Introduction 1.1 Rationale
Aims of the study
This study investigates the impact of Japanese manga and anime on primary school students in Hai Phong city, seeking to enhance their positive effects while mitigating any negative influences.
Two research questions were addressed as follow:
What are the influences of Japanese manga and anime on primary schoolers in Hai Phong city?
What are the solutions to Japanese manga and anime’s impact on primary schoolers in Hai Phong city?
Methods of the study
In order to complete this study, the following methods were employed:
The study utilized both analytic and synthetic methods to comprehensively review various theories from credible sources, establishing a robust framework for data analysis.
Second, survey methods were used to gather data of the primary schoolers to have an overview and the most accurate view of the current situation
Third, interview methods were used to add several information from schoolers’ parents and bosses of book stores.
Scope of the study
The impact of Japanese manga and anime on primary school students is significant; however, due to the extensive scope of this influence, my research focuses specifically on Dong Hai Primary School in Hai Phong city, where I previously studied.
Design of the study
This study is composed of three main parts:
Part 1 is the introduction which consists of rationale, aims, study methods, the scope and design of the study
Part 2 is the development- the main part of this paper which is divided into four chapters :
- Chapter one is theoretical background of Japanese manga and anime
- Chapter two shows detailed explanation of the methodology
- Chapter three indicates real situation and the influence of Japanese manga and anime on primary schoolers in Hai Phong city
- Chapter four is comments and solutions to the impact of Japanese manga and anime on primary schoolers in Hai Phong city
Part 3 is the conclusion which summarizes what was given in previous parts.
Development
1.1.1 General theoretic issues about manga and anime
Manga refers to comics or graphic novels that originate from Japan or are produced by creators using the Japanese language, adhering to a distinctive style that emerged in the late 19th century This art form has a rich and intricate history rooted in earlier Japanese artistic traditions.
The term “manga” in Japan is a word used to refer to both comics and cartooning “Manga” as a term used outside Japan refers to comics originally published in Japan
Manga, a term derived from Japanese meaning "flowing words" or "undisciplined words," is an ancient art form that has served as a source of entertainment for centuries Essentially, it refers to Japanese comic books that can be readily translated into English.
And Cataphract (2004) is thought that “Manga is to Anime what Comics is to Cartoons”
Anime is hand-drawn and computer animation originating from or associated with Japan
Anime, a term derived from Japanese that encompasses all forms of animated media, is often understood outside Japan as animation specifically from Japan, characterized by colorful graphics, vibrant characters, and fantastical themes This culturally nuanced definition may allow for the inclusion of anime produced in other countries, yet many in the West tend to view it strictly as a Japanese product Some scholars argue that defining anime as inherently Japanese may reflect a contemporary form of orientalism.
Anime refers to the animation and cartoons produced in Japan, as defined by Brad Stephenson (2019) In English conversations, the term is commonly used to describe Japanese animated series or films, highlighting its distinct cultural origin.
Literature Review
Overview of Japanese manga and anime
1.1.1 General theoretic issues about manga and anime
Manga, as defined by Wikipedia, refers to comics or graphic novels originating from Japan or produced by creators in the Japanese language, following a distinctive style that emerged in the late 19th century This art form has a rich and intricate history rooted in earlier Japanese artistic traditions.
The term “manga” in Japan is a word used to refer to both comics and cartooning “Manga” as a term used outside Japan refers to comics originally published in Japan
Manga, derived from the Japanese term meaning "flowing words" or "undisciplined words," is an ancient art form that has served as a source of entertainment for centuries Essentially, it refers to Japanese comic books that can be readily translated into English.
And Cataphract (2004) is thought that “Manga is to Anime what Comics is to Cartoons”
Anime is hand-drawn and computer animation originating from or associated with Japan
Anime, derived from the Japanese term for animation, encompasses all forms of animated media; however, outside Japan, it specifically refers to Japanese animation known for its colorful graphics, vibrant characters, and fantastical themes While some Westerners limit the definition of anime to Japanese productions, this perspective may overlook the potential for anime-like styles emerging from other cultures Scholars argue that defining anime as exclusively Japanese could reflect a modern form of orientalism.
