Re-examining Cancer and Pisces in ‘Saint Seiya’: Were They Truly Cowards?
The world of anime offers endless enjoyment, profound truths, and unifying power. Welcome to a deeper look at one of the most iconic long-running classics: Saint Seiya.
A Masterpiece of Storytelling and Art
Authored by Masami Kurumada, Saint Seiya is widely celebrated for its imaginative plotlines and detailed artwork. Among its various story arcs, the Hades Chapter stands out as a pinnacle of the series, both in animation and narrative depth. This segment places a significant emphasis on the Gold Saints, much to the delight of fans who eagerly awaited more screen time for these revered warriors. However, even these paragons of justice and virtue exhibit moments that initially seem perplexing—most notably, the scene where Cancer Deathmask and Pisces Aphrodite appear to beg for mercy from the Specter General Radamanthys, creating an impression of cowardice. Was this a deliberate attempt to tarnish their image, or was there a deeper meaning behind their actions?
From Villains to Redeemed Heroes
In the earlier Sanctuary Chapter, both Deathmask and Aphrodite were portrayed in a negative light. Aware of the evil schemes of Gemini Saga during the “Saga Incident,” they chose to comply rather than oppose, with Deathmask’s murderous tendencies drawing particular disdain. Their eventual defeat and death were met with little sympathy from audiences. It wasn’t until the Hades Chapter that Kurumada began to redeem these two characters.
This chapter is often hailed as the most emotionally resonant and controversial in the series. It sparked debates over power dynamics, such as the showdown between Virgo Shaka and the trio of Saga, Shura, and Camus, and it raised questions about the true motives behind Deathmask and Aphrodite’s plea for mercy. As Gold Saints who once stood at the peak of strength, why would they act in a way that seemed to dishonor their titles? The phrase, “You don’t understand the story until you revisit it,” perfectly captures the journey of realizing their true intentions.
The Strategy Behind the Surrender
Upon their resurrection by Hades, the Gold Saints were under constant surveillance by the Specters, who distrusted their loyalty. Every move made by Aphrodite and Deathmask was monitored. When they encountered Taurus Aldebaran and later Mu of Aries at the first temple, they were swiftly defeated and forced back to Hades’ castle. Seizing this opportunity, they devised a plan to assassinate Hades himself.
However, due to the castle’s protective barrier or the overwhelming power of Radamanthys, their mission failed. As they were thrown into the abyss, their apparent plea for life was misinterpreted as fear. But was it truly cowardice?
1. A Deeper Understanding: The Bigger Picture
Those who look beyond the surface will recognize that Deathmask and Aphrodite were acting for a greater cause. As Gold Saints serving Athena, they possessed a resolve that transcended death. Along with the other resurrected Gold Saints, they had secretly agreed to use their second chance at life to ensure victory for Athena in the Holy War, even if it meant being branded as traitors.
By feigning weakness and cowardice, they led Radamanthys to believe they were insignificant threats, thereby preventing him from suspecting the true intentions of their companions. This self-sacrificial act was a strategic move to protect the broader mission—a testament to their unwavering loyalty.
2. Unforgettable Moments of Resolve
A poignant detail in the anime highlights their true character. When the elder Sage Shion gathered the resurrected Saints to reveal their covert plan, everyone silently accepted the burden of becoming perceived villains. Aphrodite closed his eyes in calm acceptance, embodying a disregard for personal reputation, while Deathmask smiled faintly, demonstrating fearless equanimity in the face of certain doom. These were not actions of men afraid to die; they were displays of men committed to a cause greater than themselves.
3. The Author’s Intent: Award-Worthy Performances
Masami Kurumada himself clarified that their begging was nothing short of masterful acting. In an interview, he stated, “You were deceived by their superb performance,” confirming that their actions were a calculated ruse rather than a genuine display of fear. Had they truly been cowardly, they could have exposed Shion’s plan to the Specters in exchange for rewards. Instead, they chose to stand firm in their duty. Kurumada even joked that they deserved an Oscar for their performances.
Conclusion: A Lesson in Perception and Loyalty
To this day, debates among fans continue. Some argue that Deathmask and Aphrodite were inherently flawed, while others believe their redemption was always part of Kurumada’s vision. Regardless of where one stands, their story reminds us that first impressions can be deceiving, and true courage often lies in actions that are misunderstood at first glance. As we revisit their journey, we uncover layers of loyalty, strategy, and self-sacrifice that redefine what it means to be a hero.
In the end, the tale of the Pisces and Cancer Gold Saints is not one of cowardice, but of cunning and devotion—a narrative that encourages us to look beyond the surface and appreciate the deeper currents of character and purpose.
