Lecture on Hayao Miyazaki's "Princess Mononoke"

Overview

• Released: Japan, 1997
• Underrated work often reduced to its environmental message
• Actual richness lies in its symbolism and complex universe
• An initiatory journey in a non-Manichaean world

Story Summary

• Setting: Medieval Japan
• Protagonist: Ashitaka, future tribe chief, cursed by a demon
• Quest: Travels west to break the spell
• Antagonists: Lady Eboshi (industrialist) and Princess Mononoke (nature)

Themes and Characters

A Tale Beyond Manichaeism

• Conflict: Industry (Lady Eboshi) vs. Nature (San / Princess Mononoke)
• Complexity: Not a simple good vs. evil conflict
  • Lady Eboshi: Cares for lepers and ex-prostitutes, providing purpose and new roles
  • Nature: Spirits are wild but seek peace and balance
• Survival: Both sides fight for survival, not domination
• Purity: Miyazaki avoids clichés, showing depth and motivation for each character

Female Characters and Relationships

• Women in the forge: More complex man-woman relationship
• Parallels: Psychological and physical contrasts (e.g., Moro vs. Lady Eboshi)
• Transformation: Characters can shift from purity to terror and vice versa

Visual and Musical Harmony

• Art Style: Balance of colors, textures, design simplicity
• Music: Compositions by Joe Hisaishi enhance the emotional experience
• Director's Intent: To evoke a range of emotions, like Ashitaka's journey of discovery

Human-Nature Relationship

• Ashitaka: Represents civilized man with deep respect for nature
• San: Wild, hates humans, yet pivotal in proving humans aren't just destroyers
• Critique: Need for harmonious technological progress that respects nature

Importance of Love

• Subtle Theme: Love is shown through actions and words, not explicit but crucial
• Ashitaka and San: Symbolize the reunion of man and nature
  • Not a typical love story, but mutual respect
  • First meeting: San as a fierce, wild warrior
  • Relationship: Attraction and respect, not angelic nor horrific
• Other Relationships:
  • Moro and San: Love akin to mother-daughter
  • Lady Eboshi and her clan: Protective, nurturing relationship
  • Human Relationships: Each love and protect their own, driving the narrative

Film's Strong Messages

• Theme: Understanding and accepting differences to resolve conflict
• Duality: Both camps view the other as evil due to lack of communication
• Relevance: Presents a solution to current debates about cultural balance
• Final Message: Respecting diversity as the true beauty of our world

Conclusion

• Masterpiece Status: High-level integration of content and form
• Philosophy: Anti-Manichaean view promoting acceptance and respect
• Legacy: A monumental work blending tragedy, emotion, and deep philosophical inquiry