Knights of the Zodiac: Ultimate Guide and Information

Welcome to this guide on Saint Seiya, a work by Masami Kurumada. The manga began in January 1986 in Japan. It was published in France by Kana, comprising 28 volumes. This story has become a legend that resonates with several generations.

The anime produced by Toei Animation includes the Sanctuary and Poseidon arcs over 114 episodes (1986–1989). An Asgard arc was created specifically for television. Directors Kôzo Morishita and Kazuhito Kikuchi, along with screenwriters Yoshiyuki Suga, Takao Koyama, and Tadaaki Yamazaki, have left their mark on the work. The designs by Shingo Araki and Michi Himeno, the scenery by Tadao Kubota, and the music by Seiji Yokoyama contributed to the unique atmosphere of the story.

The Hades saga was adapted into OVA between 2002 and 2008. In France, the Mangas channel began airing Inferno and Elysion in November 2011. The French version was directed by Marc François with famous voices like Éric Legrand and Virginie Ledieu.

The series describes the saga of the 12 houses. Key episodes include “The Seventh Sense” and “The Armor of Odin.” The gold armors and the courage of the characters are at the heart of the story.

The franchise continues with series like Episode G, Next Dimension, and The Lost Canvas. Saint Seiya Omega was produced between 2012 and 2014. In France, the success was driven by AB Distribution and the Club Dorothée. La Sellerie Française offers high-quality products related to Saint Seiya.

Key Points

• Manga by Masami Kurumada (1986), 28 volumes, French edition by Kana.
• Adaptation by Toei Animation: 114 episodes, with the Asgard arc added for TV.
• Notable artistic team: Shingo Araki, Michi Himeno, Seiji Yokoyama.
• Hades OVA (2002–2008), airing of arcs in France announced by the Mangas channel.
• Cult French dubbing directed by Marc François with Éric Legrand and Virginie Ledieu.
• Clear references to the saga of the 12 houses, Asgard, and Poseidon.
• Expanded ecosystem: Episode G, Next Dimension, The Lost Canvas, Saintia Shō, Omega.

Introduction to Saint Seiya and Editorial Context

Originally, before becoming famous on television, Saint Seiya was a manga created in 1986 by Masami Kurumada. It consists of 28 volumes, available in France thanks to Kana. The breakdown is as follows: Sanctuary (vol. 1 to 13), Poseidon (vol. 14 to 18), and finally Hades until the end in 2008. This editorial context allowed the series to gain popularity worldwide.

The television adaptation by Toei Animation began the same year. There were 114 episodes between Sanctuary and Poseidon. The studio added the Asgard arc to diversify the episodes each week. The Hades OVAs were released in three parts from 2002 to 2008. In total, the television series has 145 episodes, including extensions and fillers.

The success of Saint Seiya relies on remarkable talents. Kôzo Morishita and Kazuhito Kikuchi directed, with scripts by Yoshiyuki Suga, Takao Koyama, and Tadaaki Yamazaki. Not to mention the drawings by Shingo Araki and Michi Himeno, the scenery by Tadao Kubota, and the music by Seiji Yokoyama. Songs like “Pegasus Fantasy” and “Blue Dream” are unforgettable.

In France, AB Distribution aired The Knights of the Zodiac. Their popularity exploded with Club Dorothée on TF1 starting in 1988. Years later, in 2011, the Mangas channel aired Inferno and Elysion. This continued to grow the French-speaking fanbase of Saint Seiya.

The adventure didn’t stop there. There were five movies, sequels, and spin-offs like Episode G, Next Dimension, and others. Saint Seiya Omega aired between 2012 and 2014. All of this shows how much Saint Seiya has influenced pop culture and screens over time.

Universe, Castes, and Key Concepts

In the universe of Saint Seiya, the Knights of Athena are linked to 88 constellations. They draw their strength from the cosmos, an internal power that activates under pressure to surpass human limits. The hierarchy is established in three castes: gold, silver, and bronze, each offering a unique path where determination can tip the balance of power.

Knights of Athena, Cosmos, and Bronze, Silver, Gold Castes

Each Saint fights for the Earth under the banner of Athena. The humblest, the bronzes, learn to channel their cosmos until they reach the Seventh Sense. Higher up, the Silver offer greater mastery and range. The Gold, at the top, represent the signs of the Zodiac and surpass the others through their control and near-light speed.

