Searching for Freedom: An Investigation of Form in Japanese Storytelling and Animation

This project investigated characteristics of storytelling within Japanese animation known as anime. Through the use of textual analysis and historical research methods, I explored the story element of theme and it’s relation to character development and narrative structure within the anime and manga series, Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin). I identified two story themes: 1) The World’s Cruelty, Oppression of man and 2) Searching & Fighting for freedom against the cruel world—and a strong influence of folklore and Eastern and Western art that attribute to the story structure and aesthetic elements of the anime story. These findings informed my creative activity where I completed a film scenario, mood board, and storyboard to communicate the visual aesthetic of the final film production. This project will result in a better understanding of the traditions of Japanese storytelling within anime and strengthen my own creative practice