Anime, as defined by Brad Stephenson (2019), refers to the style of animation produced in Japan, commonly recognized by audiences outside the country In English discussions, the term is synonymous with Japanese animated series or films, highlighting its unique cultural significance and artistic style.
1.1.1.2 Trait and roles of Japanese manga and anime
Manga has a rich history that dates back to early Japan, where it originated as simple comic strips, captivating audiences with its entertainment value and significance in Japanese art By the 6th and 7th centuries, monks created parchment rolls adorned with symbolic imagery and animal characters, laying the groundwork for what would evolve into manga Notably, the Choju-jinbutsu-giga paintings showcased the delightful interplay between animals and humans, marking an early precursor to the art form The Edo Period (1603-1867) further developed the concept of manga through works like Toba Ehon, although the term "manga" itself was first coined in 1798 to describe the picture book Shiji no Yukikai.
The title "Four Seasons," originally by Santou Kyouden in 1814, reemerged in Aikawa Mina's "Manga hyakujo" and the renowned "Hokusai Manga," featuring illustrations by the celebrated ukiyo-e artist Hokusai.
Manga, a term popularized by the artist Hokusai, represents a unique painting philosophy that diverged from traditional art of his time Known for his rebellious spirit, Hokusai frequently challenged his teachers and their techniques Throughout his career, he produced approximately 30,000 works, including various anthologies and published books, showcasing his innovative approach to art.
Hokusai redefined the concept of "manga," which translates to "bizarre painting," by emphasizing a spontaneous and improvisational approach to art rather than focusing solely on intricate storytelling or meticulous detail His technique often resulted in landscape paintings that, while appearing natural, contained unique elements that differentiated them from traditional art forms, where artists had a clear vision before creating This natural, free-flowing style, whether intentional or not, laid the groundwork for the diverse narratives and artistic expressions seen in contemporary manga Although Hokusai's innovative approach marked a significant evolution in painting, it also paved the way for the future of manga artists and their varied storylines.
“manga” stories had not appeared until the very beginning 20 th century
As Japan entered the 20th century, its diplomacy expanded globally, leading to the introduction of "short comic strips," which became a catalyst for the rise of manga in the Japanese publishing market This era's manga, known as Ponchi-e, featured magazines filled with caricatures spanning 1-4 pages, and Japan began employing foreign artists to instruct local students on techniques related to lines, colors, and shapes.
During the war, Japanese comics and caricatures served multiple purposes, providing humor and entertainment while also adapting Western narratives Additionally, they were utilized for propaganda and satire to bolster national interests and uplift soldiers' morale However, following significant defeats by the Allies at the conclusion of World War II, the role of these comics evolved.
II, many Japanese comics were subject to heavy censorship by the victors, and the development of what would become "manga "Japan seems to be postponed indefinitely
After the war, Osamu Tezuka emerged as a pivotal figure in revitalizing the manga art scene, introducing a new genre that blended Disney's animation style with German and French cinematic techniques His innovative approach established the first true model of manga, laying the foundation for an industry that remains integral to modern Japanese culture.
Japanese animation, with its roots dating back to 1917, has seen consistent growth in production over the years The distinctive anime art style, popularized by Osamu Tezuka in the 1960s, gained international recognition by the late twentieth century, cultivating a vast audience both domestically and globally Anime is available through various channels, including theatrical releases, television broadcasts, home media, and online platforms, and it encompasses a wide range of genres to cater to both broad and niche audiences.
Anime is a unique art form that has evolved through various production techniques in response to new technologies It merges graphic art, characterization, and cinematography, prioritizing realistic settings and innovative camera effects like panning and zooming over mere movement animation This hand-drawn medium creates a distinct fictional realm, offering audiences an easy escape into imaginative worlds Additionally, anime showcases diverse art styles, with characters often featuring exaggerated or realistic proportions, particularly in their expressive eyes.
Japanese anime and comics serve as a gateway for the younger generation to explore and understand Japanese culture, while also influencing their lifestyle in a distinctly Japanese way.
