Anime has taken the world by storm with its vibrant characters, unique storylines, and spectacular animation. Anime, like any other form of entertainment, has its own jargon, and one term that is quite popular in the anime community is “Canon.”
So, what does anime Canon mean? In simple terms, Canon refers to the events, characters, or plot points that are considered to be part of the official storyline of an anime. These elements are considered to be “official” because they are directly derived from the original source material, such as a manga, novel, or video game. This means that Canon is considered to be the “true” or “official” history of the characters and their world, and anything outside of that is not considered to be part of the main story.
The concept of Canon originates from the world of literature but has been adapted for use in anime and other forms of entertainment. In literature, Canon refers to books that are considered to be part of the official, recognized history of a particular genre, period, or author’s body of work. Similarly, in anime, Canon elements are those that are accepted as official and directly derived from the source material, while non-Canon elements are considered to be “unofficial” or “not canon.”
Why is the idea of Canon important in anime? For starters, it provides a standard for fans to identify what is considered to be the “official” version of events, characters, and storylines. This helps to avoid confusion or conflicting interpretations within the fan community, especially since anime adaptations often differ from their source material.
Additionally, Canon helps to develop the characters and their world over time, which can be a significant investment for fans. By knowing what is considered to be part of the official storyline, fans can follow the development of their favorite characters and their world as they progress through the series. This, in turn, helps to build a more immersive and engaging experience for fans.
One thing to note is that while Canon is the “official” version of events, it does not necessarily mean that it is the “best” or most interesting option. Many anime adaptations take artistic liberties with the source material or feature original storylines that can be just as engaging as the Canon storylines. Non-Canon elements allow for more creativity and flexibility in storytelling, which can often result in more interesting and engaging storylines.
However, the problem with non-Canon elements is that they can create inconsistencies or plot holes in the overall narrative. This can be frustrating for fans who have invested in the official Canon storyline and detract from the overall quality of the series. As such, fan creators often create alternate universes or stories that diverge from the official Canon to explore other possibilities while avoiding inconsistencies with the original storyline.
In conclusion, Canon is an essential term used in anime to denote the elements derived from the source material that are considered to be part of the official storyline. While non-Canon elements can be just as engaging and creative, they have the potential to create inconsistencies and detract from the overall quality of the series. By understanding the concept of Canon, anime fans can follow the development of their favorite shows and characters and engage in discussions and debates about the official storyline.