The manipulation of fate and circumstance plays a significant role in Light Yagami's plans and schemes in the anime "Death Note." Light uses the Death Note, a supernatural notebook that allows him to kill anyone whose name he writes in it, to manipulate fate and create circumstances that align with his goal of creating a utopian society. By controlling who lives and dies, Light believes he can shape the world according to his vision and eliminate those he deems unworthy or obstacles to his plans. His strategic manipulation of fate and circumstances is central to his actions throughout the series.