Zetsuen no Tempest: A Shakespearean Tale of Magic, Revenge, and Fate

Introduction to Zetsuen no Tempest

Zetsuen no Tempest (Blast of Tempest) is a dark fantasy anime and manga series blending supernatural action with Shakespearean tragedy. Created by Kyo Shirodaira, illustrated by Arihide Sano and Ren Saizaki, and animated by Studio Bones, it explores grief, revenge, and destiny with philosophical weight and magical realism.

Plot Overview

The Mysterious Death of Aika Fuwa

After the murder of his sister Aika, Mahiro Fuwa teams up with Hakaze Kusaribe, a powerful mage banished to a deserted island. In return for Mahiro’s help, she promises to find Aika’s killer. What Mahiro doesn’t know is that his best friend, Yoshino, was secretly Aika’s boyfriend.

The Struggle Between the Trees of Genesis and Exodus

The world’s balance is threatened by two mystical forces: the Tree of Genesis (order) and the Tree of Exodus (chaos and rebirth). This philosophical battle between structure and entropy becomes central to the fate of humanity.

Main Characters

Mahiro Fuwa: The Vengeful Brother

Hot-headed and impulsive, Mahiro is driven by vengeance. He’ll stop at nothing to uncover the truth behind Aika’s death—even if it means making dangerous alliances.

Yoshino Takigawa: The Calm Strategist

Mahiro’s quiet best friend, Yoshino keeps secrets close—including his romantic relationship with Aika. He’s thoughtful, rational, and balances Mahiro’s recklessness with composed logic.

Hakaze Kusaribe: The Banished Princess

As the leader of the Kusaribe Clan and the most powerful mage of the Tree of Genesis, Hakaze is intelligent, proud, and gradually humanized through her bond with the boys. Stranded on an island, she communicates via magic across time and space.

Aika Fuwa: The Enigmatic Sister

Though dead, Aika shapes the entire narrative. Her secrets, choices, and revelations drive both Mahiro and Yoshino into a philosophical storm about destiny and sacrifice.

Themes and Symbolism

Shakespearean Influences

The series mirrors Hamlet and The Tempest, exploring revenge, the supernatural, and existential turmoil. Characters often quote or embody Shakespearean archetypes, adding layers of literary depth.

Fate vs. Free Will

Are the characters mere pawns in fate’s hands? Or do their choices shape reality? The series meditates on predestination, chaos, and self-determination through magical metaphors.

The Nature of Revenge

Mahiro's obsession with revenge contrasts with Yoshino’s subtler mourning. The story asks whether revenge heals or corrupts—and if peace is ever truly possible afterward.

Production and Adaptation

Manga Series

Serialized in Monthly Shōnen Gangan from 2009 to 2013, the manga ran for 10 volumes. It’s praised for its intricate plot, sharp dialogue, and symbolic richness.

Anime Adaptation

Studio Bones adapted the manga into a 24-episode anime from October 2012 to March 2013. With fluid animation and emotional voice acting, the anime stayed loyal to the manga’s tone and story.

Reception and Legacy

Critical Acclaim

Critics applauded its narrative complexity, character chemistry, and literary references. It’s often recommended to fans of psychological thrillers and philosophical anime.

Fan Reception

Audiences loved the dynamic between Mahiro and Yoshino, Hakaze’s development, and the slow reveal of Aika’s mysteries. Its emotional depth and visual style left a lasting impact in the anime community.

Conclusion

Zetsuen no Tempest is a rare fusion of literature, mystery, and magic. It questions fate, morality, and the price of power, all while delivering an emotionally rich and visually stunning experience. If you enjoy layered narratives with philosophical depth, this series is a must-watch.

FAQs

• What is Zetsuen no Tempest about? Two friends uncover the truth behind a girl’s death and become entangled in a magical battle between world-changing forces.
• Is it inspired by Shakespeare? Yes. It incorporates themes and quotes from Hamlet and The Tempest.
• How many episodes does the anime have? 24 episodes.
• Who are the main characters? Mahiro Fuwa, Yoshino Takigawa, Hakaze Kusaribe, and Aika Fuwa.
• What are the Trees of Genesis and Exodus? Magical entities representing opposing forces of order and destruction.
• Is the anime different from the manga? They are nearly identical in story, with the anime following the manga closely.
• What genre is it? Dark fantasy, drama, mystery, supernatural.
• Who created the series? Written by Kyo Shirodaira, illustrated by Arihide Sano and Ren Saizaki.
• Where can I watch it? Available on Crunchyroll, Funimation, and other streaming services (region-dependent).
• Is there an English version of the manga? Yes, officially translated and available through licensed publishers and platforms.