After passing his graduation exam in the first episode, Naruto Uzumaki is officially a ninja, though he still struggles with being an outcast. While attempting to get his registration photo taken (and annoying the Third Hokage with his elaborate war paint), Naruto is "attacked" by a young boy named , the Hokage's grandson 18 , 9 .
Konohamaru is frustrated by his life as the "Honorable Grandson," feeling that no one sees him as an individual—only as a relative of the village leader 8 . Unlike the other villagers who coddle or fear the boy, Naruto treats him like any other brat, even smacking him on the head 9. Impressed by Naruto's bluntness and his "Sexy Jutsu," Konohamaru begs Naruto to become his "boss" and teach him the technique. Naruto Episode 2
Fans often view this as a "character-building" episode rather than a "plot-heavy" one. While some consider it a bit slower than the series premiere, it is credited with establishing Naruto’s ability to inspire others, a trait that becomes central to the entire franchise 1. After passing his graduation exam in the first
Even though Naruto is still a troublemaker, he becomes a mentor figure. He teaches Konohamaru that there are "no shortcuts" to becoming Hokage—a lesson that sticks with Konohamaru for the rest of the series 1 . Unlike the other villagers who coddle or fear
This episode parallels Naruto’s desire for attention with Konohamaru ’s desire for independence. Both characters are fighting to be seen as more than the labels the village has placed on them 8.