Greetings, fellow connoisseurs of the sequential arts. Today, we are delving into a work that beautifully bridges the gap between ancient folklore and modern narrative sensibilities. I am speaking, of course, of "Blade of the Moon Princess" (originally titled *Kaguya-den*), a mesmerizing series penned and illustrated by the legendary Chiho Saito.
If that name sounds familiar, it should; Saito-sensei is the visionary artist behind the iconic *Revolutionary Girl Utena*. In *Blade of the Moon Princess*, she returns to her roots of blending high-stakes drama with ethereal aesthetics, reimagining one of Japan’s oldest stories: *The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter*.
The Plot: A Celestial Reimagining
The story begins in the familiar setting of the Heian period, a time of courtly elegance and hidden shadows. However, Saito-sensei quickly pivots from the traditional myth. We follow Sakuya, a young woman living a humble life who discovers that she is the vessel for the soul of the Moon Princess, Kaguya. But this is no mere fairy tale of a girl returning to the stars.
In this iteration, the Moon is not a peaceful celestial kingdom but a source of formidable, often terrifying power. Sakuya finds herself thrust into a world of political intrigue and supernatural conflict. She is pursued by those who wish to harness the "Moon’s power" for their own gain, including members of the Imperial Court and mysterious entities from the lunar realm.
The "Blade" in the title refers to both the literal and metaphorical edge Sakuya must maintain. Unlike the passive Kaguya-hime of legend, Sakuya must take up arms—both spiritual and physical—to protect her humanity. As she navigates her dual identity, she encounters a cast of complex characters, including noble warriors and enigmatic moon-dwellers, all while trying to decipher the true intentions of the celestial beings who claim her as their own.
Demographics and Genre: A Masterclass in Shojo Sophistication
*Blade of the Moon Princess* is categorized as Shojo, specifically serialized in the prestigious magazine *Monthly Flowers*. However, calling it "just a Shojo" would be a disservice to its depth. Because it is published in a magazine that caters to a more mature female audience (often bordering on Josei), the themes and art style carry a level of sophistication that appeals to all genders.
It seamlessly blends Historical Fantasy, Supernatural Drama, and Action. While there are romantic elements—a staple of Saito’s work—they are secondary to the protagonist’s journey of self-actualization and survival. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the political machinations of the Heian court to feel just as dangerous as a supernatural blade.
Main Themes: Identity, Destiny, and the Subversion of Myth
The core of *Blade of the Moon Princess* lies in its exploration of Identity vs. Destiny. Sakuya is constantly told who she is "supposed" to be: a princess, a prize, a celestial object. Her struggle to remain "Sakuya" while carrying the essence of "Kaguya" serves as a powerful metaphor for the female experience in a structured society.
Another prominent theme is the Subversion of Folklore. Saito takes the "maiden" archetype and infuses it with agency. The moon, traditionally a symbol of beauty and longing in Japanese poetry, is depicted here as something cold, alien, and predatory. This creates a fascinating tension between the lush, flowery art style and the underlying cosmic horror of the lunar influence.
Furthermore, the manga touches upon The Burden of Immortality. The contrast between the fleeting, beautiful lives of the humans in the Heian court and the cold, eternal existence of the Moon people provides a melancholic backdrop to the action.
Why You Should Read It
For any "otaku erudito," the draw here is the art. Chiho Saito’s linework is at its peak—flowing hair, intricate kimonos, and expressive eyes that convey volumes of unspoken emotion. It is a visual feast that demands a slow, appreciative read.
*Blade of the Moon Princess* is a must-read for those who enjoy historical epics like *Akatsuki no Yona* (Yona of the Dawn) but crave a more mature, mythologically dense narrative. It is a brilliant example of how classic literature can be
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