Princess Mononoke (1997)

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We will screen the anime film Princess Mononoke. As you watch, take note of how the film reflects the following themes and tropes/motifs:
  • Environmentalism (a brief history of environmentalism)
  • Japanese culture (particularly Shinto & Buddhism)
  • Duality: life/death; nature/human civilization; animal/human,
  • Technology, prosperity & wealth
  • Disease/Curses v. health
  • Atonement (reparation for sin; reconciliation through a savior)
  • Gods/divinity/fate
  • Ethics
Choose 1 theme to write about, using the film as a source for your exploration/commentary.

HOMEWORK: If you did not yet read the two short stories by Akutagawa, please do so. Gather your ideas from the theme you chose above and be prepared to write about it next class.

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