Just Looking: Tantalization, Lolicon, and Virtual Girls

Shari L. Savage

Shari L. Savage The Ohio State University

Abstract

Using discourse analysis, I critically investigate the intertextuality of the Japanese subculture of Lolicon and Lolita representations; including the controversy around erotic anime called rorikon, and issues related to virtual child pornography. What was once culturally-bound to Japan, now influences popular culture in the United States and Europe. Inherent in the formation of Lolicon and rorikon are the discursive connections threading throughout the Lolita genre and the subculture of Loli-girls, which I argue serve to tantalize and further promote consumption of sexualized girl imagery.

Author Biography

Shari L. Savage, The Ohio State University

Shari L. Savage is an assistant professor in the Department of Arts Administration, Education and Policy at The Ohio State University in Columbus Ohio, where she also serves as Undergraduate Studies Chair. She received her Ph.D. in Art Education from The Ohio State University (OSU); her B.A.E. and M.A., were also earned at OSU. Her research interests include narrative inquiry, critical analyses of media, and mentoring. She is the author of several book chapters and has published research in leading academic journals in the field of art education, including Art Education, Visual Arts Research, Visual Culture & Gender, and Studies in Art Education. Shari L. Savage can be contacted at savage.12@osu.edu