Arion (manga)

Arion is a science fiction and fantasy manga series written and illustrated by Yoshikazu Yasuhiko. It was serialized in the Japanese magazine Monthly Comic Ryu from 1979 to 1984, and later published in five tankōbon volumes by Tokuma Shoten.

The story is loosely based on Greek mythology, particularly the myths of Heracles (Hercules) and Perseus. It follows the journey of Arion, a young man raised in the shadows of a manipulative and powerful mother, Ceres. Ceres, a woman of immense psychic power, has orchestrated Arion's life from birth, intending for him to fulfill a specific purpose related to a prophesied war.

Arion is forced to confront his destiny and his mother's influence as he travels a war-torn world, encountering characters inspired by Greek mythology such as Zeus, Hades, Poseidon, and Apollo, but reimagined in a futuristic, technologically advanced setting. He strives to break free from Ceres' control and determine his own fate.

The manga is known for its complex characters, themes of fate versus free will, the corrupting influence of power, and its blend of science fiction and mythological elements. Yasuhiko's distinctive art style, characterized by detailed character designs and dynamic action sequences, also contributed to the series' popularity.

An anime film adaptation of Arion, also directed by Yasuhiko, was released in 1986. While the film covers elements of the manga's plot, it streamlines the story and features differences from the source material.

The manga Arion is considered a classic work and a significant example of science fiction manga that draws heavily upon mythological themes.