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Hetalia Blog Post

I really liked this anime. There’s just something about bringing unreal things to life. The way countries are now characters and the narrative itself is filled with humor but also allows for room to explore national identities and historical relationships is what exactly interests me, especially as an International Studies major. I think it makes the storytelling more accessible in a way and better understood for all, while also being entertaining. Themes of nationalism and stereotypes are evident here. In a world where international relations are crucial and stereotypes are ongoing, it is relevant to foster cooperation and dialogue. This anime incites a nature of pride and national identity through satire and historical rivalries, but it also can create misunderstandings as I feel like the stereptying was over simplified.

The anime prompted me to better understand my national identity. I am an American born citizen, but my family immigrated from India and I was brought up very close to my culture since I was always surrounded by my grandparents. I value cultural exchange a lot and that is primarily why I chose International Studies as a major with a focus on Asia. This anime helps reinforce the importance of approaching issues with an open mind and think critically with historical narratives. In connection to readings, nations are built through a shared sense of narrative and symbols. This “Imagined Community” plays into Hetalia and forces viewers to remember historical events and view them how they are represented, refreshing one’s memory and discussing identity formation. It also builds upon societal structures and frameworks as different cultures from different countries showcase various practices and partake in exclusive practices. However, with that being said, the exclusive nature of some culture can still mean for inclusive understanding to happen. In other words, open to the idea of learning about another culture and country while also respecting their own history and practices.

rushilsood

As an International Studies major, it’s great that you find the show both accessible and educational. I agree that while the satire can foster a sense of pride and identity, it can also oversimplify and reinforce stereotypes. Nice work!

Hetalia: Axis Powers stands out for its unique approach at depicting world history through anthropomorphized nations. Each country is personified, often with exaggerated stereotypes, engaging in comedic and sometimes poignant interactions that reflect their historical relationships. This setup offers a fresh and accessible way to explore complex geopolitical themes.

Hetalia highlights both Japanese and global issues through its portrayal of historical events and international relations. In Japan, the anime sparks discussions on national identity and the country’s role in global history. By using humor and satire, it encourages viewers to reflect on Japan’s past and its relationships with other countries, promoting a more nuanced understanding of history. Globally, the anime addresses themes of nationalism, war, and diplomacy. The exaggerated characteristics of each nation bring to light the absurdities and stereotypes that often underpin international relations. This satirical lens helps viewers recognize the complexity of global conflicts and the importance of understanding different cultural perspectives.

I personally believe Hetalia provides an entertaining yet insightful look at history, making it more relatable and engaging. The anthropomorphized nations and their interactions remind me of the importance of empathy and understanding in my own life. By seeing historical events from multiple viewpoints, I gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse experiences that shape our world.

Annett’s analysis in “World Conflict/World Conference: Axis Powers Hetalia” offers a valuable framework for understanding the anime’s impact. Annett explores how Hetalia uses humor to address serious historical and political issues, making them more approachable for a broad audience. This aligns with my experience of the anime, where the blend of comedy and history makes complex topics more digestible and engaging.

Given these points, Hetalia: Axis Powers is more than just a comedic portrayal of nations. It provides a unique lens through which to explore historical and global issues, encouraging viewers to reflect on the past and its influence on present-day international relations.

robian

Your Name

One of my all time favorite anime films for sure. Every time someone who doesn't watch anime asks me for a recc I always say "Your Name" which has also led me to watch this film like 4 different times. I was going to watch it again for this class, but honestly I can remember most of the movie by now from memory except, ironically, their names apparently because I'm sooo bad at remembering names😭. Also this movie definetly has the best plot twist of all time, gives me chills. Alright time to stop yapping about my love for this film and get to analyzing!

Some interesting information is that Makoto Shinkai was largely inspired by the events of the 2011 earthquake in Japan. Many people suffered and lost there lives. Makoto felt completely powerless and felt as if there was no way he could help these people. This led to him starting to portray disasters in his films such as Your Name, Weathering Away With You, and Suzume. Disasters seem to happen more frequently than ever and he wanted to do his best to "explore and face disasters that are only possible through anime and entertainment".

Okay the next theme people often think about when watching this movie is the red thread of fate which is a reference to old Asian Myth. Basically two people are fated to be together no matter what. Even though the main characters are seperated by time and space they are still pulled towards one another. But I'm going to hard disagree even if theres some obvious references to the thread of fate (I mean Mitsuha literally wears the red string of fate😭).

I think the movie is about destiny rather than fate. Now you may be asking "arent destiny and fate synonymous?" In contemporary english they might as well be but if you're as picky as me technically they aren't. Fate implies a predetermined outcome while destiny implies personal contribution to the outcome. The word "fate" originates from the latin word "fatum" which means "has been spoken". It implies an outside force predeterming an event. Destiny comes from the latin word "destinare" which means to "establishing or make firm". You pave the way to your own destiny. I say "Your Name" is a movie about destiny rather than fate because even though they are seperated by space and time, they both put in effort into reaching the movie's outcome. Quite literally they changed Mitsuha's destiny. Honestly, I'm definetly putting way too much thought into this movie and y'all probably think I'm just yapping, but I love this movie so please just give me a pass🙏.

