Animecon is one of Scandinavia's premiere anime conventions. Originating in 1999 as an offshoot of the science fiction convention Finncon, today it annually greets thousands of attendees. This study reflects on the emergence of cosplay in Finland and its relationship to the postmodern. Based on personal interviews and first-hand observations during the summer of 2008, when the convention was achieving critical mass, the paper examines how the adoption of anime culture and cosplay among Finnish youth mirrors Finland’s political, geographic, and cultural liminality, then and now. The "manga" medium from which anime emerged has a history of satire, and cosplay is arguably postmodern parody, perhaps even blank parody reflecting the broader geopolitical context for Finland. How has the thread of cosplay in Finland in the 21st century been woven into the nation's recent history and the postmodern concept of "blank parody"?

Authors:
Mario Rodriguez, American University in the Emirates, United Arab Emirates

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Mario Rodriguez is a University Assistant Professor/Lecturer at American University in the Emirates. in United Arab Emirates

See this presentation on the full schedule – Monday Schedule

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