The term "manga" is the Japanese word for comics. It is a combination of two kanji characters:
man) - meaning "whimsical" or "capricious"ga) - meaning "picture"Together, these two characters convey the idea of "impromptu sketches" or "playful drawings."
The earliest known use of the term "manga" in the context of comics can be traced back to the late 18th century. In 1798, the Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai published a series of satirical drawings called "Hokusai Manga." These drawings featured humorous and caricatured depictions of everyday life.
However, it was not until the 20th century that "manga" became widely used to refer to the genre of Japanese comics. In the 1920s and 1930s, a new wave of artists emerged who began to produce serialized comics in magazines and newspapers. These comics were often serialized in weekly or monthly anthologies, known as "manga magazines."
The term "manga" quickly gained popularity and became the standard way to refer to Japanese comics in both Japan and abroad. Over time, the meaning of "manga" has expanded to include a wide range of styles and genres, from traditional shōnen (boys') and shōjo (girls') manga to avant-garde and experimental works.
The term "manga" embodies the playful and whimsical nature of Japanese comics. Its etymology reflects the genre's origins as impromptu sketches and humorous drawings, while its modern usage encompasses the vast diversity of styles and themes found in Japanese comics today.
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