The Power of Girls’ Comics: What can Shojo Manga Tell You?
Somebody passed this on to me. Masami Toku, from the University of California, Chico, is going to give a talk this afternoon (2pm, UBC Buchanan Building, Room B323). I’m not sure what to expect as a scientist type, but I think I’m going to try and check it out.
“Shojo Manga “Girl Power” Manga (Japanese comics) has played an important role in Japanese society. Not just tales of love, these illustrated stories empower the girls of Japan and aid them in traversing the intricate societal roles and expectations females face in Japan. Blending ink and storytelling, the Manga can simultaneously be viewed as entertainment, art and a reflective study in pop culture. This presentation on Manga focuses on those published specifically for Shojo (young girls) and the author’s world-touring exhibit featuring a variety of posters, prints and books spanning over 60 years of art and style. While the early Shojo Manga remains timeless in its unique style and storytelling, it is the contemporary Manga and artwork that has transcended borders and has received great interest throughout the world. This presentation will look at the role Shojo Manga has played and continues to play in Japanese society and through reflection of 60 years of artwork, observing how the lives of young girls and women have changed in Japan since the post-war era through today. “Girl Power!” focuses on a period of Japanese history that has seen women’s position in society undergo drastic changes, and that path is documented through Shojo Manga.”
