Discover the First Manga Ever: Chōjū-jinbutsu-giga

Explore the origins of manga with Chōjū-jinbutsu-giga, the first manga from the 12th century.

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The first manga, often referred to as “Chōjū-jinbutsu-giga” or “Scrolls of Frolicking Animals and People,” dates back to the 12th century. These scrolls are credited to artist Toba Sōjō and are regarded as the origin of manga art due to their comical depictions reminiscent of modern manga style. They represent animals simulating human behaviors, acting as a precursor to storytelling through expressive illustrations, a hallmark of today’s manga. This historical artifact remains a significant milestone in the evolution of Japanese visual storytelling.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the significance of 'Chōjū-jinbutsu-giga' in manga history? 'Chōjū-jinbutsu-giga,' also known as 'Scrolls of Frolicking Animals and People,' is considered the first manga, dating back to the 12th century. It features playful illustrations of animals behaving like humans, highlighting the early roots of visual storytelling in Japan and influencing the development of modern manga.
  2. Who created the first manga? The first manga, 'Chōjū-jinbutsu-giga,' is credited to the artist Toba Sōjō, whose innovative style and humorous narratives laid the groundwork for the manga art form we know today.
  3. How did early manga influence modern manga? Early manga, like 'Chōjū-jinbutsu-giga,' established crucial elements of visual storytelling, humor, and character expression, which are foundational in modern manga and continue to shape its evolution.
  4. When did manga become popular in Japan? Manga began gaining popularity in the late Edo period (17th to 19th century) but became widespread and culturally significant during the post-World War II era, evolving into the diverse genres we see today.

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