The world of Japanese manga is incredibly diverse in terms of content and storytelling styles. Manga encompasses various genres, ranging from fantasy to slice of life to sports. What’s fascinating about this medium is that it not only offers entertainment but also provides deep insights and knowledge that can lead to self-reflection and understanding of reality.
Below are 7 psychological manga that will make anyone ponder:
1. Berserk
Berserk tells the story of a man named Guts. The narrative unfolds in a dark, fantastical world reminiscent of medieval Europe. Initially, Guts is just a lone mercenary, but he eventually becomes a formidable warrior who battles monstrous beings with his iconic sword.
This manga explores the profound experiences of enduring hardship and how they shape the future of every individual.
2. Dr. Frost
Dr. Frost centers on a gifted psychologist who uses his expertise to solve complex psychological problems faced by individuals. The cases he tackles are highly relevant to modern life, allowing readers to delve into psychological concepts effectively.
This work offers valuable insights into the nature of human psychology and the complexities of mental health.
3. Oyasumi Punpun
This manga follows the life of Onodera Punpun, depicted as a bird, from childhood to young adulthood. Despite being a young boy, Punpun grapples with profound thoughts and feelings.
The story revolves around Punpun’s struggles with a tumultuous family life, unrequited love, and the challenges of adolescence, providing a poignant exploration of emotional and existential dilemmas.
The work examines themes such as depression, love, gender identity, and family dynamics, helping readers understand how their environment influences their lives.
4. From Now On We Begin Ethics
This manga educates readers on the critical importance of ethics in human life. As individuals, we must consider our actions carefully before making any decisions.
Humans can act freely, yet they must adhere to existing rules. If they stray from these, they will inevitably face consequences.
5. I Sold My Life for 10K Yen per Year
This manga tells the story of a young man named Kusunoki, who sells his life for a mere 10,000 yen a year due to his inability to secure a stable income in Japan. At 20 years old, he finds himself selling the remnants of his life.
The narrative leads readers through a journey of introspection about the value of life, happiness, and what truly makes time worthwhile.
If you read this manga, it may provoke profound thoughts about your own life and its worth.
6. Boys Abyss: Suicide Ideation Warning
Have you ever wanted to escape reality because you feel like you have no bright future? If so, this manga is for you. It discusses how an individual perceives the world and their life.
7. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
What happens when a long life leads someone to a reality filled with sadness and loss? Frieren presents a journey of self-acceptance and the struggles of facing the inevitabilities of life and death.
This manga teaches us how to cope with loss and the passage of time when someone close departs.
