COLLECTION NAME:
Graduate Thesis Collection
Record
Title:
The Evolution and Portrayal of Yokai in Japanese Myth, History, and Entertainment
Creator:
Meeker, Andrew T.
Subject:
Thesis (M.F.A.) -- Animation
Subject:
Savannah College of Art and Design -- Department of Animation
Rights:
Copyright is retained by the authors or artists of items in this collection, or their descendants, as stipulated by United States copyright law.
Abstract:
"Yōkai are a supernatural class of monsters, spirits, and demons in Japanese folklore. These creatures have many forms born out of religious and cultural contexts – respected as kami (gods), feared as oni (demons), or even seen as bringers of fortune. Yōkai are manifested in a variety of ways, with their external appearance taking on visuals of animals, humans, monsters, and physical forms of nature and elements. Yōkai, and oni specifically, have evolved heavily through their existence as grotesque creatures, political and war driven symbols, and cute, enjoyable anime and manga icons. This thesis explores the development and design of many of these beings, including their origins, appearances, behaviors, known portrayals, and uses throughout history in Japan. These elements influenced everything from medieval rituals, international, political, and religious viewpoints, and the characters, creatures, and concepts of film and animation in the modern age. Yōkai, oni, and kami characteristics and personalities are centered around various categories: combinations of animal and elemental beings; playful and curious critters; guardians, gods, and spirits; demons, death, and the supernatural; and/or even humankind itself. Through the lens of Japanese mythology and folklore, this thesis will show and discuss the evolution and application of yōkai, oni, and kami by applying historical and cultural contexts to analyze how Japan, its people, and the world have been influenced and impacted by these mysterious beings." --Abstract
*Keywords: yōkai, oni, kami, Japanese mythology, animation, propaganda
*Keywords: yōkai, oni, kami, Japanese mythology, animation, propaganda
Publisher:
Savannah, Georgia : Savannah College of Art and Design
Date:
2021-02
Format:
PDF (45 pages, color illustrations) + 1 mp4 film (approximately 5 min., sound, color)