Summary
The Victorian era is one of the most fascinating, turbulent, and dynamic in all of history. It is therefore no surprise that it has inspired so many stories since, and its opulent aesthetic rarely fails to provide a good backdrop to all manner of stories. From war to romance, adventure to slavery, and just about everything in between, there is certainly no shortage of subject matter when it comes to the Victorian period. Generally considered to stretch from the early-mid 1800s to the early 1900s, it encompasses events such asthe Second Industrial Revolution and the Boxer Rebellion.
The era also gave rise toa number of iconic literary characters and tropes, many of which continue to be used today in various forms. Several manga series have been inspired by the works of writers such as Jane Austen, Charles Dickens and Arthur Conan Doyle, refreshing these themes in their own unique style. The following titles demonstrate the versatility and depth of the Victorian-era as a setting, while also contributing new elements in their own way.
7Empire Of Corpses
A Story Inspired By Frankenstein
Written by Project Itoh,Empire of Corpsesis a Frankenstein-inspired story following another attempt by the famous doctor to reanimate a corpse. Blending elements from different stories includingSherlock Holmesand evenThe Karamazov Brothers, the series seamlessly blends lots of popular literature.
The journey takes the characters from Britain to America and beyond, interacting with famous historical figures ranging from Charles Babbage to Ulysses S. Grant. For fans ofhistorical fiction and popular literature in general,Empire of Corpsesis certainly worth investigating.
6Jane Eyre
Adapted From The Classic Novel
Out of all the manga classic adaptations, UDON Entertainment’sJane Eyreis arguably the best. In addition to having a top-quality art style, the emotional retelling of Charlotte Bronte’s abused orphan is very well portrayed.
There are many details for fans and those interested in the Victorian era to enjoy - from theold English houses and country lanesto the unique fashion and etiquette of the day. It is a great example of an adaptation of a classic work in the manga format.
5Arsene Lupin
A Fun Spin On The Legendary Thief
Based on the popular French character authored by Maurice LeBlanc, Arsene Lupin is a gentleman thief and an antihero with charismatic style. The art deco style of the manga is well presented, and fits well given that it is not technically Victorian era architecture.
As for the characters and events, they all take place in early 1900s France. The themes of the series, despite centering around criminality, are generally quite light hearted. Arsene has touncover puzzles and mysteriesin a manner mirroring that of his English opposite, Sherlock Holmes.
4Black Butler
A Popular Supernatural Thriller
Dating back to 2006 and consisting of over 30 volumes,Black Butleris arguably one of the more popular and highly acclaimed Victorian-era manga - and for good reason. Following the charismatic demon butler, Sebastian Michaelis, the story combines elements of Marlowe’sFaustwith political intrigue and mystery solving.
The series still continues today with new stories being released andan anime adaptation that has seen similar success. Overall, the show has become and iconic symbol of Victorian-era manga and demonstrates many of the best qualities of the setting.
3Gunka no Baltzar
A Wartime Military Drama
Set in a fictional version of 19th century Europe,Gunka no Baltzaris a war-themed series that follows the witty military strategist Bernd Baltzar. As a Major in the Weissen army (presumably inspired by Austria or Prussia), Baltzar is involved equallyin both action and politics, often being the victim of unjust circumstances he must overcome.
As a great leader, Baltzar is unique as a character since he is not learning on the job but acts as more of a teacher and mentor to other characters. The art style, which perfectly depicts the unique military style of the period, is expertly done and gives the manga plenty of charm.
2The Case Study Of Vanitas
A Comedic Vampire Tale
The Case Study of Vanitasis a vampire tale with a unique sense of humor and a lot of charm. Largely inspired bythe duo of Sherlock Holmes and Watson, the series focuses on the relationship between Vanitas, a “vampire doctor” and Noe Archivist, a vampire.
As a steampunk series set in the 19th century, it is heavily inspired by the Victorian era in terms of aesthetics and the supernatural beliefs of many characters. The light-hearted comedic elements perfectly balance out the more action-packed combat segments.
1D.Gray-man
A Dark & Demonic Epic
One of the best manga to utilize the Victorian-supernatural theme isD.Gray-man. The story centers around spiritual warfare between exorcists and the Millenium Earl with special sentient weapons and demons also part of the fray.
The series is highly acclaimed for its memorable characters, interesting story andhigh-quality art style. In total, there are now 28 books in the series which date back to 2004, and an anime adaptation was also created in 2006.
