Japanese manga

Japanese Manga
Genre	Template:Comics infobox sec/genre

Japanese manga refers to comics or graphic novels originating from Japan, conforming to a style developed in Japan in the late 19th century. Manga encompasses a wide range of genres and reaches audiences in many different and diverse spectrums of ages. Manga is a very important part of the Japanese culture and has been a major part of the publishing industry, influencing anime, another popular Japanese form of entertainment.

History

The history of manga can be traced back to scrolls dating from the 12th century, but the form as we know it today began to take shape in the aftermath of World War II, influenced by American comics brought to Japan by the GIs. Modern manga grew during the 1950s with the works of Osamu Tezuka and has since become a significant cultural force both in Japan and globally.

Characteristics

Manga, in its most typical form, is printed in black and white and is read from right to left, a format that may seem unusual to Western readers. This reading order is a remnant of traditional Japanese writing. The art style in manga is very distinctive, often featuring characters with large eyes, small mouths, and exaggerated facial expressions to convey emotions clearly.

Genres

Manga genres are diverse, including, but not limited to, shōnen manga (for boys), shōjo manga (for girls), seinen manga (for adult men), and josei manga (for adult women). Each genre caters to various age groups and interests, from action-packed adventures to romantic dramas, and more complex themes suited for adults.

Cultural Impact

Manga has had a significant impact on global pop culture. It has influenced the style and storytelling techniques of many artists outside Japan and has been a major factor in the rise of the 'Cool Japan' phenomenon. Internationally, manga has inspired the creation of comics in many countries, with local artists adopting the manga style.

See Also

• Anime
• List of manga artists
• Manga iconography