Generic manga and anime of Japanese
1.2.1 Japanese manga and anime industry
According to Hays (2009), the manga industry in Japan represents a significant segment of the book and magazine market, accounting for one-third of total sales, which amounts to approximately $10 billion annually With around two billion manga sold each year, they make up 40 percent of all printed materials in Japan Successful manga titles often transition into animated television shows or films, gaining immense popularity domestically and attracting a growing fanbase in the United States and Europe Additionally, this thriving industry extends to video games, trading cards, and character merchandise, with the character goods market alone valued at $3.5 billion.
In 2007, the sale of manga books and magazines stood at around ¥470 billion.Most years about 20 to 30 percent of television dramas are derived from manga
According to a research of Hiromichi Masuda: “The market recorded 108.0% growth and the highest sales in 2017, finally crossing the 2 trillion yen mark driven by overseas sales”.
The Japanese animation market experienced a remarkable recovery after hitting a low in 2009, achieving growth for seven consecutive years and recording its highest sales for the fourth straight year, surpassing two trillion yen with a year-on-year increase of 110% While videogram sales plummeted by 84.9%, and significant declines were noted in TV (98.8%), merchandising (97.1%), and pachinko (95.8%), sectors such as movies (141.4%), music (110.5%), internet distribution (109.4%), live entertainment (129.5%), and overseas markets (131.6%) saw substantial growth.
The blockbuster film "Your Name" significantly boosted sales in the Japanese animation market, particularly highlighting the success of overseas sales Notably, 2017 marked a pivotal year, as it was the first time the Japanese animation market surpassed previous sales records.
(From a report about anime industry data in 2018)
The market achieved sales of 2 trillion 152.7 billion yen, marking eight consecutive years of growth and five years of record-breaking highs Key genres such as TV (100.9%), Internet Distribution (113%), and Live Entertainment (116%) saw expansion, while five genres, including Movies (61.7%) and Music (91.6%), experienced declines Notably, overseas sales surged by 129.6%, compensating for the downturn in the other genres Over the past decade, TV has grown by 115.7%, peaking in 2015, while Internet Distribution has dramatically increased by 551.0% Although Merchandising (87.6%) has gradually declined since its 2014 peak, it could have seen greater growth if digital merchandise had been included in the survey Music (99.2%) has remained steady since its peak in 2009 Meanwhile, overseas sales have rebounded since 2015, becoming the largest genre today, while Pachinko (175.9%) and Live Entertainment (251%) continue to show significant growth as newer genres.
1.2.2 The influence of Japanese manga and anime on international market
By 2007, manga had significantly impacted international comics, reflecting a two-decade evolution in its influence This influence pertains to both the effects on global comic markets and the aesthetic changes observed among comic artists worldwide.
Manga traditionally follows a top-to-bottom and right-to-left reading format While some publishers maintain this original layout in translated versions, others opt to mirror the pages horizontally, altering the reading direction to the more familiar left-to-right format for Western audiences This adaptation aims to prevent confusion among readers accustomed to traditional comics.
Flipping comic artwork can disrupt the original intent of the creator, as it alters text and visuals in ways that confuse readers For instance, when a shirt labeled "MAY" is flipped, it becomes "YAM," complicating the reading experience This alteration can lead to mismatches between text and images, such as a character referencing something on their left while pointing right Additionally, flipping can make right-handed characters appear left-handed and create inconsistencies with familiar objects, like a car with reversed pedals While these issues can be addressed with thoughtful adaptations, the primary concern remains the unnatural reading flow that results from flipping without proper consideration.
Manga has significantly influenced European cartooning, particularly in France and Italy, since the 1970s when broadcast anime opened the market French art has a long history of borrowing from Japan, known as Japonism, and has developed its own tradition of bande dessinée Since the mid-1990s, manga has gained immense popularity in France, accounting for approximately one-third of comic sales since 2004 In 2006, manga sales in France and Germany reached $212.6 million, with France alone representing about 50% of this market.
The European manga market is the second largest globally, following Japan In 2013, France had 41 manga publishers, with manga and other Asian comics accounting for approximately 40% of new comic releases, surpassing Franco-Belgian comics for the first time Key European publishers translating manga into French include Asuka, Casterman, Glénat, Kana, and Pika Édition, with translations also available in Dutch, German, Italian, and other languages Notably, in 2007, manga constituted about 70% of all comics sold in Germany In the UK, manga publishers such as Gollancz and Titan Books thrive, alongside a strong marketing presence from US publishers like Random House's Tanoshimi line.
