Understanding Japanese Manga and Its Differences from Comics

Kapanlagi.com - The understanding of Japanese manga refers to a narrative art that has become a symbol of Japanese culture on the global stage. As a form of comic or graphic novel, manga not only offers entertainment, but it is also a medium for conveying deep ideas, values, and emotions from creators to readers.

From thrilling action genres to heartwarming romantic stories, manga offers an interesting variety for readers from various backgrounds. With its unique art style, compelling storylines, and iconic characters, Japanese manga has positioned itself as an important part of modern Japanese popular culture.

Now, for those of you who want to further understand Japanese manga, here is the definition of Japanese manga along with its characteristics and differences from comics. Let's check it out, KLovers.

1. Understanding Manga

Illustration (credit: pixabay.com)

The understanding of Japanese manga is a form of narrative art originating from Japan. Manga is a comic or graphic novel that is often published in weekly or monthly magazines, or in compilation book formats called tankoubon. The term manga itself comes from the Japanese language, which literally means "still picture".

Japanese manga has its own distinctive characteristics in terms of art style, story, and target audience. The art style in manga varies greatly, but generally has some distinctive features such as characters with large eyes, rich facial expressions, and the use of dynamic panels to convey the story.

Japanese manga also covers various genres, ranging from action and adventure to romance, horror, science fiction, sports, and many more. The process of creating manga begins with the story creator (mangaka) who creates the plot and script, then draws the panels and fills them with text and dialogue.

After that, manga can be published in weekly or monthly manga magazines, or compiled into tankoubon after several chapters or volumes are completed. Some manga is also published online before or simultaneously with print publication. Manga itself has existed in various forms since ancient times in Japan.

However, its modern form began in the early 20th century. Works like Osamu Tezuka's "Astro Boy" (Tetsuwan Atom) are considered a turning point in the development of modern manga. Since then, manga has grown into a major industry in Japan and gained popularity worldwide.

Japanese manga has become an integral part of Japanese popular culture and has significant influence worldwide. Manga works have been translated into many languages and have become popular in various countries. This has sparked the formation of large manga fan communities outside of Japan.

In addition, there are many adaptations of manga into various forms of media such as anime, films, video games, and more. Overall, Japanese manga is a diverse and dynamic form of narrative art originating from Japan and has a strong influence on popular culture both domestically and internationally.

2. Are Manga and Comics Different?

Illustration (credit: pixabay.com)

Is manga the same as comics, or are they two different things? Manga and comics are two forms of narrative art with different origins and characteristics. Although they share similarities in essence, which is storytelling through sequential images.

Despite the significant differences between manga and comics, both have a great influence on popular culture and both provide means to tell stories using a combination of images and text. In terms of origin and culture, as KLovers know, manga originated from Japan.

Meanwhile, comics is a more commonly used term to refer to the narrative art form from various countries, including the United States (American comics), Europe (bandes dessinees in France), and other countries. Due to their different origins, manga and comics often have different art styles, themes, and narrative conventions.

Manga art style often has distinctive features such as characters with big eyes, dramatic facial expressions, and the use of dynamic panels. On the other hand, comic art styles can vary greatly depending on their country of origin, but often tend to follow more realistic or cartoonish art conventions.

Another difference is that traditional Japanese manga is read from right to left, while Western comics are usually read from left to right. This affects how panels are arranged and read order. Some manga published outside of Japan may have been adapted to a Western page orientation.

Manga is often published in longer formats, with stories that develop through multiple chapters or volumes. This allows manga authors (mangaka) to explore plot and characters in depth. On the other hand, comics are often published in the form of single stories or shorter series.

Although there are also comics with longer narratives. In terms of genre, manga and comics are quite different, KLovers. Although both cover various genres, manga and comics often target different audiences. For example, manga has genres like shounen, shoujo, seinen, and josei.

Comics also have diverse genres, but are often aimed at general readers or a wider audience without limiting to specific demographics. Until, as can be seen in the explanation above, although they may seem similar, manga and comics have significant differences.

That is the definition of Japanese manga that KLovers can know, along with the differences with comics. Japanese manga is not just a form of entertainment, but also a window into Japanese culture and values. With its growing popularity, manga remains an undeniable force in global popular culture.

(kpl/dhm)