Anime History and Definition

Study Notes

Anime is a style of Japanese animation that originated in the early 20th century
The word "anime" is derived from the French term "animation"
Anime is a diverse medium, encompassing a wide range of genres, styles, and themes

Early anime (1910s-1940s):
- Influenced by Western animation and Japanese manga (comics)
- Pioneers: Ōten Shimokawa, Jun'ichi Kōuchi, and Seitaro Kitayama
Post-WWII anime (1940s-1960s):
- Emergence of TV anime and the rise of Mushi Productions (founded by Osamu Tezuka)
- Influential works: Astro Boy (1963), Kimba the White Lion (1965)
Modern anime (1970s-1980s):
- Increased popularity and international recognition
- Notable works: Lupin III (1971), Mobile Suit Gundam (1979)

Visual style:
- Exaggerated facial expressions and body language
- Vibrant colors, dynamic backgrounds, and detailed character designs
Storytelling:
- Often features complex, serialized narratives
- Incorporates elements of Japanese culture, folklore, and history
Themes:
- Coming-of-age, friendship, love, and self-discovery
- Science fiction, fantasy, action, and drama

Shonen:
- Action-adventure, fantasy, and science fiction aimed at boys and young men
- Examples: Dragon Ball, Naruto, One Piece
Shojo:
- Romance, relationships, and drama aimed at girls and young women
- Examples: Sailor Moon, Fruits Basket, Cardcaptor Sakura
Seinen and Josei:
- Mature, psychological, and dramatic themes aimed at older men and women
- Examples: Akira, Ghost in the Shell, Nana

Japan's anime industry is a significant contributor to the country's economy
Anime has inspired numerous adaptations, spin-offs, and merchandise
Global influence:
- Inspired Western animation and comics
- Fandoms and communities worldwide

Anime is a style of Japanese animation originating in the early 20th century
The term "anime" is derived from the French term "animation"
Anime is a diverse medium, encompassing a wide range of genres, styles, and themes

Early anime (1910s-1940s) was influenced by Western animation and Japanese manga (comics)
Pioneers of early anime include Ōten Shimokawa, Jun'ichi Kōuchi, and Seitaro Kitayama
Post-WWII anime (1940s-1960s) saw the emergence of TV anime and the rise of Mushi Productions (founded by Osamu Tezuka)
Influential works of this period include Astro Boy (1963) and Kimba the White Lion (1965)
Modern anime (1970s-1980s) saw increased popularity and international recognition
Notable works of this period include Lupin III (1971) and Mobile Suit Gundam (1979)

Anime is characterized by exaggerated facial expressions and body language
Vibrant colors, dynamic backgrounds, and detailed character designs are also distinctive features
Anime often features complex, serialized narratives
Incorporates elements of Japanese culture, folklore, and history
Themes include coming-of-age, friendship, love, and self-discovery
Science fiction, fantasy, action, and drama are also common themes

Shonen anime targets boys and young men, often featuring action-adventure, fantasy, and science fiction
Examples of Shonen anime include Dragon Ball, Naruto, and One Piece
Shojo anime targets girls and young women, often featuring romance, relationships, and drama
Examples of Shojo anime include Sailor Moon, Fruits Basket, and Cardcaptor Sakura
Seinen and Josei anime target older men and women, featuring mature, psychological, and dramatic themes
Examples of Seinen and Josei anime include Akira, Ghost in the Shell, and Nana