Anime and manga, two pillars of Japanese pop culture, have captivated audiences worldwide. But have you ever wondered how much of what you see is influenced by mythologies not native to Japan? Let’s dive into this fascinating journey and uncover the threads of foreign Mythology on Anime and Manga!
Greek Mythology: A Rich Tapestry of Tales
Saint Seiya: Armor and Constellations
Who could forget the iconic Knights of the Zodiac in Saint Seiya? Drawing heavily from Greek mythology, the series features warriors donning Cloths inspired by the constellations and battling with the might of the Greek gods. It’s a thrilling blend of action and ancient tales, making the old myths come alive in a new world!
Norse Mythology: Of Gods and Vikings
Vinland Saga: A Viking Epic
Vinland Saga takes us back to the age of Vikings, weaving Norse myths into its narrative. Thorfinn’s journey is not just a tale of revenge but also an exploration of Norse culture and mythology. The gods, the sagas, and the runes – it’s all there, adding depth and richness to the story!
Attack on Titan: Ymir and the Giants
The giants of Attack on Titan have more in common with Norse mythology than you might think! The name Ymir, originating from the Norse giant of creation, hints at the mythological roots of the Titans. It’s a subtle nod, but it adds a layer of complexity to the series, don’t you think?
Egyptian Mythology: Pharaohs and Deities
Yu-Gi-Oh!: Dueling with the Gods
Ever played a game of Duel Monsters? Yu-Gi-Oh! not only brought us this exciting card game but also a taste of Egyptian mythology. With characters like the Egyptian God Cards and tales of ancient Pharaohs, it’s a thrilling ride through the mysteries of ancient Egypt!
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders
Stand users, anyone? In JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders, the Stands are named after Egyptian gods, like Osiris and Horus. It’s a clever incorporation of Egyptian elements, adding a mythical twist to the battles and adventures!
Celtic Mythology: Enchanting Tales from the Emerald Isle
The Ancient Magus’ Bride: Magic and Fae
Step into a world where magic is real in The Ancient Magus’ Bride. With references to Celtic mythology and the Fae, it’s an enchanting tale that blends the mystique of ancient Irish legends with the charm of modern fantasy.
Fairy Tail: Dragons and Guilds
The land of Fiore in Fairy Tail might remind you of something – yes, it’s inspired by Celtic myths! With dragons, magical guilds, and celestial spirits, it’s a world where Celtic legends come to life, adding a touch of the ancient to the new!
Hindu Mythology: A Tapestry of Epic Tales and Deities
Record of Ragnarok: The Battle of Divinities
Record of Ragnarok brings together deities from various mythologies, including the powerful Shiva from Hindu mythology. Witnessing the dance and destruction of Shiva adds a diverse and epic dimension to the battles, showcasing the richness of Hindu tales!
Naruto: Chakra and Reincarnation
Ever noticed the concept of chakra in Naruto? It’s inspired by Hinduism! The idea of reincarnation and the cycle of life and death also play a pivotal role in the series, adding depth and philosophical undertones to Naruto’s journey.
Conclusion: Mythology on Anime and Manga
Who knew that the anime and manga we adore are such a melting pot of diverse mythologies? From Greek to Norse, Egyptian to Celtic, and even Hindu – it’s a rich tapestry of tales from around the world. These stories are not just retellings; they are reimaginings, blending the ancient with the new, the mythical with the modern.
Isn’t it fascinating how these foreign myths have influenced and shaped the narratives, characters, and worlds of anime and manga? It’s a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of the creators, who weave together different cultural threads to craft stories that captivate and resonate with us all.
So, next time you watch an anime or read a manga, look out for those mythological references – you might just uncover a layer of depth and meaning you never knew existed!
