The Chainsaw Man universe is filled with intricate storytelling, symbolic characters, and deep, thought-provoking themes. One of the most enigmatic aspects of the series is the existence of the Four Horsemen—a group of devils representing fundamental and apocalyptic concepts. With the recent developments in Part 2, these characters have garnered immense fan speculation and theories.
In this analysis, we’ll explore the significance of Makima (Control Devil), Yoru (War Devil), Fami (Famine Devil), and the yet-to-be-revealed Death Devil. We’ll dissect their abilities, thematic contradictions, and their role in Chainsaw Man’s overarching narrative.
1. The Four Horsemen: An Equestrian Contrast
The concept of the Four Horsemen originates from the Book of Revelation, where they represent conquest (or control), war, famine, and death—forces that bring about the end times. Tatsuki Fujimoto has taken this biblical concept and reimagined it within the world of Chainsaw Man in a way that reflects their destructive tendencies and internal contradictions.
Each of the known Horsemen possesses unique abilities that make them forces to be reckoned with, but they also have ironic weaknesses or character flaws that set them apart from traditional interpretations of their archetypes.
Makima: The Control Devil (Conquest)
Makima, the first of the Horsemen introduced in Chainsaw Man, represents conquest through manipulation and absolute authority. While she initially appears kind and nurturing, her true nature is one of cold-hearted control.
Core Themes & Contradictions
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Solipsism vs. Connection: Makima believes herself to be the only person that truly exists in her worldview. Despite wanting genuine relationships, she only sees others as tools to be controlled.
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Humanity’s “Best Interests”: She claims her goal is to create a world without suffering, but she achieves this through absolute domination, contradicting the very nature of free will.
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The Irony of her Death: Despite all her power, she is ultimately outwitted by Denji’s unpredictability and humanity—two things she underestimated.
Yoru: The War Devil
Yoru, the second Horseman introduced in Part 2, is a far more direct and warlike presence. However, she is depicted as a petulant, almost childish character whose entitlement and lack of foresight make her more of a comedic yet tragic figure.
Core Themes & Contradictions
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Glory in Battle vs. Fear of Death: Despite being the War Devil, Yoru is extremely self-preserving and doesn’t engage in battles she knows she can’t win.
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Commodity of Bodies: Yoru doesn’t just see humans as expendable soldiers—she turns them into literal weapons. However, the more guilt involved, the stronger the weapons become, ironically making her more powerful when she acknowledges loss.
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Her Relationship with Asa Mitaka: Unlike Makima, who dominated Denji, Yoru is forced to co-exist with Asa. This duality of power and powerlessness creates an interesting dynamic where the War Devil must rely on an ordinary human girl.
Fami: The Famine Devil
Fami, the Famine Devil, is a far more enigmatic figure with limited screen time, yet her presence looms large in Chainsaw Man Part 2. She appears more calculating and removed compared to her sisters, hinting at a larger scheme.
Core Themes & Contradictions
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The Starving Starvation Devil: Fami represents famine, yet she herself is never seen in need or hunger. This paradox suggests a deeper thematic irony—perhaps that she thrives in scarcity rather than suffering from it.
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Her Influence Over Devils: She has demonstrated the ability to ‘feed’ other devils, giving them strength in different ways. The Fire Devil, for example, was literally fueled by feeding the flames of justice.
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Comparison to Makima: Like Makima, Fami operates behind the scenes, orchestrating events and gathering pawns for an eventual conflict—this time against the mysterious Death Devil.
The Mystery of the Death Devil
The Death Devil is the only Horseman yet to be revealed, but they are frequently alluded to as the most powerful of the four. Given that death is the ultimate fate of all living beings, this devil is likely to have abilities far beyond what we have seen so far.
Thematically, the Death Devil could embody:
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The Inevitability of Mortality
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The Fear of the Unknown
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The Cyclical Nature of Life and Death
Considering Chainsaw Man’s themes of rebirth, sacrifice, and existential dread, the Death Devil’s introduction will likely serve as a turning point in the series.
2. Parallels Between the Horsemen and Their Roles
Fujimoto has carefully woven narrative and visual parallels between the Horsemen, hinting at a greater plan.
A. The Introduction Similarities
Both Makima and Fami are introduced after a major devil’s defeat, greeting the protagonist with a seemingly kind but deeply unsettling demeanor. Their presence signals an upcoming shift in the story, cementing their roles as orchestrators of chaos.
B. Big Bad Energy: Puppets vs. Pawns
Makima gathered forces to fight the Gun Devil, an enemy she secretly wanted to control. Fami is similarly amassing a cult-like following to combat the Death Devil, though her true motives remain unclear.
C. The Harm They Cause Denji
Denji has suffered immensely at the hands of both Makima and Fami, whether directly or indirectly. Both characters manipulate events from the shadows, ensuring Denji remains entangled in their respective plots.
3. Thematic Significance of the Four Horsemen
The Horsemen’s presence in Chainsaw Man goes beyond their biblical origins—they serve as reflections of humanity’s struggles:
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Control (Makima) represents the loss of autonomy.
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War (Yoru) represents destruction and conflict.
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Famine (Fami) represents deprivation and sacrifice.
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Death (???) represents the ultimate unknown.
Each of them is flawed, hypocritical, and bound by their nature, making them fascinating contrasts to Denji and his own struggle for freedom.
4. Conclusion: What’s Next for the Horsemen?
As Chainsaw Man Part 2 continues, the roles of the remaining Horsemen will become clearer. With the impending introduction of the Death Devil, we may see the ultimate test of Denji’s resilience and the culmination of the series' apocalyptic themes.
One thing is certain—Fujimoto is crafting a complex, layered narrative that will leave fans analyzing for years to come.
What are your theories about the Four Horsemen?
Do you think Denji can defeat them all? Is Fami truly an ally or just another manipulator? Let’s discuss in the comments!
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