Manga gradually entered the U.S market, initially linked to anime, which was more accessible to fans in the 1970s and early 1980s College-age enthusiasts found it easier to obtain and share anime on videotapes than to translate and distribute manga One of the first English-translated manga was Keiji Nakazawa's Barefoot Gen, an autobiographical account of the Hiroshima bombing, released by Leonard Rifas and Educomics between 1980 and 1982 The translation of manga increased significantly from the mid-1980s to the 1990s, paving the way for broader recognition in the U.S.
In the late 1980s, the American comic scene saw a surge in Japanese manga adaptations, beginning with titles like Lone Wolf and Cub and Kamui in 1987 from First Comics and Viz Media-Eclipse Comics This trend continued with notable releases such as Akira from Marvel Comics' Epic imprint and Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind from Viz Media in 1988, along with Appleseed from Eclipse Comics The momentum carried into the 1990s with Iczer-1 and Ippongi Bang's F-111 Bandit from Antarctic Press, showcasing the growing popularity of manga in the U.S comic market.
In the 1980s to mid-1990s, Japanese animation, exemplified by titles like Akira, Dragon Ball, Neon Genesis Evangelion, and Pokémon, significantly influenced fan engagement and the market, overshadowing manga A pivotal change occurred with the establishment of Studio Proteus by translator-entrepreneur Toren Smith in 1986, which facilitated the translation of notable Japanese manga such as Masamune Shirow's Appleseed and Kōsuke Fujishima's Oh My Goddess! for publishers like Dark Horse and Eros Comix, streamlining the process for these companies Concurrently, the Japanese publisher Shogakukan launched a U.S initiative through its subsidiary Viz, allowing direct access to Shogakukan's extensive catalogue and translation expertise.
In the mid-1990s, Japanese publishers sought to enter the U.S market due to stagnation in domestic manga sales The popularity of anime and manga, particularly Masamune Shirow's Ghost in the Shell, sparked a resurgence in the U.S manga scene Sailor Moon emerged as a significant success during this time, with its manga being exported to over 23 countries, including China, Brazil, and North America by 1998 In 1997, Mixx Entertainment began publishing Sailor Moon along with other titles like CLAMP's Magic Knight Rayearth and Hitoshi Iwaaki's Parasyte in its magazine MixxZine, which was renamed Tokyopop in 1999 and continued until 2011 Tokyopop, like Viz, aggressively marketed manga to both young male and female audiences, helping to expand the reach of the genre in the U.S.
In recent years, the popularity of manga has surged, with new publishers entering the market and established ones expanding their catalogs The Pokémon manga Electric Tale of Pikachu #1 achieved remarkable success, selling over one million copies in the U.S and becoming the best-selling single comic book since 1993 By 2008, the manga market in the U.S and Canada generated $175 million annually, attracting attention from mainstream media outlets like The New York Times and Time magazine As of 2017, Viz Media emerged as the largest publisher of graphic novels and comic books in the U.S., holding a 23% market share Manga sales are growing rapidly, outpacing the overall comic book market, which saw only a 5% increase Additionally, manga readers tend to be younger and more diverse, with 76% under 30 years old and a 16% higher female readership compared to other comic book genres.
Besides, The Japanese animation on international market is undeniable as seen in the figure below
The comparison of market sizes reveals that since 2015, the overseas market has experienced significant growth, nearly surpassing the domestic market, which peaked in 2014 and has since declined for three consecutive years due to downturns in major genres like Merchandising and Pachinko While including sales from application games and other digital merchandise could indicate an increase in the domestic market, the current data highlights Japan's heavy reliance on overseas sales Although the robust growth in the overseas market compensates for the domestic decline, it raises concerns about Japan's dependence on international markets.
Real situation of publishing, consuming Japanese manga and watching
watching anime on the internet in Hai Phong
1.3.1 Real situation of publishing and consuming Japanese manga in HP
In today's digital age, Vietnam has embraced 4.0 technology, allowing easy access to manga through electronic devices Despite this technological advancement, the printed manga market remains vibrant and active According to Mrs Men, the owner of a manga store, new manga is imported to Hai Phong every Tuesday, highlighting the continued demand for physical copies.
