ENGL 246 - Trauma and Power in Hayao Miyazakis Film

3 Hour(s)

Different kinds of trauma, historical, socio-cultural, environmental, emotional and physical, inform films of the Japanese animation master Hayao Miyazaki. His distinctive art of anime and storytelling aesthetic have created what Susan Napier, Japanese culture and animation scholar, calls “Miyazaki World” where the audiences are transported to a thirtieth-century toxic jungle (Nausicaä), a bathhouse for tired gods (Spirited Away), or meet a red-haired fish girl (Ponyo), a furry woodland spirit (My Neighbor Totoro), or a modern witch (Kiki’s Delivery Service). Through close analysis of his films, their art of animation and storytelling, we will explore how Miyazaki creates a unique form of fantasy that can heal, restore, and help us face mortality and destruction. Along with films, major sources of inspiration from the Japanese and European literature, myth, art and history will be examined to contextualize the staying power of Miyazaki’s works.

General Education Requirements: Humanities; Gender Inquiry; Intercultural Knowledge and Engagement; Writing Intensive