The Evolution of Manga and Anime: From Origins to Modern Giants

Manga and anime have become integral parts of popular culture around the world. Although they are often discussed together, their histories are distinct and rich in their own right. This article explores the origins of manga and anime, delving into when the first manga and anime were created and how history has shaped these beloved mediums.

Origins of Manga: Katsushika Hokusai

The origins of manga can be traced back to the 19th century with the works of Katsushika Hokusai. In 1814, Hokusai created a series of sketches that would be considered the earliest form of manga. The term 'manga' itself is derived from the Japanese word man#257;, meaning 'whimsical pictures'. These sketches depicted a range of scenes and characters, setting the stage for the genre's evolution in the following centuries.

The Earliest Known Anime

When it comes to anime, the very first piece of work is often attributed to a 1917 short silent film titled A Dull Sword. This early animation humorously depicted a samurai who acquired a dull sword, marking a significant milestone in the animation industry.

The Very First Anime: 1917 and Beyond

While A Dull Sword is considered the first anime, the very first known anime was created in February 1917. This work, known as Dekobu014bo Shingachu014bo: Meian no Shippai (Bumpy New Picture Book: Failure of a Great Plan), was produced in Japan. However, this first anime has since been lost or destroyed. It featured pen and ink drawings of a clown playing on a desk, with a few cels preserved in a private collection in Japan.

1922 marked another significant first in the history of anime. It was the year that the first feature-length silent anime was made in Germany by a Japanese production team directed by a woman. This achievement was particularly noteworthy, even though Hollywood’s use of sepia color tinting came much later, and TV was not commercialized until the 1950s. The film, titled Prince Ahmed, used sepia coloring and remains widely available on both VHS and DVD.

The Early Days and Beyond

Following the creation of Prince Ahmed, the animation industry continued to evolve. In 1924, American silent film star Douglas Fairbanks portrayed the title character of Ahmed in the film Thief of Baghdad, which was based on the animation. A remake of this film came in 1940, starring Sabu as the title character, with Conrad Veidt as the villainous Grand Wazier.

The most controversial remake of Thief of Baghdad was released in 1961, starring Steve Reeves, an actor related to George Reeves, who played Superman on TV at the time. This film's casting of Reeves in the role of a non-Arab royal caused significant controversy within his family due to their anti-Arab and pro-Jewish stance. As a result, the family attempted to buy up as many copies of the film as possible, but true collectors were able to preserve it for future generations.

Conclusion

The early works of manga and anime, although primitive by today's standards, laid the foundation for the rich and diverse mediums we know today. The evolution of these forms of storytelling continues, shaped by technology, cultural influences, and the creativity of dedicated artists. Whether you're a veteran fan or a newcomer to these genres, understanding the origins of manga and anime enhances your appreciation of the art and stories they produce.