Oh yeah, the movie also has a somewhat romantic theme (tying in with the red string of fate), but honestly I think this movie is so much more than just romance, so I'll spare you and myself from any more writing.

pari-patel

Hey Robian! It’s clear why this film holds such a special place in your heart. The sense of helplessness and the impact of natural disasters are deeply woven into the narrative, reflecting the real-world experiences of loss and resilience. The detrimental impacts on the environment have long been occurring and it is imperative we address them; this anime did a good job exploring those themes. The distinction you make between the two concepts, fate and destiny, adds depth to the narrative. This perspective enriches the viewing experience, prompting audiences to reflect on their own lives and the balance between destiny and self-driven change. I know, for me at least, it allows me to think back on my ecological footprint and brainstorm ways to reduce it because I am very environmentally savvy!

rushilsood

For Robian:

I appreciate how you highlight the active role the characters play in shaping their futures, emphasizing that their efforts and choices are pivotal in altering the course of events. This interpretation aligns well with the film’s theme of connection and agency. Nice work!

Your Name is a film that goes beyond cultural and geographical boundaries, connecting with audiences everywhere. The story follows two teenagers, Taki and Mitsuha, who mysteriously swap bodies. This magical premise dives deep into themes of identity, connection, and the blend of personal and societal issues.

The film tackles several important issues within Japan and globally. One major theme is the rural-urban divide. Mitsuha’s life in a small, traditional town is starkly different from Taki’s fast-paced Tokyo life. This contrast reflects the ongoing struggles many Japanese towns face due to urban migration, leading to depopulation and cultural loss. Globally, it mirrors the challenges of preserving cultural heritage amidst rapid modernization. Another significant issue is disaster preparedness. The comet disaster in Your Name is reminiscent of real-life events like the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami. It highlights the importance of memory and collective effort in overcoming such tragedies, a theme that resonates worldwide in an era of increasing natural disasters.

On a personal level, the film brings up feelings of nostalgia and a longing for connections that go beyond time and space. The idea of swapping bodies and lives, even temporarily, makes you think about the nature of empathy and understanding. It made me reflect on the everyday challenges and joys that others experience, deepening my appreciation for diverse perspectives.

Michel Foucault’s “The History of Sexuality” offers a unique way to analyze Your Name. Foucault’s method emphasizes the historical and social construction of identities and the power dynamics involved. In Your Name, the body-swapping can be seen as a metaphor for the fluidity of identity and how personal and social histories shape our experiences. The characters’ struggles with their new identities reflect Foucault’s idea that identity is not fixed but is continuously constructed through discourse and power relations.

kwanyoung

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 | Themes of Ecocriticism

The Plot Of The Anime

This is quite of a different medium (a whole ass video game) but it does share similarities to the anime art style. Although there seems to be a lot of narrative arcs, I will be finding and focusing on the relevant ones that can be turned into an "eco-text" narrative with a theme to it, as well as referencing it from the lectures from the Japanese course professor. So this means I am going to focus on the cutscenes and look for themes of environmental issues.

In the world of Xenoblade Chronicles 2, a disaster has swiped the world, making most of the areas inhabitable. The humans have to live in small but constraint spaces in the world which is now a vast wasteland. Similarity to Nausicaä in the anime Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, who thrives in the Valley of the Wind, while Xenoblade characters thrive on the backs of the giant Titan species functioning as land. However, the world becomes a vast wasteland as the Titans dies and nature starts deteriorating and sinks into the Cloud Sea, which becomes a threat (basically the Sea of Decay but with clouds and ocean, which is similar to worst man-made disasters like nuclear winter and rising sea levels due to climate change).

Thus, the main element of both stories are basically most of the world turning into a wasteland. Theres also a vision of a heaven-like place thats supposed to come at the end, where the wasteland is no more and nature fills the world (similar to most endings of ecological disaster media or films). However when the characters finally went there, they find that it's all dead and only an artificial space station is left. They went inside and met Klaus, who said his experiment accidentally destroyed his world, to the point nature cannot restore itself anymore (all humans, plants, animals, etc.). This is like how a thousand years ago in Nausicaä where there was war that destroyed nature, however in Xenoblade, there was no life left.

We also learn that nano-machines make up the Cloud Sea and they collect genetic lifeforms for Titans to grow and give new life. This leads to nature being restored artificially to bring back nature, which humans can now thrive on now.

The Issue In Question

Here is the point I want to mention regarding how nature is restored: it is purely artificial. The nanotechnologies are created by Klaus, a human, to restore nature on his own. Originally, philosophies tell us that nature will only restore on its own will without human interference or contributions. However, the destruction we see in the game is so bad that nature cannot restore itself and that humans need to actually do something to restore nature. This basically shows a debate on human reliance on nature and nature reliance on humans, that if one is gone, the other will also slowly die out.

