Seinen manga, a genre aimed at mature audiences, often explores profound philosophical themes that transcend typical storytelling. One of the most compelling ideologies woven into these narratives is existentialism, which delves into the nature of existence, free will, and personal responsibility.
The Core Tenets of Existentialism
Existentialism, a philosophy popularized by thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Friedrich Nietzsche, emphasizes individual freedom and the search for meaning in an often-indifferent universe. It challenges people to confront the absurdity of life and create their purpose. In seinen manga raw, this philosophy is often reflected in characters grappling with moral dilemmas, societal expectations, and their internal struggles to define their identities.
Existential Angst and Identity in “Monster”
Naoki Urasawa’s Monster is a quintessential example of existentialism in seinen manga. The story follows Dr. Kenzo Tenma, a talented neurosurgeon who saves the life of a young boy, Johan, only to discover that he has unleashed a monstrous killer upon the world. Tenma’s journey to stop Johan is rife with existentialist questions: Is humanity inherently good or evil? Can one act define a person’s entire existence?
Absurdity and the Search for Meaning in “Ghost in the Shell”
Masamune Shirow’s Ghost in the Shell dives deep into existential questions about identity, consciousness, and humanity. Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg with a human brain, frequently questions whether her essence—the “ghost”—defines her humanity. This struggle mirrors existentialist themes, as she navigates a world where technology blurs the lines between man and machine.
Existential Freedom in “Berserk”
Kentaro Miura’s Berserk portrays the brutal journey of Guts, a lone mercenary who fights against overwhelming odds to carve his path in a chaotic world. The series embodies existentialist ideals by presenting a world devoid of inherent justice or fairness, leaving Guts to forge meaning in his existence. His unrelenting will to survive and protect those he loves highlights Sartre’s idea that humans must create their essence through actions, even in the face of despair.
Nihilism Versus Existential Purpose in “Death Note”
Death Note, written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata, pits two intellectual titans—Light Yagami and L—against each other in a battle of wits and morality. Light’s descent into nihilism, believing himself to be the arbiter of life and death, contrasts sharply with L’s adherence to justice. The series explores the dangers of unchecked freedom and the existential crises that arise when individuals impose their moral order onto a chaotic world.
Characters as Existential Heroes
Seinen manga often frames its protagonists as existential heroes—figures who confront the absurd and take responsibility for their lives. These characters endure profound suffering, question societal norms, and strive to make meaningful choices despite uncertainty. This mirrors existentialism’s emphasis on authenticity and the courage to live without relying on external validation or predefined structures.
Conclusion
Seinen manga provides a rich medium for exploring existentialist philosophy, blending profound ideas with compelling storytelling. Works like Monster, Ghost in the Shell, and Berserk challenge readers to question their values, confront the absurdity of life, and find personal meaning amidst chaos. By delving into existential themes, these manga transcend entertainment, offering intellectual and emotional experiences that linger long after the final page is turned.
