As an observer, I can’t help but notice the remarkable surge in popularity of the captivating Shonen Jump series, “Ichi the Witch.” Despite being in its infancy with just 22 chapters under its belt, it has undeniably left an indelible mark on fans since its inception. Penned by Osamu Nishi and beautifully illustrated by Shiro Usazaki, this enchanting tale unfolds in a fantastical world centered around a male protagonist. Debuting in the vibrant realm of manga in September 2024, its inaugural volume was eagerly devoured on January 4th. The insatiable demand for more has already led to a second reprint, underscoring its meteoric rise to fame.
In simple terms, the second installment of this manga will be available on March 4th. This action-packed story, filled with adventure, combat, and ambition, shares some traits often found in shojo manga. Shojo generally caters to a young female audience, while shonen is more popular among boys. However, there are strong indications that “Ichi the Witch” may actually be a shojo story masquerading as something else.
Ichi the Witch’s Plot Introduces Its World’s First Male Witch
In this tale, we follow Ichi, a resilient young boy who’s been on his own since the tender age of six. His parents left him behind, but not empty-handed; they gave him a knife to help him end his life. Remarkably, Ichi chose survival and mastered hunting skills over the years. The narrative unfolds in a realm where magical beings, or Majiks, inhabit the land. These Majiks bestow powers on individuals who can pass specific trials. Interestingly, only females are naturally gifted with magic, earning them the title of Witches. However, could there be a Majik whose trial surpasses the capabilities of all women?
If a headstrong young boy dares to assault a formidable magical entity using ordinary weapons, Ichi realizes that his community is under threat, and not even the most potent sorceresses can vanquish the beast. In response, he takes action and becomes the world’s first known male Witch. The odds of him acquiring magical abilities were minimal, and now he must demonstrate his worthiness. His magical abilities challenge societal norms in a realm dominated by women as he strives to harness his newfound powers and face off against formidable Majiks.
The Art Style of Ichi the Witch Leans Heavily into the Shojo Side
Shojo manga frequently showcases intricate, expressive illustrations emphasizing emotional depth. The delicate, graceful lines in “Ichi the Witch” exemplify traditional shojo art characteristics. Moreover, large, radiant eyes are a common feature of shojo art, and this is evident in the characters of the series. Furthermore, the detailed beauty enlivens the magical realm portrayed in the story. Originating from Macoto Takahashi’s style, shojo manga has deep roots that persistently influence contemporary artists within this genre. His artistic legacy remains relevant to modern shojo mangaka.
In my art-loving journey, it’s no secret that Takahashi’s illustrations are a feast for the eyes, with large, radiant eyes almost everywhere! His masterpieces also boast intricate details, characterized by a dreamy, romantic, and ethereal vibe. Beyond those eyes, his artworks are adorned with cascading hair, floral patterns, ribbons, and lace. The captivating world of “Ichi the Witch” mirrors this aesthetic, creating a spellbinding atmosphere that emphasizes the fantasy element and the charm of its characters’ connections. However, it’s worth noting that Takahashi’s work is deeply rooted in the shoujo art of the 70s and 80s, while “Ichi the Witch” leans more towards modern interpretations of shoujo manga.
A Male Protagonist in a Female-Dominated Society
In folklore and mythology, the realm of magic is predominantly female-centric, as women are typically the ones gifted with this ability. Historically, women have been linked to witchcraft and mystical abilities. The concept of witches, usually female, is deeply ingrained in various cultures, where they were thought to have a stronger bond with nature and the supernatural. Consequently, these women often serve as the main characters in tales, wielding magical powers or working within the magical community.
In another interpretation, the mighty sorcerer King Uroro, renowned as a Majik, found himself in a challenge that no woman could surpass, potentially threatening their leadership. If not for Ichi’s intervention, Desscaras, the most powerful witch, would have perished. Some witty spectators humorously suggested that Uroro had remained undefeated due to his bias towards men, or misogyny.
Ichi Fits in as a Shojo Protagonist
In essence, although Ichi is young and male, his traits and personal growth make him similar to a Shojo protagonist. As a male witch with strong magical abilities, he exists in a world dominated by women, creating complexities. The majority of the characters are females who significantly influence his character development. The narrative, centered around Ichi, seeks to present a more balanced view of masculinity through its portrayal.
He shows a blend of toughness and sensitivity, avoiding stereotypical portrayals of strength that often rely on raw power or emotional restraint (characteristic of traditional shonen masculinity). Instead, Ichi exhibits maturity, compassion, and an ability to openly express emotions in a healthy manner. His vulnerability serves as a testament to his strength, enabling him to evolve personally and establish stronger, more profound connections with others, particularly the women in his surroundings.
Observing Ichi the Witch, while it doesn’t exclude it from being classified as Shonen, it certainly offers a unique perspective, given it deviates significantly from the typical demographic that Weekly Shonen Jump usually caters to. Even without considering the fact that this series is crafted by a female author and artist duo, its departure from the norm serves as a reminder of the diverse possibilities within this genre. Ultimately, it underscores the idea that both shojo and shonen can resonate with audiences universally, reflecting the broad spectrum of creators and consumers who contribute to these genres.
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2025-02-17 18:41