With the release of “Chainsaw Man” Chapter 174 earlier this week, fans have been treated to a major revelation that goes deep into the intricate power dynamics between Makima and the Japanese government.
This pivotal chapter introduces key figures, including the Prime Minister and his cabinet, and sheds light on their dealings with the mysterious Aging Devil.
The chapter also raises significant questions about the involvement of Tadashi Hasegawa, the former Minister of Finance, and his role in these high-stakes negotiations.
Introduction of Japan’s Government Leaders
Chapter 174 of “Chainsaw Man” provides an unprecedented look into the inner workings of the Japanese government.
For the first time, we are introduced to the Prime Minister and his cabinet members, who find themselves entangled in a complex and morally dubious negotiation involving the Aging Devil.
#csm174 Most people dont realise this but…
We met THE prime minister
The one Makima contracted to become near-immortal pic.twitter.com/HSsV6zZrdi— Yankee (@Yankee09276191) August 13, 2024
This development is crucial for understanding the broader context of Makima’s manipulative schemes and the web of deals she has spun throughout the series.
Fumiko Mifune, a Public Safety agent often met with disdain from fans, plays a central role in this chapter.
Her involvement in the negotiations on behalf of the Aging Devil adds layers of intrigue and complexity to the plot.
Mifune’s character, known for her contentious presence, is positioned as a mediator between the devilish entity and the government, highlighting her significant role in the unfolding events.
Role of Tadashi Hasegawa
A key figure introduced in Chapter 174 is Tadashi Hasegawa, the former Minister of Finance. His appearance is significant, as he takes on a crucial role in the negotiations.
Despite his advanced age and frail condition, Hasegawa demonstrates a commanding presence and considerable influence.
He is depicted as a man in his 60s or older, now confined to a wheelchair, suggesting a long tenure in his influential position.
His role in accepting the Aging Devil’s deal, despite the hesitations of other government members, underscores his importance in the political world of the series.
Aging Devil’s Contract
Central to the chapter is the Aging Devil’s contract, which demands a staggering price: ten thousand lives.
This gruesome requirement has sparked considerable discussion among fans, leading to theories about its connection to Makima’s own deal with the Japanese government.
The contract’s nature requiring a vast number of lives for the fulfillment of its terms mirrors the dark and twisted bargains typical of the “Chainsaw Man” universe.
The introduction of Hasegawa in this context raises questions about his potential involvement in previous significant deals, including Makima’s contract.
The chapter does not explicitly link Hasegawa to Makima’s deal, but the similarities in the nature of the contracts suggest that he may have played a similar role in past negotiations.
Hasegawa’s Age and Its Implications
One of the most compelling aspects of Chapter 174 is the age difference between Hasegawa and Makima.
Hasegawa is introduced as an elderly figure, implying that he has been a part of the political scene for many years.
In contrast, Makima’s age remains ambiguous, but most fans speculate that she is in her mid-30s at most.
This significant age gap suggests that Hasegawa’s influence and involvement in government deals span a considerable period, possibly including the time when Makima was rising to power.
Makima’s status as a reincarnated Devil further complicates the timeline. The introduction of Control Devil Nayuta in the series has confirmed that reincarnated Devils age, even if they are not born as infants.
This means that Makima could have started her existence at a young age, growing up and eventually making her way into the higher echelons of power.
Hasegawa’s long tenure and the nature of his role hint at his involvement in Makima’s ascent, potentially acting as a key player in her dealings with the government.
Philosophical Underpinnings
Hasegawa’s philosophy, as articulated in the chapter, provides further insight into his character and his potential involvement in Makima’s dealings.
He refers to the sacrifice of ten thousand children as “a small price to pay for the future of Japan.”
This chilling statement reflects a utilitarian mindset that values the greater good over individual lives, a perspective that aligns with the dark themes of “Chainsaw Man”.
Makima’s contract with the Japanese government, which also involves the sacrifice of innocent lives, echoes this philosophical stance.
Both deals reflect a willingness to make morally reprehensible choices for the perceived benefit of a larger goal.
After this chapter, it makes perfect sense why Makima turned out the way she did, especially if she was involved with the higher ups growing up #csm174 pic.twitter.com/Ry8ftcH8Bl
— みり (@miri_7612) August 13, 2024
Hasegawa’s acceptance of the Aging Devil’s deal and his philosophical justification for it suggest that he would have had a similar view on Makima’s offer.
This alignment of values provides a compelling argument for his involvement in both deals.
Tatsuki Fujimoto’s Narrative Choices
The narrative choices made by mangaka Tatsuki Fujimoto are instrumental in shaping the story’s direction.
By introducing Hasegawa as an elderly figure and the “voice of reason,” Fujimoto creates a character with significant historical weight and influence.
Hasegawa’s background as the former Minister of Finance adds depth to his character, making him a key player in the series’ political and moral nature.
Fujimoto’s decision to include Hasegawa in Chapter 174 as a character of such importance may also be a strategic move to elaborate on some of the mysteries introduced in Part 1 of the series.
The chapter’s exploration of Hasegawa’s role and his philosophical views helps to bridge gaps in the narrative, providing a richer understanding of the complex world of “Chainsaw Man”.
Speculation and Future Developments
While Chapter 174 provides substantial evidence supporting Hasegawa’s involvement in significant government deals, much of this remains speculative.
The chapter hints at connections between Hasegawa and Makima’s contract, but concrete details are yet to be confirmed.
As the series progresses, further revelations may clarify Hasegawa’s role and his impact on the overarching plot.
Fans are left to piece together the puzzle of Hasegawa’s true significance in the series.
The chapter’s exploration of his character and his actions raises intriguing questions about the nature of power and sacrifice within the “Chainsaw Man” universe.
The ongoing development of the story will likely continue to unravel these mysteries, offering deeper insights into the characters and their motivations.
Revealing Power Dynamics and Deals
So, “Chainsaw Man” Chapter 174 has provided a crucial and revealing look into the power dynamics between Makima and the Japanese government.
The introduction of Tadashi Hasegawa and his involvement in the Aging Devil’s contract adds layers of complexity to the narrative.
The connections between Hasegawa and Makima’s deals, along with the philosophical underpinnings of their actions, contribute to a deeper understanding of the series’ themes.
The chapter not only advances the plot but also enriches the characterization and world-building of “Chainsaw Man”.
As fans await further developments, Chapter 174 stands as a significant milestone in unraveling the intricate web of deals and power struggles that define the series.
