Unmasking the Enigmatic Oni: Unraveling the Japanese Mythology in Undead Girl Murder Farce
The Oni in Undead Girl Murder Farce defy and embrace Japanese mythology simultaneously, offering a unique interpretation of the Blue Oni and Red Oni myth Discover the captivating similarities between the anime and the original myth in this intriguing article
Highlights
Tsugaru in Undead Girl Murder Farce is a half-Oni, created by injecting Oni DNA into a human. He struggles to maintain his humanity as the Oni part of his body takes over.
In Japanese mythology, Oni is a term referring to monstrous creatures that feed on humans and are commonly portrayed as inhabitants of Hell. They are renowned for their immense power and occasionally venture into the human world.
Though Tsugaru and the Mythological Oni possess distinct origins, they do exhibit certain parallels, including their appearance distinguished by colors, extraordinary strength, and role as guardians. Nevertheless, Tsugaru deviates from the conventional Oni archetype.
In the midst of numerous Western monsters, Undead Girl Murder Farce introduces two Japanese supernatural beings: the undead detective Aya Rindo and her laid-back assistant Tsugaru Shinuchi. While Aya Rindo's character sparks intrigue, this article will focus on Tsugaru and his connection to Japanese Mythology as an Oni. Although Tsugaru's depiction differs from the typical Oni, there are noteworthy similarities between the two. Therefore, let us delve further into the concept of Oni in Japanese Mythology and how it influences the portrayal of Oni in Undead Girl Murder Farce.
The Oni in Undead Girl Murder Farce
Tsugaru Shinuchi is not a genuine Oni; ironically, he was originally a human specializing in hunting Oni. Regrettably, he was abducted and subjected to experimentation by the main antagonist, Professor Moriarty. By injecting Tsugaru with Oni DNA, the professor transformed him into a half-Oni. Tragically, the Oni side of his being swiftly overwhelms his human side. Consequently, Tsugaru is destined to fully transform into an Oni and lose his sanity.
However, halfway through the narrative, the Professor discloses that Tsugaru is not the only Oni he has created. In reality, Tsugaru is merely the failed prototype for a true Oni-human hybrid. After gathering sufficient data from Tsugaru and the other failed subjects who perished during the experiments, the professor ultimately discovered the perfect formula for an authentic half-Oni. The result of his experiments is none other than the disturbed young man previously known as Jack the Ripper.
The Myth of Blue Oni and Red Oni
: In contrast to Tsugaru, whose humanity is teetering on the brink of complete domination by the Oni within him, Jack has achieved a harmonious integration of both his Oni and human sides. Consequently, Jack need not worry about succumbing to becoming a full-fledged Oni. Despite this, the professor does not appear content with his current level of success with Jack. His aspiration is to transform Jack into the epitome of perfection, which is why his team tirelessly hunts for formidable creatures. By incorporating the DNA of these creatures into Jack's own body, the professor aims to create the world's first authentic chimera.
Unlike the world of Undead Girl Murder Farce, the Oni in Japanese Mythology is much more straightforward. There are no half-Oni or attempts to create a blending of Oni with other supernatural beings. An Oni is simply a monstrous entity that enjoys devouring unsuspecting humans. They are often portrayed as inhabitants of Hell, serving under the God of Hell, Enma. Their primary responsibility is to torment sinners in Hell, but they also serve as the de facto warriors of Hell.
The Onis, frequently mentioned in Japanese folklore, are powerful beings that inhabit the mortal realm. Typically depicted as massive creatures residing in mountains and caves, they occasionally descend to prey on unsuspecting individuals, either consuming them or enslaving them.
Japanese Mythology is filled with numerous tales of brave samurai confronting and battling Oni. Among these stories, the most renowned recounts the exploits of Minamoto no Raiko, a samurai who successfully decapitated Shuten-Doji, the King of Oni. While this may be nothing more than a captivating legend, an actual National Treasure of Japan exists: a sword known as Dojigiri, believed to have been used by Raiko to sever Shuten-Dohji's head. This beautiful katana stands as a testament to the legend.
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In contrast to Western demons, Japanese Oni exhibit a range of colors, although traditional folktales typically portray them as either red or blue. The red Oni is known for its untamed and unruly nature, while the blue Oni tends to be more sly and composed. Interestingly, this concept gave rise to the popular trope known as "Red Oni Blue Oni," which characterizes pairs of individuals with contrasting personalities and approaches to problem-solving, much like Goku and Vegeta or Naruto and Sasuke.
In contemporary narratives, however, the Oni often assume a more lighthearted persona, embodying benevolent qualities. They are frequently portrayed as guardians or protectors, rather than the malevolent forces of their ancestry. This is why many structures in Japan feature roof tiles adorned with the visage of the Oni, symbolizing a defense against evil, analogous to Gargoyles in Western culture.
The Similarities Between The Myth And The Anime
There are few similarities between the half-Oni Tsugaru and his folklore counterpart. They have different origin stories and live in separate worlds with distinct ways of life. Nonetheless, certain notable characteristics are shared by both the Mythological Oni and Tsugaru and Jack.
The most striking similarity lies in the color-coded Oni. Tsugaru possesses blue hair with blue lines that extend from his face to the rest of his body, and he dons a blue coat. Conversely, Jack has red hair with red lines that run down from his face to his body, and he typically sports a red vest. This clearly alludes to the myth of Red and Blue Oni, although the personalities are reversed. Tsugaru, the blue one, is the untamed individual, whereas the calm and composed one is represented by Jack, the red Oni.
The mythological Oni possess extraordinary strength and mastery over magic, with some even capable of wielding fire and lightning. However, in Undead Girl Murder Farce, the half-onis only inherit their super strength from their mythical ancestors.
Another characteristic inherited by the half-Onis in this series is their role as guardians. Tsugaru's primary responsibility is to protect Aya, while Jack serves as one of the professor's soldiers. They are ready to confront any potential threats, but their ultimate duty is to safeguard their masters.
The first season of Undead Girl Murder Farce leaves many unanswered questions about Tsugaru and the other characters. Hopefully, the next season will shed light on these mysteries. It is certain that Tsugaru is not your ordinary Oni. You can watch Undead Girl Murder Farce on Crunchyroll for streaming.
