Contemporary Japanese Folktales Represented in Anime: the Paradigmatic Case of InuYasha

Abstract

Definitions of fairy and folk tales are heterogeneous, westernized, and may even contradict each other. Therefore, Japanese folktales may present certain features that differ from the literary canon. On another note, the worldwide influence of Japanese culture cannot be denied, so it is no surprise that the current Japanese soft power strategy is based on the international exhibition of a modern Japan where anime (animation) and manga (comic) play a key role. According to Amber Slaven, anime stories are highly influenced by Japanese folklore. Hence, anime spectators are in permanent touch with Japanese folklore even if they are not aware of it. In this chapter, the InuYasha animation (2000–2004)—a story that combines common narratives of anime and settings of Japanese folklore—will be analyzed by considering both conventional descriptions of folktales and specific traits of Japanese stories. The aim is to provide an insight into Japanese folktales from a contemporary perspective that helps anime viewers to identify these stories as an evolution of Japanese traditions. Ultimately, a comprehensive definition of folktales that tries to avoid Orientalist dynamics will be suggested.