Fans of Jun Mochizuki’s The Case Study of Vanitas manga have reason to celebrate! After a hiatus that felt like an eternity, a new chapter is officially on its way. Set to be published in the upcoming July issue of Square Enix’s Gangan Joker magazine, the continuation of this beloved gothic-fantasy series promises to be a turning point in the story. Here’s everything we know about the return of Vanitas and Noé.
The Hiatus and the Anticipation
The Case Study of Vanitas went on a two-month break back in May 2024, which then extended until July. However, no new chapter has been published since the initial announcement. The manga had previously taken a break in June 2022 and resumed in May 2023. This most recent pause has left fans eagerly awaiting any news about when they could dive back into the world of vampires, steampunk, and complex relationships. The void left by the series’ absence was palpable, with online forums and fan spaces buzzing with speculation and anticipation.
What to Expect from the New Chapter
While specific plot details are still under wraps, the return of The Case Study of Vanitas promises a fresh breath of air for fans. Jun Mochizuki’s world of cursed vampires, haunted pasts, and intricate bonds has always offered a unique tone, blending beauty and complexity in a way that sets it apart from other stories. Readers can anticipate concepts like heartbreak, revelations, and the poetic madness they have grown to love. With chapter 64 finally on the horizon, it’s safe to say that excitement is at an all-time high.
A Look Back at The Case Study of Vanitas
For those new to the series or in need of a refresher, The Case Study of Vanitas is a manga series written and illustrated by Jun Mochizuki. It debuted in Square Enix’s Monthly Gangan Joker on December 22, 2015. The series is set in 19th-century Paris, weaving together vampire and steampunk elements.
The Story
The story follows Noé Archiviste, a young vampire in search of the Book of Vanitas, a clockwork grimoire with a dubious reputation. In Paris, he encounters Vanitas, a human who claims to be a vampire doctor, using the book to heal cursed vampires. Thrust into a conflict that threatens the peace between humans and vampires, Noé must decide where his loyalties lie as he joins Vanitas on his quest to save vampire kind.
Key Characters
- Vanitas: A human who inherited the Book of Vanitas and uses it to heal cursed vampires. He’s known for his eccentric personality and unconventional methods.
- Noé Archiviste: A young vampire searching for the Book of Vanitas. He becomes Vanitas’s partner and observer, chronicling their adventures.
- Jeanne: A powerful vampire known as the Hellfire Witch, who becomes entangled with Vanitas.
- Luca: A young vampire and member of the Palatine family, seeking Vanitas’s help to cure his brother’s curse.
Themes and Setting
The Case Study of Vanitas explores themes of identity, prejudice, and the balance between darkness and light. The steampunk setting of 19th-century Paris adds a layer of intrigue, blending historical elements with fantastical technology and supernatural beings.
Anime Adaptation
The popularity of The Case Study of Vanitas led to a television anime adaptation by BONES, which premiered in July 2021. The anime’s second part premiered in January 2022. Both Funimation and Crunchyroll streamed the series, making it accessible to a wide audience. The anime adaptation has been praised for its stunning animation, faithful adaptation of the manga’s storyline, and captivating soundtrack.
Where to Catch Up
For those looking to dive into The Case Study of Vanitas, here are a few options:
- Manga: Yen Press has been publishing the manga simultaneously in English since its debut. As of April 2024, eleven volumes have been released.
- Anime: Both seasons of the anime are available for streaming on Crunchyroll.
Fan Reactions
The announcement of the new chapter has sent waves of excitement through the Vanitas fandom. Social media platforms are filled with fans expressing their joy and sharing theories about what the upcoming chapter might hold. Some fans are revisiting old chapters and rewatching the anime to prepare for the next installment. The return of The Case Study of Vanitas is not just a continuation of the story; it’s a revival that has brought the community back together.