The Issue Addressed In Japan & Beyond

Now we do not have nano-machines capable of recreating life just like in the game, however this theory can be applied worldwide and we can see attempts made by environmentalists and scientists in trying to actually help nature. Conservational places are crucial in preventing a species from going extinct so when there is no more of a important species left to keep a habitat going, conservation areas already created backups (artificially using human interventions) to release it back to the wild. Additionally, we have scientists creating breakthrough DNA manipulation to revive a species, so indeed it proves the existence of a debate of whether nature needs human's reliance and vice versa, or nature and humanity are and will always be separate.

My Personal Takes

Honestly, I thought humans are part of nature since they branched from other animals through evolution, however I can see why in most cases humans are treated as a different force, rather than being part of the force of nature itself. I am a human, and I'm pretty sure you and the audience are all humans (correct me if I'm wrong?), so as a human, I can see how we branch out of the force of nature due to our developments like technologies and exploiting or manipulating nature, something nature itself cannot do (we feel like gods and animals are inferior).

So, regarding the debate if nature relies on us humans and vice versa, I think that is a yes because we are not like fully integrated into the force of nature so if nature dies, we could still be alive and genius could figure out how to recreate nature artificially. On the other hand, the reason why humans would be recreating nature is that humans need resources like food and clean water or bio products for their survival. However, this is still quite of a debate and my opinions or perspectives here might not be compatible to the debate itself (this can also be an issue too).

rushilsood

Your analogy of feeling like gods and viewing animals as inferior emphasizes the need for humility and respect towards nature. Well said!

Xenoblade Chronicles 2, an anime-style video game developed by Monolith Soft, offers more than just stunning visuals and engaging gameplay. It tackles important issues relevant both in Japan and globally, making it a thought-provoking experience for players. Luckily, I’ve played the game before, so I didn’t need to watch the attached module video.

In Japan, the game’s focus on resource scarcity and technological advancement hits home. As an island nation with limited resources, Japan constantly struggles to balance technological progress with environmental preservation. The game’s world, where humanity survives on the backs of giant Titans due to a depleted planet, reflects this real-world issue. On a global level, Xenoblade Chronicles 2 addresses themes like environmental degradation, the ethical use of technology, and the consequences of exploiting natural resources. These are universal concerns that resonate with players around the world, especially in the context of the Anthropocene—the current era where human activity has significantly impacted the Earth’s geology and ecosystems.

Personally, playing Xenoblade Chronicles 2 has been a reflective experience. While I’m not deeply involved in environmental activism, the game’s emphasis on the delicate balance between human needs and environmental sustainability resonates with me. It reminds me of my own efforts to be more eco-conscious, like reducing plastic use and supporting green initiatives. The game’s protagonist, Rex, and his quest to save the world by restoring its natural order, inspire me to consider my role in contributing to a healthier planet. His journey highlights the importance of hope, perseverance, and the belief that individual actions can make a difference—values that I strive to incorporate into my own life.

Connecting this to “The Drama of the Anthropocene,” Xenoblade Chronicles 2 vividly illustrates the dramatic shifts humans have brought upon their world, akin to the real-world Anthropocene epoch. The game portrays a civilization heavily reliant on its environment, yet facing the repercussions of its actions—mirroring our own era’s ecological crises. The Titans, much like our planet, are living entities supporting life, and their gradual decline echoes the degradation of Earth’s ecosystems. This parallel encourages players to consider the long-term impacts of human actions on our planet.

In conclusion, Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is more than just a video game; it’s a narrative that provokes thought about our world and our role within it. By addressing both local and global issues, it remains relevant and engaging. The game’s rich storytelling and complex themes inspire players to reflect on their own lives and the broader consequences of their actions.

pari-patel

Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind Blog Post

I can immediately tell there’s a strong focus on the environment, its degradation, and the impact it has on human lives. It seems pretty obvious that the Toxic Jungle is a metaphor to pollution. Japan, especially Tokyo, has experiences many environmental challenges, so this anime being a reflection of that is actually interesting. It is imperative countries across the world recognize the detrimental impact of environmental degradation, like pollution, and find an urgent need to practice suitable actions. Nausicaa’s relationship with the Jungle creature is another metaphor for her respect to nature I believe. Nature is an interconnected force that’s he recognized, which is contrary to what many others believe. It challenges the viewer and forces them to see a positive perspective with nature. Preserving the planet and keeping it clean is what every individual, citizen, government, and country should strive for as it is all our homes after all!

Personally, I am not too much of a nature or out-door person. This anime, however, made me reflect on my relationship with the natural environment. I do my best to use paper straws instead of plastic, recycle, and every year I participate in a walk-a-thon to raise money to plant trees. (#WalkGreen) When I was in Student Government at UF, I even advocated for a more Green Campus to better help the environment and individuals who attend here! However, there is always more you can do. Like, for example, I could reduce plastic use or where clothing materials that are more ecologically friendly to better preserve our environment! Every actions counts towards reducing our ecological footprints and I do believe it starts with you. This anime aligns with past readings or other anime in the sense that it highlights how we interact with our planet and how it further affects human lives. It brings a conscientious and respectful approach to showcasing the detrimental effects of pesticides and toxic wastes on the environment.

rushilsood

The connection you draw between the anime and its portrayal of environmental consequences is both relevant and thought-provoking. Your commitment to using paper straws, recycling, participating in walk-a-thons, and advocating for a greener campus at UF shows your dedication to making a positive impact. Well done!