Friday With a large fan base of a young section, her store sells about 350 kinds of story books every week”
1.3.2 Real situation of watching anime on the internet in HP
The GDP growth in Hai Phong has led to increased ownership of computers, iPads, and mobile phones among residents Coupled with advancements in technology that provide constant internet connectivity, people can now enjoy anime at their convenience As a result, anime websites have seen a significant surge in viewership, highlighting the popularity and strong appeal of Japanese anime among the youth in Hai Phong.
Methodology
Data collection and analysis
In total of 200 questionnaires, I have obtained the following results:
Data analysis reveals that 89% of children enjoy manga and anime, demonstrating significant enthusiasm for these genres Early exposure to manga and anime can greatly influence children's development, although the extent of this impact varies among individuals.
Figure 3: The popularity of Japanese manga and anime
Findings and discussion
Primary schoolers’s popularity of reading manga and watching anime
In total of 200 questionnaires, I have obtained the following results:
Data analysis reveals that 89% of children enjoy manga and anime, demonstrating significant enthusiasm for these genres However, early exposure to manga and anime can have lasting impacts on children, with the extent of this influence varying based on individual differences.
Figure 3: The popularity of Japanese manga and anime
Primary schoolers’s frequency of reading manga and watching anime
Figure 4: The frequency of reading manga and watching anime
Approximately 66% of children engage in reading manga and watching anime during their free time, while 21% do so multiple times a week Additionally, 8% participate on weekends and 6% once a week This trend highlights that the majority of children prefer to consume manga and anime in their leisure hours, often making it challenging for parents to monitor their activities effectively.
In addition, reading manga and watching anime too much can make their eyes become tiring and make children inactive.
Types of reading manga and watching anime
Figure 5: Types of manga and anime the children likes
Adventure manga and anime are the most popular among children, comprising 41% of their interests, followed by horror at 35% Action and detective genres each attract 29% of young viewers These genres can have a significant impact on children's psychology and awareness, often featuring violent themes such as fighting, murder, and supernatural elements, which may negatively influence them without proper parental guidance In contrast, educational and entertaining genres like Comedy (19%), Historical (16%), Science Fiction and Fantasy (19%), and Sports and Games (16%) are less favored but should be encouraged by parents for their potential to provide knowledge and entertainment Historical manga and anime, in particular, can spark children's interest in history Additionally, genres like Romance (7%) and Others (11%) are intended for ages 16 and up, and parents should restrict access to these for younger audiences.
Ways of reading manga and watching anime
Figure 6: Ways of reading manga and watching anime
The bar chart indicates that mobile devices are the predominant means for children to read manga and watch anime, accounting for 47% This trend highlights the concerning issue of parents allowing unrestricted mobile phone use, which can be detrimental to children's well-being Following mobile usage, computers are the second most popular choice at 23%, while iPads account for 19% These statistics reveal that children have easy access to advanced technology Notably, television is the least preferred option for consuming manga and anime, representing only 2% To better manage their children's media consumption, parents should encourage viewing on TV and reading from paper, which can also shield them from the potential negative influences of manga and anime.
Locations for reading manga and watching anime
Figure 7: Locations for reading manga and watching anime
The chart illustrate the ideal places for children to read manga and watch anime
Home is the preferred location for enjoying manga and anime, with 72% of children favoring it, followed by bookstores at 40%, other locations at 25%, and libraries at just 10% The rise of digital technology has enabled easy access to manga and anime from home, leading to a decline in library popularity among children Bookstores remain popular as they provide opportunities to read new manga, while coffee shops and internet cafes are also common spots for kids to indulge in these activities.
Students’ feelings about read manga and watch anime
Figure 8: Students’s feelings about the influence of manga and anime
The chart indicates that 90% of children exhibit sexual awareness, followed by 56% showing personality development, 47% engaged in aesthetic and artistic pursuits, and 35% involved in languages, actions, and hobbies Most children recognize the differences between boys and girls, enabling them to identify inappropriate behavior from strangers and report it to their parents Additionally, manga and anime can contribute positively to children's understanding of behavior and a strong lifestyle; however, some content may lead to increased violence and unruliness among children.
