Deep Analysis of “Chi: About the Movement of the Earth” Episode 7
The anime Chi.: About the Movement of the Earth, which began airing in 2024, has captured widespread attention for its gripping portrayal of those who risked everything to pursue the forbidden truth of heliocentrism. In this article, we focus exclusively on Episode 7, diving deep into its plot, character psychology, hidden meanings, and foreshadowing. Whether you’re preparing to watch the episode or have already seen it and want to delve deeper, this review is tailored to enrich your understanding of the story.
◆ What Is Chi.: About the Movement of the Earth?
Chi. is based on the manga by Uoto, serialized from 2020 to 2022 in Weekly Big Comic Spirits (Shogakukan) and compiled in eight volumes. The story is set in 15th-century Europe—a time when the Church reigned supreme, and promoting heliocentrism (the idea that the Earth revolves around the Sun) was considered heresy punishable by death.
Amidst this religious suppression, individuals who dared to question the geocentric model risked their lives to pursue scientific truth. The title “Chi.” carries a double meaning—referring to both “blood” and “knowledge”—symbolizing the sacrifices made in the name of intellectual freedom.
◆ Episode 7 Summary: “If It’s for the Sake of Truth”
Following the dramatic end to the arc of the previous protagonist Rafau in Episode 6, Episode 7 marks the beginning of a new chapter. The stage shifts, and we meet new characters who continue the pursuit of truth and knowledge.
The episode opens from the perspective of Yolenta, a young woman working in an astronomical research institute. Despite her intelligence and deep knowledge of astronomy, she is not officially recognized as a researcher simply because she is a woman. Instead, she is assigned menial tasks within the institution.
Meanwhile, a peculiar practice has begun in town: astronomical riddles are posted on a public bulletin board, with a monetary reward for anyone who can solve them. Yolenta, driven by curiosity and a suppressed yearning for recognition, decides to challenge one of these riddles.
Another key figure introduced is Badeni, a scholar secretly in possession of forbidden heliocentric materials handed down from Rafau. He too arrives in town, intrigued by the posted question. There, he witnesses Yolenta’s remarkable deductive skills and realizes her potential.
Episode 7 sets the stage for a new generation of seekers—those who will carry forward Rafau’s will and continue the dangerous pursuit of truth.
◆ Social Commentary: Gender Discrimination in the 15th Century
One of the most striking aspects of Episode 7 is Yolenta’s situation. Despite her superior capabilities in observation and calculation, she is relegated to the sidelines purely due to her gender. This reflects the patriarchal and religious power structures of 15th-century Europe, where women were often barred from academic or scientific fields.
However, Yolenta does not surrender to this unjust reality. Instead, she seeks to prove her worth by answering the posted riddle—her silent yet powerful act of rebellion. Her actions embody the strength and dignity of a true intellectual, and suggest that she is a worthy successor to those who died defending free thought.
◆ The Power of Foreshadowing
Episode 7 masterfully weaves several subtle threads of foreshadowing into the narrative.
Take, for instance, the astronomical question posted on the board. While it may appear as a simple riddle, it functions as a litmus test—intended to identify those capable of approaching the truth. Although the question is posted by proponents of the geocentric model, their recognition of intellect suggests a complicated dynamic: even the “enemy” acknowledges the brilliance of those who dare to think.
Another key element is the observational records referenced by Badeni. Though briefly mentioned, these notes will likely play a crucial role in the future, as precise data is essential for verifying heliocentric theories. The episode hints that conflicts over these records—and what they imply—will soon emerge.
Finally, the budding relationship between Yolenta and Badeni is also ripe with narrative potential. Will they become allies in truth? Or will differing approaches lead to conflict? The seeds of such dynamics are sown here.
◆ Episode 7 and the Theme of Inheritance
The conclusion of Rafau’s arc left a vacuum—one that Episode 7 begins to fill with new successors. Chi. consistently presents the pursuit of truth not as a one-time endeavor, but as a continuous effort passed from one generation to the next.
Knowledge does not survive merely through books or documents—it lives through people. And in this episode, Yolenta becomes the new vessel of that living will. She does not even know the full weight of the legacy she is inheriting, but her mind and determination already align with the core values of those before her.
The legacy of heliocentrism—once protected with blood and secrecy—is now stirring again through her hands and eyes.
◆ Episode 7 as a “Second Beginning”
Episode 7 is best described as a “second beginning.” While the emotional gravity of Rafau’s arc looms large, the torch has clearly been passed. The introduction of Yolenta breathes new life into the story, offering a fresh perspective and highlighting that the struggle for truth continues, albeit in new forms.
Yolenta’s silent rebellion against systemic sexism and her passion for the stars mirror the philosophical themes of the entire series: that truth often arises in opposition to authority and tradition, and that the pursuit of knowledge requires both intellect and courage.
In that sense, Episode 7 rekindles the very spirit of Chi., reminding viewers that even in the darkest of times, the flame of inquiry cannot be extinguished.
◆ Final Thoughts
Episode 7 of Chi.: About the Movement of the Earth shifts gears both in setting and in cast, but it retains the soul of the story—an unwavering devotion to truth, even at great personal cost. With the introduction of Yolenta and Badeni, the anime signals that the journey toward understanding has only just begun.
Yolenta’s brilliance and quiet determination hint at her future importance in the unfolding narrative. Watching her rise against societal limitations adds emotional depth and modern relevance to the story, resonating with issues still present in today’s world.
If you’ve just watched Episode 7, try going back to Episode 1 with these themes in mind. You may find yourself even more moved by the evolving lineage of thinkers who—across generations—refuse to let the truth be buried.