Hayao Miyazaki’s Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind is a classic that tackles both local and global issues with remarkable depth. Its themes of environmentalism, war, and human interaction with nature make it a timeless piece that continues to resonate today.

In Japan, the film’s portrayal of a world ravaged by pollution and industrialization hits close to home. The toxic forests and giant insects reflect the country’s own battles with environmental damage and the conflict between progress and preservation. On a global scale, the movie speaks to universal concerns like climate change, dwindling resources, and ethical environmental practices. Nausicaa, our heroine, represents a balance between human development and nature, showing that harmony isn’t just a lofty goal but essential for survival.

Watching Nausicaa brought to mind my own experiences and challenges. The film’s emphasis on resilience, compassion, and the fight for a just cause parallels the struggles many of us face in our daily lives. Nausicaä’s courage and unwavering commitment to peace inspire me to tackle obstacles with a similar spirit of determination and empathy. Her ability to bridge divides and foster understanding among disparate groups offers a powerful lesson in leadership and conflict resolution.

Connell’s concept of hegemonic masculinity, which explores the dominant form of masculinity that subordinates others, can be seen in the dynamics between the film’s characters. The militaristic Tolmekians represent hegemonic masculinity through their aggressive pursuit of power and domination. In contrast, Nausicaä’s leadership style, which incorporates traditionally “feminine” traits like empathy and nurturing, challenges these norms. She exemplifies a form of resistance to hegemonic masculinity, highlighting the importance of diverse and inclusive leadership.

Given these points, Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind is more than just a beautiful animated film; it’s a poignant commentary on human nature and our relationship with the world. By addressing both local and global issues, it remains relevant decades after its release. Reflecting on the film encourages viewers to consider their own roles in fostering a more harmonious and equitable society, much like Nausicaa herself.

kwanyoung

The End of Evangelion | Themes of Individualism & Reality

The Plot Of The Anime

After the massive destruction and near human extinction, traumatic flashbacks of Asuka Langley Soryu's mother committing suicide, as well as the defeat of her beloved Evangelion Unit-002, we can see that Asuka is comatose, and Shinji Ikari is trying to wake her up, but eventually goes desolate and not responding.

All the Angels have been defeated and there isn't much to do with the Evangelions now. We also get an insight into the Human Instrumentality Project, which Gendo Ikari and SEELE (a secret organization) proposed to force evolve humanity. They believe that humanity reached its evolutionary limits (as we can see Angel species dominate in power) and calls humans and living beings weak and flawed. They thought that merging the existence of everyone into one whole, super-entity, instead of making the beings independent, would make them stronger and comparable to entities like the Angels, as well as solving independent struggles and hating of their own kind. Gendo, personally pushes the project just to see his dead wife again. SEELE, however is hacking NERV's Magi super computers so they can do their agenda before Gendo can, eventually turning into all-out war.

In the near end, Shinji goes hysterical as he witnesses the awakening of the angels (Lilith), a part of SEELE's master plan towards instrumentality.

The Issue In Question

Honestly, this movie took on a very weird and disorienting storyline, so finding themes were quite hard to do so. However, I want to talk about individualism in the space of reality. In the end, the anime talks about reality and the fact the composition went from anime to cinematography. Reality is reality, and you cannot escape it. Dreams and fantasy are where you can find happiness, but it is temporary, and reality will always come for you in the end. Individual-wise, if there was no individuality, and if all entities merged into one, you will be everyone but also nobody. There will be no pain, no suffering, no individual thinking. The concept of fear is lost, there is nothing good in this new combined reality. We see that there is a 5 billion year cycle between individual humans and a single god, and neither can coexist at one period (humans probably messed up injecting angelic remains into individual beings). We can only have individual humans, or all the humans merging into a one supreme being.

So what can I obtain from this? I personally don't have a clear answer. Also, watching this movie quite damaged my mentality in some way. However, I might suggest that what an individual must find is happiness, by facing the fears of society, and suffering through pain. Society and the individual must understand each and they are humans and humans are humans, separated by individualism and scattered from a spectrum whole. But who knows, the movie seems interpretive anyways.

The Issue Addressed In Japan & Beyond

Our world is reality, the place we live and the place we are conscious in. In our world, there is no escaping. Dreams and fantasy are inside our reality and are temporary means of happiness, whether that is sleeping or diving into fiction. It is important for an individual to find happiness in their life and there are no shortcuts. Pain, fear, and suffering are all part of the cycle of living, especially you, and one must suffer through it while maintaining your individualism (be like yourself), which is a good thing as other people can understand who you are in reality and you will find some good helpful people. Our reality does not have a single being just like how all the souls merged in the anime, we have to cope living in this reality.