Manga and anime, originating from Japan, offer an engaging way for children to immerse themselves in the Japanese language By practicing listening, speaking, and reflecting on Japanese vocabulary, kids can enhance their language skills while learning valuable social etiquette These forms of entertainment not only enrich vocabulary but also promote a cultural and ethical lifestyle, fostering politeness and respect in young learners.
Japanese manga and anime significantly influence children's behavior, instilling virtues such as kindness and a strong work ethic These mediums teach children to be mindful of their surroundings and daily responsibilities, making them effective tools for cognitive education from an early age.
Manga and anime significantly influence children's interests, much like online games, by immersing them in fantasy worlds This immersion can lead to a preference for fictional experiences over real-life interactions, resulting in social withdrawal A notable example is the trend among many young Japanese who isolate themselves in their rooms, leading to broader societal impacts, including economic downturns.
Manga and anime can significantly enhance children's artistic skills, particularly in painting Many enthusiasts of these art forms often engage in painting as a hobby By providing supportive environments, parents can nurture their children's artistic abilities from an early age, making it a valuable opportunity for their development.
Comments and solutions to the impact of Japanese manga and
The impacts of Japanese manga and anime on primary schoolers in HP
First of all, it is undeniable that manga has a significant influence on the formation of the personality of children
Manga and anime play a significant role in entertainment, particularly for children in Hai Phong who face stressful academic pressures The comic elements in these mediums provide a refreshing escape, allowing kids to forget their fatigue after school and bond over shared laughter about characters in the stories Beyond entertainment, manga and anime also offer positive psychological benefits, enhancing social connections and emotional well-being.
They contribute to establish civilized behavior and ethical behavior for children
Manga and anime frequently convey profound educational messages through gentle storytelling A prime example is the beloved series Doraemon, which resonates with children in urban areas by promoting the values of friendship and unity The interactions among characters like Nobita, Suneo, and Chaien emphasize the importance of respecting elders and being mindful of environmental protection.
Nguyen Ngoc Minh Chau, a primary school student, emphasizes the valuable lessons learned from characters like Doremon, Conan, and Yugi These stories teach important values such as kindness, altruism, independence, and the importance of helping friends Minh Chau believes that true friendship and love are built on mutual support during tough times, trust, and sharing both joys and sorrows, fostering an open and harmonious life.
Aesthetic education plays a crucial role in developing children's artistic tastes and enhancing their ability to appreciate and create beauty in both life and art Japanese manga and anime have significantly influenced young minds, introducing them to captivating characters and stunning landscapes, from the iconic cherry blossoms to the majestic samurai These elements not only represent beauty but also resonate deeply within children's hearts and minds As children engage with comics, they experience visual storytelling that effectively nurtures their aesthetic sensibilities As noted by Danh Hai, understanding the importance of personal style over fleeting trends is essential for cultivating individuality and intelligence in young girls.
Sexual education is a recurring theme in manga and anime, addressing early emotions and the secret experiences of boys and girls as they reach puberty These narratives often capture the innocent desires and strategies of young characters, such as Nobita, Suneo, and Chaien, as they seek the affection of their academically talented crush, Xuka.
Children can enhance their knowledge and boost their creativity through engaging resources like the "Doraemon book - maths cube." This captivating pocketbook allows children to learn while having fun, promoting creativity through activities such as jigsaw puzzles and hands-on tasks like helping with carpentry and making toys These activities not only entertain but also challenge their thinking skills, enabling them to discover effective methods for quick and easy calculations that can be applied in school.
Japanese manga and anime offer valuable insights into nature and the human spirit, as many fans express Through stories like "Queen of Egypt," readers discover the wonders of the Nile and ancient temples, while "Doraemon" introduces them to iconic landscapes such as Mount Fuji and the Hawaiian Sea.
Through the episode "Dinosaur" in the Doraemon series, even a third-grade child can easily understand the types, birth, and extinction of dinosaurs millions of years ago Additionally, the series delves into topics such as stars and the laws of the universe, blending mysticism with logical relationships, which encourages young children's critical thinking and curiosity.
