Spirited Away

Hayao MiyazakiFiction | Graphic Novel/Book | YA | Published in 2002

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Summary

Background

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Character Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Tools

Beta

Discussion Questions

Background

Authorial Context

Spirited Away, Book 1 is based on a film of the same named, written and directed by Hiyao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli. As referenced in the included author biography, Miyazaki is the most popular animator in Japan. He has produced several films, all of which received critical and popular acclaim in Japan and worldwide. Miyazaki’s works often focus on spirituality and nature, and he is inspired by Japanese (especially Shinto) folklore. Spirited Away was the highest-grossing film in history in Japan for 19 years. Miyazaki was inspired to create the film when he witnessed the sullen state of a close friend’s 10-year-old daughter. His films are also motivated by Miyazaki’s dissatisfaction with modern children’s entertainment; he wishes to insert something more meaningful, traditional, detailed, and vibrant into his work.

Cultural Context

Large portions of the plot line, characters, and themes of Spirited Away are inspired by Japanese folklore and the Shinto religion. Examples of the Shinto religion found throughout Book 1 include the Hokora, the Dosojin, and the Suijin. As her father drives through the forest, Chihiro notices Hokora—discarded in a pile as if the religion is being forgotten. A Dosojin guards the entrance to the spirit world. Haku is a Suijin who harnesses the powers of wind and water to create magic. Shintoism combines folklore, religious beliefs, and morality and strongly emphasizes the importance of humans’ connection with nature. Spirited Away is a microcosmic commentary on modern people’s disregard for nature and spirituality.