Anime serves as a powerful medium for exploring complex themes in Japanese spirituality. The course "Anime and Religious Identity" uses visuals and narratives from popular series to explain Buddhist karma and Shintō kami. Scenes from "Mob Psycho 100" illustrate how intentions influence moral weight, while "Mushishi" presents a unique perspective on spirits in nature. The course was inspired by strong student reactions to characters like Gyōmei Himejima in "Demon Slayer," fostering discussions about compassion and the nature of violence within spiritual contexts.
A scene from "Mob Psycho 100" sparked a conversation about how our intentions and actions carry real moral weight, emphasizing that karma shapes relationships in the present.
In discussing kami in Shintō, a moment from "Mushishi" helped students think differently about the presence of spiritual forces in everyday nature.
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