The manga's engaging plot and attractive subject matter, combined with its simple yet flexible drawing style, effectively convey the story while highlighting key elements This unique artistic approach captivates students, sparking their imagination and encouraging exploration Through manga, children not only appreciate beauty but also transform their perspective on art With uncomplicated strokes reminiscent of manga characters, they learn to express their thoughts creatively Furthermore, manga serves as a tool for understanding geometry and math, helping students achieve more accurate image scaling and balance.
It is worth noting that manga and anime not only affects children's cultural activities, but also the painting style for children in Vietnam, including Hai Phong
Unlike reading, the influence of Japanese manga on Vietnam's art of drawing comics through two distinct trends: active and non-active reception
The phenomenon of inactive reception among amateur painters, particularly children interested in manga and possessing some artistic talent, is notable in Vietnam The three leading comic magazines—Vietnamese Prodigy Fanclub, M’heaven, and Young Comics—boast a combined monthly circulation of nearly 50,000 copies, primarily featuring works from the 8X (1980) and 9X (1990) generations Critics argue that the comics in these publications heavily reflect Japanese styles This influence is evident in the entrance exams for Yet Kieu Fine Arts University, where faculty members have expressed concerns that today's students depict their family members through the lens of Japanese comic characters, lacking the roundness and completeness seen in previous generations' artwork.
+ Active reception is shown in publishers such as Kim Dong Publishing House, Educational Publishing House, comic book bookstores, such as Phan Thi
Kim Dong Publishing House has successfully tapped into the growing appeal of manga-style comics for children, launching annual campaigns that attract talented artists nationwide Since the inaugural competition in 1999, the publisher has established a clear vision for children's comics, emphasizing unique layouts and emotionally engaging visual storytelling This has led to the emergence of works that resonate with young readers, offering rich information and captivating narratives Notable examples include "Ti and Teo Adventure," created by artist Dao Hai, which combines humor and relatable school experiences, allowing readers to reconnect with the joys of childhood The series features charming illustrations and educational content that surprises and delights, making it a favorite among young audiences.
The "Vietnamese Prodigy" series, created by Young Publishing House and Phan Thi, represents a significant milestone in Vietnam's manga comic landscape as it employs Japanese comic drawing techniques Iconic characters like Ty, Ox, and Tiger have resonated deeply with readers, transcending comic pages to become cultural symbols, featured on merchandise such as T-shirts This vibrant character portrayal has enabled authors to explore historical themes in a way that intertwines storytelling with visual artistry, allowing readers to experience history as if watching a film Thus, comic books emerge as a vital cultural medium for contemporary audiences in the audiovisual age.
Phan Thi and his team have partnered with Kim Dong Publishing House to create a 14-volume historical comic series that reinterprets the Hung Vuong era through the legends of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh, despite the existence of numerous previous comic adaptations of this myth.
Faced with the passion of young people, many universities have opened a new major: Animation - Manga- Digital for young people who are passionate about creating comics
As such, manga style has had a great influence, not only on the art of painting in Chinese and Korean comics, but also in Vietnam
Besides, primary schoolers in Hai Phong also received numerous benefits from Japanese manga and anime as well as historical manga of Viet Nam
While Japanese comics offer positive experiences, they also negatively impact teenagers and children Surveys of parents and teachers reveal concerns about the influence of manga on language use, with many children adopting shortened phrases and mimicking the speech patterns of characters, such as martial artists and detectives This includes replacing traditional terms like "children" or "grandchildren" with "I" when speaking to adults or peers For instance, phrases like "I will go now" or "I will help you" are common Such shifts in communication not only affect verbal interactions but also impair writing skills and literary thinking, leading parents to believe that manga has undermined their children's literary development.
The manga prominently features detective themes, action figures, and dynamic character movements, enriched by onomatopoeic expressions like "boom," "bup," and "flap," which enhance the depiction of intense scenes This expressive style often leads to a vivid portrayal of conflict, as seen in a case where a student, reprimanded by a teacher, illustrated a dagger-wielding girl piercing her heart, accompanied by hateful words, reflecting the emotional turmoil and artistic expression found in manga.
Solutions to the impact of Japanese manga and anime on primary
Local authorities must implement age verification measures for accessing manga and anime sites that contain content unsuitable for children Additionally, it is essential for retailers to refrain from selling manga and anime that feature violence or pornography to minors.
