does appear in the chapter.
Where does Chapter 44 fall in the manga and who is on the cover?
Chapter 44 is the second chapter of Volume 8 and the forty-fourth chapter overall, running twenty-nine pages with Shigure Sohma on the cover.
Sources & Information
Looking for more on Chapter 44? The Fruits Basket Wiki on Fandom has a dedicated page with community notes.
View on FandomThis content is original writing by Daddy Jim Anime based on the Fruits Basket anime series, manga, and official materials. Fruits Basket was created by Natsuki Takaya, published by Hakusensha, and animated by TMS Entertainment. All rights to Fruits Basket and its characters belong to their respective owners. Episode and chapter references are cited where applicable.
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- Created byNatsuki Takaya
- Published byHakusensha
- Animated byTMS Entertainment
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