Psychology stands as one of the most intriguing branches of science, unlocking the complexities of the human mind. This field offers profound insights into varying behaviors, from the development of religious beliefs and superstitions to the understanding of addiction and its recovery. Furthermore, psychology delves into the motivations behind human actions, illuminating what drives individuals toward choices that society often categorizes as good or evil.
While altruism is generally embraced due to its visible benefits—such as improved peer relations and respect—the concept of villainy prompts more profound questions. What traits underpin a person’s transformation into a villain? Do they perceive themselves as malevolent, and if so, what steps do they take towards redemption? Fiction often explores these themes, particularly in manga, which frequently unpacks the psychology of villainous characters.
10. Multiple Personality Detective Psycho
Dissociative Detective Discovers Truth Behind Their Condition
- Creators: Eiji Otsuka (story), Shou Tajima (art)
- 24 Volumes, 155 Chapters
- Available in English via Dark Horse Comics
After serving time for a crime he committed, the protagonist, now a private investigator, pairs with his more rational alter ego, Kazuhiko Amamiya, to delve into a startling increase in serial killers sharing disturbing traits. MPD Psycho centers less around dissociative identity disorder and more on the core of personality and identity. As Yosuke simultaneously occupies the role of both hero and adversary, the manga raises critical questions about culpability as the narrative gradually reveals deeper truths.
9. Tomodachi Game
Student Succumbs to Pressure and Reverts to Detrimental Behaviors
- Creators: Mikoto Yamaguchi (story), Yuuki Satou (art)
- 26 Volumes, 130 Chapters
- Available in English via K Manga
Tomodachi Game poses critical ethical questions about whether immoral actions can be justified in the fight against injustice. Yuichi and his companions confront their loyalty to one another as they navigate tests designed to alleviate a crushing debt. Initially valuing his friendships, Yuichi’s demeanor transforms into something cold and calculated as pressures mount, reflecting how individuals often revert to harmful instincts under stress.
With each character harboring darker secrets, their collective journey exposes the consequences of avoidance rather than reconciliation with their pasts. The narrative serves to illustrate the inherent struggle against one’s darker inclinations when push comes to shove.
8. Funouhan
Amoral Assassin Manipulates Clients’ Fates
- Creators: Arata Miyatsuki (story), Yuuya Kanzaki (art)
- 12 Volumes, 83 Chapters
- Fan Translations only; available in French via Delcourt, and Brazilian Portuguese via Panini Comics
The anthology-style Funouhan, or Impossibility Defense, revolves around Tadashi Usobuki, a hitman who executes his contracts in unconventional ways. eschewing direct violence for psychological manipulation and gaslighting, he orchestrates the downfall of his targets. Interestingly, he carries out these actions without personal cost because he derives satisfaction from humanity’s folly, leading to a profound inquiry into the moral ambiguities of evil.
The series raises an essential question: who is more culpable—the assassin or the client? Through Usobuki’s perspective, readers can ponder the murky waters of morality and the complex motivations behind evil actions.
7. Aku no Kyouten
An Examination of Psychopathy
- Creators: Yusuke Kishi (original novel), Eiji Karasuyama (art)
- 9 Volumes, 36 Chapters
- Fan Translations only
Aku no Kyouten provides a compelling narrative by juxtaposing the charming facade of Seiji Hasumi with the chilling reality of his psychopathic behavior. As an esteemed teacher, he appears dedicated to his students’ welfare, concealing a darker ambition to control and manipulate those around him. This manga challenges the conventional depiction of psychopaths in horror fiction, demonstrating that true villainy often lies behind a mask of charisma and false benevolence.
6. Blood on the Tracks
A Mother’s Disturbing Control Over Her Son
- Creator: Shuzo Oshimi
- 17 Volumes, 153 Chapters
- Available in English via Kodansha Comics USA
In Blood on the Tracks, parental behavior can illuminate intrinsic villainy. Seiko, a mother embodying sociopathic control, traps her son Seiichi in a web of manipulation, blackmail, and emotional abuse. Although outwardly appearing nurturing, Seiko uses maternal affection as a tool for domination, leading to a twisted dynamic that ultimately engulfs them both.
5. Berserk
Ambition Can Lead Even the Best Astray
- Creator: Kentaro Miura; continued by Studio Gaga and Kouji Mori
- 42+ Volumes, 391+ Chapters
- Available in English via Dark Horse Comics
Berserk illustrates the complexities of ambition through its antagonist, Griffith. Through the lens of friendship and betrayal, the story explores the darker sides of human desire and ambition. Expecting obedience and loyalty, Griffith’s relationships unravel as he sacrifices his comrades in the pursuit of power. Ultimately, this tragic path reveals the emptiness of sacrificing personal connections for ambition.
4. Death Note
The Perils of Supremacy
- Creators: Tsugumi Ohba (story), Takeshi Obata (art)
- 12 Volumes, 108 Chapters
- Available in English via Viz Media
In Death Note, we see Light Yagami, a teenager blinded by his own inflated self-importance after discovering a supernatural notebook that grants him the power of life and death. Light’s misguided belief in his own divinity drives him to commit heinous acts. The narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the intoxicating nature of power when coupled with egotism and delusion.
3. Monster
The Complexities of Nature and Nurture
- Creator: Naoki Urasawa
- 18 Volumes, 162 Chapters
- Available in English via Viz Media.
Monster dissects the interplay between genetics and environment in shaping villainous behavior through the chilling character of Johan Liebert. Unlike many other antagonists, Johan’s worldview—fueled by a nihilistic perception of human life—stands in stark contrast to the values of protagonist Dr. Tenma, who sees worth in every life he saves. Johan embodies the horrors of a problematic upbringing multiplied by genetic predispositions towards psychopathy, indicating how external influences can exacerbate inner demons.
2. A Silent Voice
Redemption is Possible
- Creator: Yoshitoki Ooima
- 7 Volumes, 64 Chapters
- Available in English via Kodansha Comics USA
The narrative in A Silent Voice explores not only the consequences of bullying but also the potential for personal growth and redemption. Shoya, having bullied a deaf classmate, faces severe social repercussions which propel him into a journey of remorse. His efforts to seek forgiveness from Shoko foster transformation, illustrating that even those who have committed acts of villainy can evolve and learn empathy through genuine attempts to make amends.
1. Our Happy Time
Redefining Evil Through Understanding
- Creators: Gong Ji-Young (original novel), Sumomo Yumeka (art)
- 1 Volume, 8 Chapters
- Fan Translations only
Our Happy Time offers a poignant exploration of empathy, reflecting on the complex lives of those entangled in crime. The story follows Juri, a woman grappling with her own suicidal thoughts, who finds unexpected kinship with Yuu, a death row inmate. Through their shared pain and struggles, the manga conveys that understanding one’s humanity transcends societal perceptions of evil, highlighting the multifaceted nature of crime and morality.
Leave a Reply