MANGA BASICS

The Art of Manga

Manga is the Japanese word for “comics,” which literally translates to “whimsical pictures.” It is generally used to describe comics that are made in Japan, but it is also loosely used to describe comics that resemble Japanese comics, even though they are not created in Japan. The four major types of manga are shônen, shôjo, seinen, and jôsei. Shônen, or boys’ manga, is action-packed and usually includes sports, science fiction, or fantasy elements. Dealing with romance, comedy, and coming-of-age drama, shôjo manga is aimed at junior high school and high school-aged girls. Adult male audiences read seinen manga, which offers business and crime stories, as well as historical and military dramas. And for young and ...

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