Dōzen is a Taoist priest and the central figure in the story of the anime Shōzen. His background establishes him as a solitary practitioner, deeply connected to the spiritual and supernatural elements of his world. This is evident when he encounters a young girl who has been raised by supernatural creatures, an event that becomes the catalyst for his role in the narrative. Rather than turning away from this unusual child, he takes her under his wing, giving her the name Shōzen and becoming her teacher.

In terms of personality, Dōzen appears to be a composed and learned individual, possessing the wisdom and discipline expected of a Taoist priest. His decision to adopt and instruct a child raised outside of human society suggests a core of compassion and a sense of responsibility. His primary motivation stems from this act of mentorship. He is driven to teach his new disciple about human emotion and love, concepts that are foreign to her due to her unique upbringing. This goal shapes his actions and defines his purpose within the story's progression.

Dōzen’s role in the story is fundamentally that of a guide and a father figure. As Shōzen's master, he is the anchor in her journey from a feral state to one integrated with human society and feeling. The narrative unfolds through their relationship, with Dōzen acting as the bridge between the human world and the wild, supernatural realm from which Shōzen originated. His function is to impart wisdom and emotional understanding, making him the driving force behind the protagonist’s personal growth.

Consequently, his key relationship is with his disciple, Shōzen. The entire narrative revolves around the bond between the priest and the girl he raises. He is her protector, her teacher, and the primary model for the humanity she is learning to embrace. This central dynamic is the heart of the series, with other relationships likely branching out from this core connection. The development Dōzen might undergo is intrinsically linked to his success or failure as a teacher. His journey is presumably one of seeing the fruits of his lessons as Shōzen grows, which may challenge his own understanding of emotion and human connection. His notable abilities are tied to his identity as a Taoist priest, suggesting proficiency in spiritual arts, exorcism, or other esoteric practices that allow him to navigate the supernatural world from which he rescued his disciple.