My Personal Takes

I don't know. My previous statement is what I think about my reality. The movie itself felt like a fever dream, and I writing like I am going through that phase in this blog. My reality is shared among everyone but it is the individual that isn't shared. My individual, my body, my control. By being an individual, I have my own will to shape and bend reality how I want (however in small local bits and if I am confident enough with no pain, fear, nor suffering blocking my path). How I perceive myself and the forgoing reality is destined to becoming my future. I had this kind of thinking and it applies especially in college. If I have a strategic path through reality and have the confidence to execute it, the future will eventually bring me happiness and success.

--- Hysteria mode has ended ---

rushilsood

Your view that your perception and confidence shape your reality really stands out. It’s a compelling reminder of how personal belief and strategic thinking can influence our path to success and happiness. Nice work!

The End of Evangelion is a profound and complex film that offers a deeper exploration into the themes of Neon Genesis Evangelion. It delves into the intricacies of human psyche, societal expectations, and personal identity, addressing issues both within Japan and on a global scale.

The film addresses various societal issues, particularly focusing on the individual’s role in society and the immense pressure to conform. In Japan, where societal expectations are extremely high, the film highlights the mental strain and isolation that come with these pressures. Globally, it resonates with the universal human experience of seeking connection and understanding amidst existential dread.

The apocalyptic scenario in the film symbolizes the collective anxiety and fear of an uncertain future, a sentiment felt worldwide. The collapse of societal structures and the ensuing chaos reflect the fragility of modern societies and the constant fear of societal breakdown.

On a personal level, The End of Evangelion resonates with the challenges of confronting one’s inner turmoil and reconciling personal desires with external expectations. The film’s intense psychological and emotional landscape reflects the often turbulent journey of understanding oneself and navigating relationships in a complex world. The characters’ struggles with identity and self-worth mirror many of my own experiences with self-acceptance and finding a place where I truly belong.

Connell’s theory of masculinities is evident in the film’s exploration of hegemonic, subordinate, and marginalized masculinities. Shinji’s struggle to assert his identity and find his place in a world dominated by traditional masculine ideals highlights the conflict between hegemonic masculinity and more vulnerable, introspective forms. His journey reflects the marginalization of those who do not conform to conventional masculine norms.

Given these points, The End of Evangelion explores complex societal and personal issues, striking a chord with both Japanese and global audiences. The film’s intense focus on existential and psychological themes, coupled with its critique of traditional masculinity, offers a thought-provoking end to the series. It encourages viewers to reflect on their own experiences with identity, societal pressures, and the quest for meaningful connections.

kwanyoung

Neon Genesis Evangelion (Part 2) | Themes of Masculinity & Belonging

The Plot Of The Anime

We skip to the later episodes starting with the 8th episode of Neon Genesis Evangelion. After Shinji Ikari (Third Child), the main character, finally meets Rei Ayanami (First Child), he will also meet Asuka Langley Soryu (Second Child), who unlike Rei, who is obedient, quiet, and mysterious, Asuka is more violence-orientated and talkative who can control her Evangelion Unit-02 very well in combat. He does get some confidence from Asuka, leading to improved results when he decided to give another try controlling Evangelion Unit-01. However, his confidence is lost when he faces an Angel on his own, which creates a void that sucks him in, unable to escape but panic. Shinji would contemplate about his life and who he is, turning his mech violent and shredding the Angel.

After a few episodes later, on episode 24, we see Asuka's mental health being deteriorated because of her childhood, turning her from a violent and competitive child to a desolate one. Shinji also lost his friends and the city is left of its remains. But, Shinji finds another person who also felt the same as him, Kaworu Nagisa (Fifth Child). Rei and Kaworu are from similar origins, both being half human and half Angel and Rei is found to be a clone that can be replaced for every death. Kaworu is quite affectionate towards Shinji even though both are male, but also complex as he is half-angel whose purpose is to end humanity, eventually letting Shinji decide humanity. Finally, on episode 26, we see the characters contemplating about their struggles. Eventually, Shinji finds himself in his reality and he comes to accept who he is, that he isn't actually alone and it's because of how he perceives it. At the end, he is congratulated by the people he knows.

The Issue In Question

We can discuss about how one would come to hate themselves, especially who they are in their own perception. Shinji, for example, has traits that make him different from most men, having queer masculinity traits (although he is straight), meaning he does not possess the traits of hegemony masculinity. After understanding his so called flaw, he started to hate himself. At the end, he became convinced that it is ok for who he is and there are supporters who congratulate him because of his newfound understanding.

The Issue Addressed In Japan & Beyond

In our world, there are people with personalities, not just the fixed personality of a male for male and a female for female, but one's gender could intertwin with another biological sex or an unidentified identity. Specifically focusing on biological males, this queer masculinity is a unique type of masculinity compared hegemony masculinity, as it challenges that traditional hegemonic norms. This is especially common for men who is associated with LGBTQ+, although it is also widely seen in straight men.

