The theme of memory has played a significant role in anime throughout its evolution as an art form and as popular entertainment. Anime’s handling of memory is multifaceted, weaving it into diverse symbolic motifs, narratives and aesthetic issues. This study aims to provide a detailed analysis of a range of anime titles wherein different aspects of this cultural phenomenon are articulated. It explores anime films and series that exemplify the distinctive signatures placed by particular directors or studios on the treatment of memory, while also highlighting the prominence of memory in anime with reference to specific philosophical, artistic, and historical contexts.

Dani Cavallaro has written widely about literature, cultural theory, and anime. She lives in London.

Dani Cavallaro
Format: softcover (7 x 10)
Pages: 204
Bibliographic Info: filmography, notes, bibliography, index
Copyright Date: 2009
pISBN: 978-0-7864-4112-9
eISBN: 978-0-7864-5347-4
Imprint: McFarland

Preface      1

1. Theoretical Perspectives      5
2. Memory and Desire      13
3. The Archaeology of Memory      31
4. Memory as Quest      51
5. Split Memories      69
6. Memory and the City      90
7. Memory as Worldbuilding      109
8. Submerged Memories      133
9. Haunted Memories      155

Filmography      177
Chapter Notes      183
Bibliography      188
Index      191