Phoenix (manga)

Lore & Background

The Phoenix is about reincarnation, with each story generally involving a search for immortality embodied by the blood of the eponymous bird. The blood is believed to grant eternal life, but immortality in Phoenix is either unobtainable or a terrible curse, while Buddhist-style reincarnation is presented as the natural path of life. Recurring characters include Saruta, who appears in various forms across different eras. The series features experimental layouts, such as in Universe, where panels are organized in vertical or horizontal tiers to emphasize the isolation of astronauts.

Reader's Guide

Phoenix is considered Osamu Tezuka's magnum opus, though it was left unfinished at his death. The series is highly regarded for its ambitious scope, alternating between historical and science fiction settings to explore themes of life, death, and rebirth. Its episodic nature makes each volume accessible on its own, despite the overarching narrative remaining incomplete. Scholar Frederik L. Schodt noted that Tezuka fantasized about a secret ending, but no such ending exists. The series has been adapted into anime, a live-action film, and a musical production by the Takarazuka Revue. As of 2008, the entire manga series is available in English-language translations. The work's influence is seen in its experimental visual design and its integration of Tezuka's star system characters.

Did You Know?

• Tezuka was influenced to create Phoenix after listening to the music of Igor Stravinsky.
• The Phoenix's design was inspired by the Firebird in the animation film Konyok Gorbunok.
• The volume Karma is widely considered the masterpiece of the Phoenix series.
• The story was never completed, having been cut short by Tezuka's death in 1989.