However, the hierarchy can be overturned. The intensity of the cosmos can shake the established order, highlighting a key message: faith and perseverance are stronger than position.

Gold Armor, Saint Bronze, and Variants (Black, Divine)

The gold armor of Sagittarius is a strong symbol that marks key moments. The bronze armors strengthen over time through repairs by Mû of Jamir, embracing the wounds of battles. The Phoenix, worn by Ikki, has the unique power of regeneration, accentuating its aura of an independent hero.

The series explores several variants of armors. The black ones are corrupted copies serving dark designs. The divine ones, born from the blood of Athena, offer a superior cosmos, surpassing even the gold armor in moments of grace.

Adversarial Armies: Marinas, Specters, Divine Warriors of Asgard

The Knights of Athena face formidable enemies. The Marinas of Poseidon protect the seas with their Generals. The Specters of Hades threaten from Inferno to Elysion. And the Warriors of Asgard, allied with Odin, bring a northern wind to the story.

These adversaries enrich the narrative. Each group introduces unique challenges, rites, and trials, forcing the heroes to adapt their strategy and their cosmos.

Intergalactic Combat and Mythological Stakes

The intergalactic combat is rooted in Greek mythology, covering marine, infernal, and celestial realms. The missions, whether to protect Athena, cross the Twelve Houses, defeat the pillars of the oceans, or triumph over infernal judges, forge an epic where the cosmos masters destiny.

The staging is enhanced by the music of Seiji Yokoyama and the drawings of Shingo Araki and Michi Himeno. Together, they highlight the brilliance of the gold armors and the valor of the bronze saints, clarifying the links between the different castes at the heart of a moving legend.

Knights of the Zodiac in French Culture

The Knights of the Zodiac first captivated French viewers. It created a passion that spans generations. Terms like cosmos, gold armor, and knights have become commonplace among fans.

TV Broadcast in France (Club Dorothée, AB Distribution)

In 1988, the show landed on TF1, thanks to AB Distribution. With Club Dorothée, it quickly became a weekly staple for the youth. From 1988 to 1997, its unique style marked pop culture in France.

The phenomenon went beyond television. In schools, children imitated poses and talked about attacks and armors. Reruns since 2006 have rekindled interest in this saga.

French Dubbing: Éric Legrand, Virginie Ledieu, Marc François…

The French dubbing has its own identity. Éric Legrand, Virginie Ledieu, and Marc François lent their voices to the characters, under the direction of Marc François. Serge Bourrier, Henry Djanik, and Laurence Crouzet joined them, enriching the ensemble.

Their work gave soul to the characters. Their voices made battles and farewells more intense, even influencing other series in France.

Generational Impact and Music (Bernard Minet)

Bernard Minet left a mark with the French opening theme. He created a melody as important as “Pegasus Fantasy” from Japan. This music contributed to the legend of the Knights of the Zodiac in France.

The influences of the knight are found everywhere. From schoolyards to conventions, fans love collecting figures and videos. French creators continue this passion with exceptional work recognized throughout France.

Must-See Sagas and Major Arcs

Each arc, such as the ascent to the Sanctuary, enriches the unique mythology and aesthetics of the trio Seiji Yokoyama, Shingo Araki, and Michi Himeno. We explore captivating sagas like the 12 houses, Asgard, Poseidon, and the Hades OVAs. For this, we rely on precise episode lists to keep track of the story.

Tip: To better understand the references, from the armor of Odin to Excalibur, alternate between watching and rereading summaries. This will also help you appreciate the different versions of titles released in 1988 and 2006.

Sanctuary and the Saga of the 12 Houses: From the Seventh Sense to the Grand Pope

Episodes 01 to 73 establish a heroic plot through the twelve temples. Moments like “The Seventh Sense,” “Shaka, the Man Closest to a God,” and “The True Face of the Grand Pope” are unforgettable. They showcase the evolution of the Knights and the beauty of the gold armors.

Asgard (Anime Arc): Divine Warriors, Hilda, and the Armor of Odin

Episodes 74 to 99 immerse us in a Nordic atmosphere. Hilda, under the influence of the Nibelungen ring, challenges Athena with her Divine Warriors. Key episodes like “The Legendary Divine Warriors” and “The Appearance of the Armor of Odin” define the Asgard arc, highlighting sacrifice and faith.

