The Cambridge Companion to Manga and Anime

An introduction to manga and anime as distinct but interrelated transcultural media forms.

This Companion takes a unique approach, exploring manga and anime as two distinct but interrelated forms. Firmly based in Japanese sources, it offers a lively and accessible introduction, exploring the local contexts of production and reception in Japan, as well as the global influence and impact of these versatile media.In recent years, manga and anime have attracted increasing scholarly interest beyond the realm of Japanese studies. This Companion takes a unique approach, committed to exploring both the similarities and differences between these two distinct but interrelated media forms. Firmly based in Japanese sources, this volume offers a lively and accessible introduction, exploring the local contexts of manga and anime production, distribution, and reception in Japan, as well as the global influence and impact of these versatile media. Chapters explore common characteristics such as visuals, voice, serial narrative and characters, whilst also highlighting distinct challenges and histories. The volume provides both a basis for further research in this burgeoning field and a source of inspiration for those new to the topic.