How To Cite Manga Properly?

Manga, a popular form of visual storytelling originating from Japan, has captivated audiences worldwide. Whether it's Shonen, Shojo, Seinen, or Josei, each genre has its own unique elements that draw readers in. When referencing manga in academic work, it is essential to understand how to cite manga accurately. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to cite manga correctly, ensuring proper attribution and adherence to academic standards.

Understanding Manga Citation Basics

Citing manga correctly involves adhering to specific citation styles such as APA, MLA, or Chicago. Each of these styles has distinct rules regarding how to format sources. Understanding these formats is crucial for accurate citation.

Why Accurate Citation Matters

Accurate citation of manga serves several purposes:

• It gives credit to creators and authors.
• It allows readers to locate the original source easily.
• It enhances the credibility of your work.

How to Cite Manga in Different Styles

Each citation style has unique requirements for citing manga. Below are guidelines for the most commonly used academic formats.

MLA Format

In Modern Language Association (MLA) format, cite manga as follows:

Format Structure

Author's Last Name, First Name. Title of Manga. Translated by Translator's Name, Volume Number, Publisher, Year.

Example

Oda, Eiichiro. One Piece. Translated by Stephen Paul, vol. 1, VIZ Media, 2003.

APA Format

The American Psychological Association (APA) style requires a different structure:

Format Structure

Author's Last Name, First Initial. (Year). Title of Manga (Volume Number). Publisher.

Example

Oda, E. (2003). One Piece (Vol. 1). VIZ Media.

Chicago Style

In Chicago style, the citation format varies slightly based on whether the work is used in footnotes or bibliographies:

Footnote Format

First Name Last Name, Title of Manga (City of Publication: Publisher, Year), Volume Number.

Bibliography Format

Last Name, First Name. Title of Manga. City of Publication: Publisher, Year.

Example

Oda, Eiichiro. One Piece. San Francisco: VIZ Media, 2003.

Key Elements to Include When Citing Manga

Regardless of the citation style used, certain key elements must always be included. Here’s what to focus on:

Author Information

Always include the author's name. If the manga has multiple authors, list them accordingly. For works where a different translator is involved, that information must also be captured.

Title of the Work

The title of the manga should be italicized. Ensure you use the title as it appears on the cover to maintain accuracy.

Publication Details

Provide the name of the publisher and the year of publication. If you're citing a specific volume, mention the volume number.

Examples of Citing Specific Manga Titles

Here are a few examples of how to cite popular manga titles, demonstrating various citation styles.

Example 1: “Naruto” by Masashi Kishimoto

MLA Format

Kishimoto, Masashi. Naruto. Translated by Mari Morimoto, vol. 1, VIZ Media, 2003.

APA Format

Kishimoto, M. (2003). Naruto (Vol. 1). VIZ Media.

Example 2: “Attack on Titan” by Hajime Isayama

Chicago Style

Isayama, Hajime. Attack on Titan. Tokyo: Kodansha, 2010.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Citing Manga

Being aware of common pitfalls can help ensure that citations are accurate. Here are mistakes to avoid:

• Not italicizing the title of the manga.
• Forgetting to include volume numbers where applicable.
• Misidentifying the author or translator's name.

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing how to cite manga properly is crucial for academic integrity. Whether using MLA, APA, or Chicago style, ensure that you follow the specific guidelines provided in this article. By accurately citing your sources, you contribute to the scholarly conversation and respect the work of manga creators. Always double-check your citations and stay updated with any changes in citation styles to maintain the highest standards in your academic writing.