Princess Mononoke

What is the 'Shojo' and how does it often function in an anime?

The 'Shojo' is often played by a (young) female character, someone who through the works of Miyazaki establishes more than a single role but one with many characterisations. The Shojo is a symbol of the trials and tribulations that a woman during the time of the Japanese political era  for example had trouble dealing with. Cavallaro (2006) states that "Miyazaki's films hold cross-cultural and universal relevance." The equality of woman were minimal, Miyazaki addressed issues such as these capturing the real importance of how writers and directors could really change the world of anime, while at the same time make an impact on societies view of the female race.

The Shojo must go through an obstacle, a mission in which they hope to find peace for them self, if not then for her people. It begins with a decision, a choice to make the biggest move that could impact not only herself but everyone else. In Princess Mononoke 'San' fights for the land as well as her family, which are a pack of wolves. On the opposing side a village just wants to protect their own and take over more of everything with their weapons. Like the wild and untamed nature of San I guess the character could be a depiction of how womans rights were fought for but yet its still a minority due to the amount of power and authority held by politicians and most of the 'male' race.

Napier (2001) clarifies that the Shojo is identified as an innocent, pure, attractive, feminine type, and even though San maybe an uncontrollable girl she creates the hero which is also common for a shojo to be strong willed and powerful, not to be mention she is pretty. In Spirited Away (2001) Chihiro (Sen) is the perfect example of what a Shojo should be. Firstly she is young, she is very pure as she helps and serves many demons/ spirits even though her parents have been taken away as well as her name. She too fights, for the freedom of her parents she must undergo the challenge of defeating the evil sorcerer  and regain her identity back.

In conclusion the Shojo is what gives the anime a purpose, a storyline or plot line. It's the Shojo that can possibly create and yet end the conflict between rivalries in Miyazaki's films. It is often them whom we seek victory and peace from. Like San the Shojo's are the ones who fight, the hero whom succeeds in changing things. The redeemer.


references:

Cavallaro, D. (2006). Introduction. In The Anime Art of Hayao Miyazaki (pp.5-13). London: McFarland & Company.