Monsters of Japan

Overview & Synopsis

The book presents a transcultural theory of monsters with a multidisciplinary approach inspired by monster studies, employing methods ranging from literary criticism to postcolonial studies, anthropology, sociology and cultural history. Particular attention is paid to the emergence of some of Japan’s most popular monsters, both past and present: the tengu (divine mountain demon), the kappa (water monster), Miyazaki Hayao’s hybrid monsters, and finally the broader trans/national process of monstrosity in globalised Japan.