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| Godzilla (Fair Use) |
The modern mythology of Godzilla is so strong that the Japanese people (along with many others) continue their love/hate relationship with this complex monster.
On the one hand, Godzilla is far worse than a fire-breathing dragon.
The “fire” that Godzilla exhales is radioactive, symbolizing the destructiveness of atomic/nuclear warfare.
On the other hand, Godzilla is a force that can also yield goodness.
After the destruction comes the rebirth.
This gojiri (half gorilla/ half whale) of a creature has therefore been likened to a Shinto “God of Destruction” – one which “lacks moral agency and cannot be held to human standards of good and evil.”
Wikipedia explains that Godzilla’s “vaguely humanoid appearance” and clumsy demeanor endears it to viewers “despite its wrathful nature.” Humans may be subconsciously recognizing their own dichotomies as they pay homage to Godzilla’s dual nature.
Godzilla is so ubiquitous that its image pops up in varied venues the world over. This lovable “lad” has been featured in everything from Subway ads to Honda commercials (for which both companies have been sued by Godzilla’s parent company, Toho).
Resources
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Godzilla
Copyright April 10, 2015 by Linda Van Slyke All Rights Reserved
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