The recent launch of chapter 174 has further emphasized the recurring theme in Chainsaw Man Part 2 that humanity is the ultimate source of evil in mangaka Tatsuki Fujimoto’s fictional world. This idea has been explored in both the overall series and the second part in particular, but the latest developments have solidified this concept.
Similarly, while the first part of Chainsaw Man also explored this theme, it appears that Part 2 is taking it to greater heights and making it the focal point of the narrative. Chapter 174, along with previous chapters in the second part, further emphasize the prevalence and intensity of this theme.
Humanity’s Evil in Chainsaw Man
The most recent installment of Chainsaw Man Part 2 effectively demonstrates the inherent inferiority of Devils compared to humans within the series, particularly in regards to their maliciousness and depravity. The scene depicts the Japanese Prime Minister and his advisors making a deal where they sacrifice 10 thousand innocent children in exchange for the eradication of the Primal Devil, known as the Aging Devil. While they claim to be acting in the best interest of Japan, the surrounding context implies otherwise.
Most of the government officials involved in the contract discussions are of an advanced age. The exception is Miki Takanashi, who appears to be the youngest, indicated by his four children who are included in the threatened group of 10 thousand. This can be deduced from the fact that the Aging Devil limits the affected individuals to those between infancy and nine years old.
It can be inferred from Takanashi’s hesitation, as both a father of young children and the youngest member of the group, that the others are driven by their own self-interest. This is reinforced by the fact that the only one who agrees to the deal, Tadashi Hasegawa, is the oldest, weakest, and most feeble of them all. The second part of Chainsaw Man highlights that their actions are motivated by personal gain rather than the safety of Japan.
This highlights the extent of humanity’s depravity when faced with ultimate power and eternal life. Despite the social expectation for adults to protect children, Fujimoto reveals that the leaders of Japan believe they are the ones deserving of salvation. This echoes Makima’s initial agreement with the Japanese government, which involved sacrificing innocent civilians in exchange for her immortality.
In Chainsaw Man Part 2, there are numerous instances that reinforce the idea that humans are the real perpetrators of evil, as opposed to Devils. This is exemplified through the character Takagi, who initially presents himself as faultless, only to later confess to having an affair for six months. While not as severe as the examples mentioned above, this still highlights the potential for humanity to exhibit malicious and misguided behavior.
Barem Bridge’s latest manipulation of Denji and his callous disclosure of Control Devil Nayuta’s death is yet another powerful example. Being a Hybrid, Barem is no different from Asa Mitaka and Denji in his humanity. His cruel, malevolent, and unfair behavior can be seen as a reflection of human nature rather than Devil nature. This reinforces the notion that humans possess true evil, while Devils, in comparison, are simply considered bad.
As previously stated, these themes are also evident in Part 1, although to a lesser extent. This is exemplified by the contract that Makima had with the Japanese government. Additionally, the president of the United States sacrificing the lifespan of the American people in order to make a contract with 20% of the Gun Devil further demonstrates this. These examples highlight the fact that there are individuals in society who are willing to sacrifice the lives and well-being of others in pursuit of their own personal desires.
Despite this, Chainsaw Man Part 2 serves as the ultimate representation of these themes. Throughout the series, Denji experiences constant agony at the hands of humans rather than Devils. Similarly, Asa Mitaka’s most excruciating moments are revealed to be caused by humans rather than Devils. It is evident that Fujimoto will continue to utilize different characters and plot developments to reinforce this message as Chainsaw Man Part 2 progresses.
- Chainsaw Man chapter 174 highlights
- Chainsaw Man chapter 173 highlights
- After ears, Chainsaw Man erases yet another Key organ in chapter 174
- Public Safety’s use of the Ear Devil in Chainsaw Man was planned all along, and may be part of something bigger
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