The issue is that there are men who believe they are in a state of aloneness because they believe their personality, or "masculinity" do not fit the preferred ones in society that make one a socially ideal person. What they can do is to rethink their approaches about themselves and think of those who care about them (families, relatives, closer friends, etc.), or find social spaces that they feel comfortable in finding new people that they can relate to. This is basically like when Shinji met Kaworu and realized their similarities where both do not fit in the category of hegemonic masculinity.

My Personal Takes

Honestly, I had thoughts of being alone and that that nobody liked me and who I am. This thought started around middle school, and then became worse in high school, as I myself isn't a social person due to my limited ability to talk normally. I do not also identify as having a hegemonic masculinity as well as I am introverted and more on the passive side of personality. However, I came to accept who I am and tried my best to find someone who I and they can relate to, which worked and I got to make friends similar to who I am, which expanded through friend groups where I can explore who I think is suitable. However, this quite changed when I entered college this summer. Colleges tend to have strict selection for student candidates so most of my high school friends did not make it and I feel that the students here are more hegemonic masculinity orientated through observation. But at least I will try my best to present myself to new students and create new relations.

rushilsood

Your reflections on entering college and encountering a different social dynamic resonate with me. It can be daunting to adapt to an environment where traditional notions of masculinity seem more prevalent. However, your commitment to presenting yourself authentically and forming new connections is commendable. It’s a reminder that building meaningful relationships often starts with being true to oneself. Thank you for sharing your story.

Episodes 8, 16, 24, and 26 of Neon Genesis Evangelion dive into the complexities of human relationships, societal expectations, and personal identity. These episodes tackle both Japanese societal concerns and universal themes, offering a rich field for reflection.

Episode 8 introduces Asuka Langley Soryu, bringing a new dynamic that highlights the competitive nature of academic and professional environments in Japan. Her drive to prove herself mirrors the global pressure on youth to excel. This episode also touches on national pride and the burden of representing one’s country, reflecting Japan’s post-war identity crisis. Episode 16 delves into psychological introspection as Shinji gets trapped in an alternate dimension. This episode addresses mental health issues, particularly the struggle with self-worth and identity. These themes are universally relevant, highlighting the internal battles many face in a world that often prioritizes external success over internal well-being. Additionally, episode 24 introduces Kaworu Nagisa, whose ambiguous relationship with Shinji challenges traditional notions of masculinity and sexuality. This episode addresses Japan’s often conservative stance on LGBTQ+ issues and resonates globally as societies grapple with acceptance and understanding of diverse sexual identities. Finally, episode 26 offers a philosophical and introspective conclusion to the series, focusing on self-acceptance and realizing one’s worth beyond societal expectations. This episode’s abstract exploration of individual consciousness mirrors the global quest for personal fulfillment in an increasingly complex world.

These episodes resonate deeply with me. Asuka’s introduction in episode 8 reminds me of the competitive nature of my own academic and professional journey, where the need to prove oneself often overshadows personal well-being. Episode 16’s portrayal of Shinji’s psychological struggle echoes my own experiences grappling with self-worth and identity in a demanding world.

Connell’s theory on masculinities is evident in these episodes. Asuka’s assertive and competitive nature in episode 8 contrasts with Shinji’s more passive and introspective demeanor, highlighting the hegemonic and subordinate masculinities at play. Episode 16’s focus on Shinji’s internal struggle showcases the marginalization of vulnerable masculinity, often overshadowed by more dominant traits.

kwanyoung

Neon Genesis Evangelion (Part 1) | Themes of Masculinity & War

The Plot Of The Anime

Violent enemies, called Angels, roam the planet Earth and cause havoc on the human created infrastructure. A young boy named Shinji Ikari is forced to join the NERV (a secret organization under the United Nations who battles against the Angels) by his father Gendo Ikari, who is a commander of the organization, with complex relationships with him. Gendo is also the director of the construction of the top-secret Evangelion weapon project. Shinji eventually is tasked to control Evangelion Unit-01 to battle against the Angels with his group, which Evangelion Unit-01, being a powerful giant biological mech, much like what you see in Mobile Suit Gundam (I should stop making references to that dumb anime).

The Issue In Question

In episode 1, we can clearly see themes of masculinity crossed with themes of war. Gendo is the director and has a powerful position in the United Nation's secret initiative, NERV, who was also chosen by his authorities to do what he wants in control. We see that this reflects the male hegemony system, where males dominate over females in crucial positions or missions. Additionally, we can see the father wants his son, Shinji to be the one to pilot the mech and engage in war, which also shows this pattern of passing that male hegemony system down as society expects men to be mentally strong and discipline, even though Shinji is a child. However, Shinji is more of a different person, showing a presence of a female's gender performance (according our society), refusing to pilot the mech and go to war, which subverts the social norms in the anime. This is also one of the reasons why the son-father relationship is poor as the father is seen more as a masculine figure while the son has a more feminine figurine side, but I will probably discuss more on that on another blog as the focus for this blog is male hegemony.

