Arts and Humanities - Publication

11 Publications found
Characteristics of Animals in Picture Books of the Fantastic There and Back Again Stories
Characteristics of Animals in Picture Books of the Fantastic There and Back Again Stories

Authors: Kanae Hara , Naoko Koda

In Arts and Humanities, Other

By Science Publishing Group

This study quantitatively examines the characteristics of depictions of animals in 189 picture books of fantastic there and back again stories in which humans are the protagonists, and explores the interactions between humans and animals. While many animals are involved in protagonists’ movement to other worlds, far more animals are uninvolved. The animals are often portrayed as having unclear age and sex. Various species have been identified, and cats are the most popular animals that assist the protagonists’ movement and they may or may not opt to participate in their movement; meanwhile, crows tend to trigger the movement. Animals that are uninvolved in the protagonists’ movement are characterized by their location depending on whether they are domestic animals, which tend to be shown in the world before the protagonists’ movement; feral animals tend to be seen in the world after the protagonists’ movement. Many animals in picture books give children a sense of security while reading from the standpoint of biophilia and promoting understanding of the story. The vagueness of animals’ age, sex, and appearance can expand the imaginations of child readers. Cats, in particular, can attract humans from the inside to the outside of their living sphere with their fantastical nature associated with their ecology and history of relationships with humans as companion animals. Crows are described as having the ability to cross the real world and other realms due to their history of being worshiped by humans and their ability to fly. Fantastic there and back again stories in picture books provide opportunities for children to form perceptions of animals. Further, depictions of animals in picture books may expand children’s cognition when they understand the world and form their own perspectives.

Unveiling the Symbolism Behind the Lesbian Flag: A Colorful Expression of Identity from Rainbow Depot

Authors: Yong Liu

In Arts and Humanities

By Dany Lawren

Introduction: In the rich tapestry of LGBTQ+ representation, flags have become powerful symbols, each with its unique set of colors and meanings. Among them, the Lesbian Pride Flag stands as a vibrant testament to the diversity and unity within the lesbian community. Rainbow Depot, a dedicated advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility, offers insight into the symbolism behind the Lesbian Flag, celebrating the colors that represent the rich tapestry of lesbian identity.