Poseidon: Seven Pillars of the Seas, Excalibur, Awakening of the God of the Oceans

From episode 100 to 114, the Bronze Saints face the emperor of the seas. The quest for the “seven pillars of the seas” guides their adventure. “Excalibur, the Legacy of Shura” and “The Awakening of Poseidon” bring strong moments. The Poseidon arc is marked by the struggle to bring down the pillars.

Hades (OVA): Sanctuary, Inferno, Elysion, and Mythical Conclusion

From 2002 to 2008, the Hades OVAs are divided into three parts: Sanctuary, Inferno, Elysion. In France, they were broadcast until 2011. The aesthetics highlight the tragic side and sublime the confrontations, adding an almost spiritual dimension.

Episode Lists and Notable Titles (e.g., “The Seventh Sense,” “Shaka, the Man Closest to a God”)

In total, there are 114 TV episodes and OVAs that bring the total to 145. These lists contain titles in Japanese (kanji and rōmaji), important dates, and variants from the years 1988 and 2006. They are perfect for finding key episodes like “The Harmony of the Twelve Gold Armors” or “The Arrow of Justice.”

Iconic Heroes and Armors

The Knights of Athena are symbols of courage, loyalty, and self-overcoming. Their armors tell stories, just like their scars. The voices of Tōru Furuya to Éric Legrand continue to resonate among fans in France. Their path to the Seventh Sense reveals faces, trials, and the moment when a divine armor awakens.

Seiya of Pegasus: Evolution to the Divine Armor

Seiya, trained by Marine at the Sanctuary, seeks his sister Seika before protecting Saori. Mû often repairs his Cloth. The Gold Armor of Sagittarius helps him in difficult moments. Guided by Athena, Seiya surpasses the limits of the cosmos. He is the first to obtain the divine armor, thanks to the sacred blood. His determination inspires others.

Shiryū of the Dragon: Shield, Excalibur, and Sense of Sacrifice

Shiryū possesses an indestructible shield and a legendary fist. He gives his blood, his sight, and even his life for his friends. After defeating Shura of Capricorn, he uses the Gold Armor of Libra. His honor is as sharp as Excalibur.

Hyōga of the Swan: Absolute Zero, Camus of Aquarius

The loss of his mother marks Hyōga of the Swan, who finds peace in the cold. He survives against Milo and challenges Camus of Aquarius, almost reaching absolute zero. Later, he wears the Gold Armor of Aquarius, continuing Camus's legacy.

Shun of Andromeda: Nebular Chain and Duel Against Aphrodite

Shun of Andromeda prefers mercy over victory, but his chains strike with precision. He escapes the illusions of Saga and fights Aphrodite of Pisces. His gentleness is a form of power.

Ikki of the Phoenix: Illusion, Resurrection, and Solitary Power

Ikki, forced into exile on the Island of the Dead Queen, led the Black Knights. His power confuses minds, and his armor can be reborn. Protector of Shun, he always appears to change the course of a battle, even against Shaka.

Saori Kido/Athena: Guide, Mercy, and Protection of the Earth

Saori, raised by Mitsumasa Kido, carries the wisdom of Athena. Her influence calms Saga, guides Kanon, and inspires Aiolia. Her armor represents grace and justice. Through her mercy, she transforms conflict into peace.

Conclusion

In the end, the Knights of the Zodiac is a key meeting point between shōnen and Greek mythology. Strong moments, from the saga of the 12 houses to Elysion, showcase the importance of the cosmos and the Seventh Sense. In summary, the story shines thanks to brave heroes, strong values, and the brilliance of the golden armor.

Created by Masami Kurumada in 1986, this series has been highly appreciated in France, touching many fans through Club Dorothée and the Mangas channel. The voices of Marc François, Éric Legrand, or Virginie Ledieu, and the songs of Bernard Minet, have marked our memories. This series remains special for many due to these shared memories.

Main characters like Seiya, Shiryū, Hyōga, Shun, and Ikki, as well as Saori/Athena, are unforgettable. The various sagas, including the Sanctuary and Hades, illustrate themes of faith, sacrifice, and friendship. It is an adventure that awakens the spirit.

For French fans, Saint Seiya is also an inspiration for craftsmanship. The attention to detail in the armors inspires a love for well-done work. In conclusion, Saint Seiya connects ancient myth and intergalactic battles. It invites us to rediscover the saga of the 12 houses, to experience Greek mythology today, and to keep the cosmos alive within us.