The Issue Addressed In Japan & Beyond

Male hegemony is very present in our modern world and even has been the same historically. Men are more likely to take on very powerful positions such as being a president of a wealthy nation, a general of a powerful military, or even a CEO of a large company. In Japan for example, there hasn't been a female prime minister yet, nor in the United States, has there been a female president. Most if not all CEOs of the most valued companies around the world are occupied by males. of In the This leaves women to take on less powerful positions, specifically roles that meet what society expects in gender performance like nurturing or housework for women. However, this situation has been improving as a result of awareness for gender equality and the laws passed with it. Females started rising in importance in society and are praised for taking more powerful roles males formally took on.

My Personal Takes

I want to talk about my personality and my physiques as a male and how it doesn't really reflect how society imagines a true male looks. Men tend to look tall, muscular, and handsome as those are physical traits that make of masculinity (sounds like muscular). I do not possess most of those traits as I am a lean person who often loses in arm wrestling. However, I am tall, but not as tall as some of the more masculine dudes out there, and also I did not win the genetics of having a handsome facial features like a diamond-edged jawline.

The more related personal aspect of me to this blog is the personality aspect, where my dad's personality is very ruthless and scary, especially when he gets mad. I do not have those traits as my siblings don't seem to be scared of me at all. I do have a big soft side like Shinji in the anime and also have contrasting personalities to my dad just like Shinji and Gendo.

rushilsood

I appreciate your personal take on the show and how you relate to Shinji’s experience. It’s interesting to hear about your perspective on societal expectations of masculinity, especially when it comes to physical traits. Like you, I also find Shinji’s character relatable, particularly in how his softer, more introspective nature contrasts with the more traditionally masculine traits exhibited by others, including his father.

Neon Genesis Evangelion, a groundbreaking anime series, explores personal and societal issues through its intricate storyline and characters. Episodes 1, 2, 4, and 5 lay the foundation for a deep exploration of Japanese societal issues and themes that resonate globally.

From the start, Evangelion tackles themes of isolation and societal pressure to conform, mirroring Japan’s societal issues. The protagonist, Shinji Ikari, represents the “hikikomori” phenomenon—people who withdraw from social life due to intense societal pressure. This theme resonates globally, as many people feel isolated and anxious due to societal expectations. The series also explores intergenerational trauma, shown through Shinji’s strained relationship with his father, Gendo. This reflects worldwide familial tensions, where parental expectations clash with personal aspirations.

Evangelion resonates with me on many levels. Shinji’s reluctance to pilot the Eva to gain his father’s approval reflects the struggle many face in balancing personal desires with external expectations. The portrayal of mental health issues and coping mechanisms is particularly poignant. Shinji’s internal battles remind me of my own experiences navigating mental health challenges while trying to meet external demands.

Connell’s theory on masculinities, especially hegemony, subordination, complicity, and marginalization, is evident throughout these episodes. Shinji represents marginalized masculinity, often overshadowed by dominant figures like Gendo and the military personnel. His reluctance and vulnerability contrast sharply with the hegemonic masculinity shown by characters who display traditional traits of strength and stoicism. This highlights the pressure to conform to societal norms of masculinity, a struggle that crosses cultural boundaries.

Given these points, the early episode of Neon Genesis Evangelion lay the groundwork for a rich exploration of both personal and societal issues. The series’ reflection on Japanese societal pressures, mental health, and familial relationships offers a mirror to universal experiences. The interplay of Connell’s masculinity theory within the narrative adds a layer of depth, prompting viewers to question and reflect on their own experiences with societal norms and personal identity.

kwanyoung

Wandering Son | Themes of

The Plot of the Anime

The anime takes place in the first year of middle school. We are introduced with Nitori Shuichi, who identifies as female while assigned male during birth, which they wear a woman wig and woman uniform. The second main character, Takatsuki Yoshino, is introduced, who identities as a male while assigned female during birth, who has short hair and male uniform. The characters see that students are more mature and are settling into their classes. When the students are introduced, we can notice some have gender non-conforming traits (e.g. having no preferences wearing gender-matching uniforms), which shows how gender-fluid their world is. It also appears that Shuichi has affection towards Yoshino at one point, but Shuichi doesn't understand what love is.

The Issue In Question

As the two main characters are transgender, each faced some discrimination due to their identity. We have Shuichi who was made fun of at school calling them by "tranny" as well as locking them outside of class. We also see people looking at Shuichi in a weird way in public as well as girls being surprised and angry at Shuichi trying to express their female gender identity. Shuichi is also resisting to dress up as their female-self because they feel like they could be discriminated.

We also see a scene where Saori Chiba, who initially confessed her love to Shuichi, angry and bullies Yoshino because Chiba found out Shuichi expressed their love to Yoshino, effectively breakikg Chiba's hopes of having a relationship with Shuichi. When Yoshino wore men clothing to school, the school staff questioned them and Yoshino had to clarify the situation.

From these observations, the takeaway issue is that for someone who feels like they are another gender (transgender people or any LGBTQIA+ members), it is more difficult for them to adapt to society due to discrimination and perceptions.

The Issue Addressed in Japan & Beyond

Japan is a pretty friendly nation towards queer or LGBTQIA+ members, however in certain situations or in nations worldwide, there comes to be discrimination towards and the inability to adapt to society for any gender non-conforming people.

