Yōkai as reflections of modern society in Pom Poko and Princess Mononoke

The aim of this thesis is to examine the role of yōkai ("supernatural and strange entities") in modern Japanese society by analyzing two critically acclaimed animated movies Pom Poko (1994) and Princess Mononoke (1997) by Studio Ghibli. The movies, which are both centered around yōkai and yōkai related supernatural folklore use the yōkai to reflect contemporary Japanese society. The movies achieve this by showing the negative effects of rapid modernization has on yōkai in the movies, which are usually in the form of anthropomorphized animals. These negative effects include pollution, destruction of nature, deforestation, and animal deaths related to these consequences. The animal visage of yōkai, their mysterious status as creatures of the borderlands and their deep and rich history so well integrated in Japanese culture allows the directors of the movies Isao Takahata and Hayao Miyazaki to tackle issues that plague modern Japan. I believe looking at how folklore has been incorporated into popular culture is significant in this day and age. This is why I chose two animated movies beloved by both Japanese and global audiences. By analyzing these movies, I came to the conclusion that, yōkai play a big role in Japan: A reflection of society itself. I argue that the movies use yōkai to inspire younger audiences to think critically of the nature and culture they are a part of.