Determining the "bravest" Saiyan is subjective, as bravery manifests differently. However, based on consistently displayed courage in the face of overwhelming odds, Goku is often considered the bravest Saiyan.
While Vegeta displays tremendous pride and battles fearlessly, his motivations often stem from rivalry and a need to surpass Goku. Gohan, though powerful, has moments of hesitation and relies on his potential rather than inherent, constant bravery.
Goku's Consistent Courage
Goku's bravery isn't born from a need to prove himself but from a genuine desire to protect others and test his limits. He embodies courage in the following ways:
- Never backing down from a challenge: Goku consistently faces opponents far stronger than himself, pushing his limits without fear.
- Protecting others: His bravery is often directed towards shielding his friends, family, and the Earth from destruction. Examples include his sacrifices against Raditz, Cell, and his willingness to fight Frieza repeatedly.
- Seeking out stronger opponents: While dangerous, this demonstrates a fearlessness and a willingness to challenge his own capabilities. He isn't afraid to fail or even die in the pursuit of strength and protecting others.
- Remaining optimistic in the face of despair: Even when severely outmatched, Goku maintains a positive attitude and encourages others, showcasing a resilience born from unwavering bravery.
Other Considerations
While Goku is a strong contender, other Saiyans also demonstrate bravery:
- Vegeta: Vegeta's willingness to sacrifice himself against Majin Buu displays his bravery and a shift from self-serving pride to a genuine desire to protect his family. However, his initial motivations are often driven by ego and competition.
- Gohan: Gohan's bravery is most evident when he taps into his potential, such as his fight against Cell. However, he doesn't consistently exhibit the same level of unwavering courage as Goku.
In conclusion, while other Saiyans show bravery in varying degrees, Goku's consistent and selfless courage, fueled by a desire to protect others and push his own boundaries, arguably makes him the bravest Saiyan.