At the same time, reviewing and preventing products with inappropriate content including gun items, plastic swords should be strictly superivised
4.2.2 Solutions to publishers and manufacturers
Publishers and manufacturers must include clear warnings for parents on the outside of manga and CD covers to help them identify appropriate content This labeling not only aids distributors and retailers in classifying products by audience and age but also contributes to more effective management of black cultural products in the marketplace.
Parents should familiarize themselves with the fundamentals of manga and anime to effectively guide their children towards age-appropriate films and comics By selecting suitable films, they can ensure a positive viewing experience Additionally, managing both the content and viewing time is essential before introducing these media to their children.
Elementary students should avoid watching cultural products that feature violence, pornography, or horror If you're unsure about which films are appropriate, it's important to consult your parents before viewing This ensures that you protect yourself from harmful content.
Conclusion 1 Summary
Limitations
Although this research was carefully prepared, I am still aware of its limitations and shortcomings
First of all, I haven't analyzed in depth the influence of manga and anime on each category individually
Besides, I also haven't taken many measures to minimize the negative influence of manga and anime.
Recommendations for further study
The study faced limitations, particularly in data collection, as the exercises were only conducted with a small group of primary school students due to time and financial constraints To enhance future research, it is suggested that larger and more diverse populations be included in subsequent studies.
The reliability and accuracy of collected data were significantly impacted, suggesting that future studies should target students in secondary schools, high schools, or universities Additionally, this minor thesis primarily focuses on understanding the influence of manga and anime while proposing potential solutions Consequently, upcoming research could explore and address the effects of these mediums on different age groups.
Despite the identified shortcomings, this study aims to significantly mitigate the negative impacts of manga and anime on primary school children in Hai Phong.
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Berkeley, California: Stone Bridge Press
9 Simon, B (2003) Manga Retrieved October 2 nd 2003 from https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=manga
APPENDIX Questionnaire about the influence of Japanese manga and anime
Bảng câu hỏi vềảnh hưởng của manga và anime Nhật
This questionnaire aims to explore the impact of Japanese manga and anime on Dong Hai primary school students Your honest responses to the following questions are greatly appreciated, as all information will remain confidential and solely used for research purposes Your participation is vital for my graduation, and I sincerely thank you for your support.
Bảng câu hỏi này nhằm điều tra ảnh hưởng của truyện tranh và phim hoạt hình Nhật Bản đối với học sinh tiểu học Đông Hải Tôi mong các em dành thời gian trả lời các câu hỏi dưới đây một cách trung thực Tất cả thông tin sẽ được giữ bí mật và chỉ sử dụng cho mục đích nghiên cứu Sự giúp đỡ của các em rất quan trọng cho việc hoàn thành khóa luận tốt nghiệp của tôi Cảm ơn các em rất nhiều.
Gender (Giới tính): Male (Nam) Female (Nữ)
Class (Lớp): Lớp 3 Lớp 4 Lớp 5
Your age (Tuổi của em):
Here are some prepared questions for you to choose from Please select your answers by circling the options provided.
1 Do you like reading Japanese manga and anime? (Các em có thích đọc truyện tranh và xem phim hoạt hình Nhật Bản không?)
2 How often do you read manga and watch Japanese anime? (Các em có thường xuyên đọc truyện, xem phim hoạt hình Nhật Bản không?)
A Once of week (1 lần 1 tuần)
B Many times of week (Nhiều lần 1 tuần)
C Saturday and Sunday (Thứ 7 và chủ nhật)
D Free time (Lúc rảnh rỗi)
3 What kind of Japanese manga and anime do you like? You can choose multiple answers (Các em thích thể loại truyện và phim nào? Các em có thể chọn nhiều phương án)
H Science fiction and fantasy (Khoa học viễn tưởng và giả tưởng)
I Sports and games (Thể thao và trò chơi)
4 In what ways do you read manga and watch anime? (Các em đọc truyện và xem phim bằng cái gì?
A Phone (Điện thoại di động)
D Paper manga, CD (Truyện giấy, đĩa)
5 Where do you often read manga and watch anime? (Các em thường đọc truyện và xem phim ở đâu?)
B In the library (Ở thư viện)
C In the book store (Ở hiệu sách)