Anime & Manga History: Artists, Studios, and Cultural Influence

Over 12 weeks, students examine the history and development of anime and manga, focusing on influential artists, studios, genres, and landmark titles that shaped the medium. Instruction uses presentations and video clips, with class discussion and analysis; several sessions include guest speakers to deepen context.

No previous knowledge or experience required, but some familiarity with and/or interest in anime or animation is recommended (having seen at least one anime film or part of a series, for example).

Materials needed:

Video clips will be shared as part of PowerPoint presentations via screen-share on Zoom and won’t require any external resource to view. For any students who might have connectivity issues related to watching videos played in Zoom, or for students who would like to view the clips beforehand, the video clips for the class will be posted in the Classroom in advance.

Students may want to have a notebook and pen/pencil to take notes in class.

For the 2 mini-assignments, students may need to do research online (searching for pictures of characters, etc.).

Although external viewings of anime series or films discussed in class will not be assigned, in order to complete the final assignment, students will need to be able to watch a recent anime title (can be TV series or movie, no earlier than 2010), via video-streaming service or other means. Students are welcome to choose a title they have already watched but are recommended to review it at least in part.