Manga Aria Oak Forest Follows a Sweet Witch
In folklore and fairy tales, we often hear about witches living in the forest. They live far from society in many different areas. In comics Aria of the oak forestThe same is the case here, but this coming-of-age comic series explores instead how and why the life of a young witch and what her future will be when she suddenly has the opportunity to meet the wider world.
Editor’s note: There will be some spoilers about the first episode of the series. Aria of the oak forest comic below.
Aria of the oak forest Getting started is simple enough. A young woman named Aria lives alone in a small house in Ireland. Outside there is a huge blizzard raging. She is trying to keep herself busy and warm. She seemed to be moving and upon investigation discovered it was a talking white wolf. Girl? She is a witch. That’s why she lives alone. Gwyn? Well, it seems there’s a reason why this wolf can talk, even though its story has yet to be revealed.
After talking with the wolf for a while, they came to an agreement. During the harsh winter, Gwyn will be by her side. She doesn’t question the mystery behind why he can speak or how the footprints of the person next to him disappeared. He doesn’t find out too much about her life or teachings, other than learning that her recently deceased grandmother said it would be safer for witches to isolate.
However, it is because of this disruption and series of events that things get interesting for Aria. She enjoys his company and is not alone so a new deal will be struck at the end of the season. He will stay as a permanent resident. On her part, it was motivation to change. One positive thing? Maybe! I’m optimistic about it, especially since this good wizard manga has such an uplifting tone.
While Aria is frequently visited by her grandmother’s son, also a merchant who sells the herbs and medicines she produces, she is completely alone. She knows nothing about the outside world. In fact, it’s not until a few chapters and her first meeting with two normal people that we realize this isn’t some period piece in a fantasy world. Aria is living in modern times in an isolated Irish cottage. (Her uncle Theodore even uses an Instagram-like mirror network.)
That means enjoyment and comfort of Aria and the oak forest comes from seeing how this young witch lives in the manga and how she grows as an individual by discovering how much more there is to the outside world. While her grandmother encouraged living in isolation, everything we start to see in this first episode suggests that perhaps it’s not the best or right choice for Aria. The interactions between the characters and side characters when we see their perspectives or thoughts make it seem like everyone is curious about her future and hopes the best for her . And maybe, just maybe, the best thing is to be more open.
Aria of the oak forest it looks like it’s shaping up to be an interesting, coming-of-age manga about a young witch about to open up to people and experiences in the wider world. Yes, there are hints of mysteries to be revealed. However, it seems poised to be a fun and cozy story, with any revelations likely to be positive ones instead. Or at least learn from the experience.
Volume 1 of Aria of the oak forest currently available via Yen Baoand volume 2 of the manga will be released on November 19, 2024.