Discrimination-wise, there are a lot of scenarios of discrimination towards queer people in schools and even online. In schools or other professional institution, there have been cases where they would ban any queer education or identities, restricting them from exercising their identity in those spaces. There are a lot of people online who are sending hate messages towards queer people.

We can see that just like in the anime, we see the same issues in our real world where queer people are often called out as "weird" and also are not respected or thought of as unusual.

My Personal Takes

While I do not identify as queer nor is part of the LGBTQIA+ community, I have personally seen a lot of acts of discrimination and bullying towards these members, however the worse cases I've seen is on social media like Instagram. Note that I am a straight person and I do not have the full picture of the LGBTQIA+ community, so please take my observations lightly. So like, there are people calling these groups, especially online in comments or posts, as "insane" and "mentally unjust", as well as hearing them talk about wanting the community to be banished.

I am not affiliated with these negative discussions but I do believe they are discriminatory and give an unfair perspective on these communities and people. Again, please do not actively criticize me in a personal level, like beyond this blog post, but you are free to drop your perspective within this blogpost. Please be positively minded.

rushilsood

Your observations about the discrimination depicted in the anime and its reflection of real-world issues are insightful. It’s important to recognize both the anime’s representation and the broader societal challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ communities. Your personal reflections on the discrimination you’ve witnessed online also add a valuable perspective to the discussion.

Wandering Son is an anime that offers a deeply moving portrayal of gender identity and personal growth. The series follows Shuichi Nitori and Yoshino Takatsuki, two middle school students navigating their experiences as they come to terms with their gender identities in a society that often struggles with acceptance.

In Japan, where traditional views on gender roles and expectations are deeply ingrained, Wandering Son provides a rare and courageous depiction of gender dysphoria and the journey towards self-acceptance. The anime’s portrayal of Shuichi and Yoshino’s struggles to align their outward appearance with their internal identities highlights the challenges faced by many in a culture where deviations from traditional gender norms are still met with resistance. This narrative is crucial in a society where gender issues are often swept under the rug, making the series a significant contribution to ongoing discussions about gender diversity and acceptance.

Globally, the themes in the anime resonate with anyone who has experienced struggles related to gender identity. The series underscores the universal difficulties of navigating one’s identity in a world that often demands conformity. It sheds light on the emotional and social challenges faced by transgender individuals, promoting empathy and understanding across different cultural contexts.

Relating this to my own experiences, Wandering Son evokes a deep sense of empathy and reflection. While my personal experiences may not mirror those of Shuichi and Yoshino, the series’ exploration of self-identity and societal expectations prompts a greater awareness of the struggles faced by others. It’s a reminder of the importance of compassion and support for those navigating their own journeys of self-discovery.

Connecting this to Judith Butler’s essay “Performative Acts and Gender Constitution,” Wandering Son vividly illustrates Butler’s concept of gender performativity. The anime portrays how gender identity is not a fixed trait but a complex interplay of personal experience and societal expectations. Shuichi and Yoshino’s journeys reflect the performative nature of gender, where identity is continuously shaped by both internal desires and external pressures. This connection enriches our understanding of how gender is experienced and expressed, reinforcing the idea that gender identity is fluid and deeply personal.

robian

Sailor Moon

Not gonna lie, I actually enjoyed watching this show more than I thought I would and I'm a guy. I went into this thinking it was going to be as boring as the gundam anime, but Sailor Moon was a pretty interesting watch. The villains kinda reminded me of team rocket and how every episode they'd show up with a different plan.

Anyways, Sailor Moon is obviously big on girl power. I bet it's not an accident that we recently in the course read about Bishoujo. Sailor Moon is probably the most iconic Bishoujo after all. I wasn't alive in the 1990’s so don't know for sure what it was like, but I bet narratives portraying strong independent women were not as common as they are today.

Japan especially is a place where people don't tend to go outside the norm. That just makes it harder for societal views to change. In Japan, although it's getting better, it's still very common for women to be solely in charge of home duties while the man goes to work. Even in Sailor Moon, the mom is depicted as a housewife while the dad seems to be a salaryman. Sailor Moon, herself, however isn't good at sticking to society's expectations. She's not good at school, she's always late, and she eats a lot. Yet, she doesn't let that stop her from saving the world.

Sailor Moon also has a lot of comments on societal problems. The enemy often makes use of these problems in order to gain energy for their lord. Some of the biggest problems they pointed out were the expectation of women to always be thin and beautiful, the problem of kids being pressured too much over studying, and consumerism. These issues have even continued to persist until today. Sailor Moon, although disguised as a children's show, made a lot of comments on society. Society is hard to change, but the easiest way to do it is through new generations. Media such as Sailor Moon paved the way for progress.

rushilsood

You made some great points about Sailor Moon! It’s interesting how you drew comparisons with Team Rocket and recognized the strong girl power theme. Your insights on societal norms in Japan and how Sailor Moon challenges them are spot on. I also appreciated your mention of the show addressing issues like beauty standards and consumerism, which are still relevant today.

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