Nation Building and the Role of Leadership: The Case Example of Tensei shitara slime datta ken

Abstract

In this paper, I will deal with the isekai anime ‘Tensei shitara slime datta ken‘ (eng.: That Time I got reincarnated as a slime) and will examine its potential power and messages in a new shed light. As the main argument of this paper will deal with the main character and his ‘semi-diplomatic’ attempts to build a nation out of the blue, I will argue that in critically analyzing the strategic ends, ways and means used by the main character can give insight into to mindset of an archetypical understanding of how and under which circumstances leadership and social interaction between human beings is presented in a Japanese context. For a better understanding of this – unfortunate – less researched field, I will present the current state of research regarding isekai animes. After a synopsis of the series of interests, specific aspects and actions of the main character will be highlighted to contribute to a better and critical understanding of the presumed unintended message that ‘Tensei shitara slime datta ken‘ is sending.

Keywords

• nation-building
• militarization
• isekai
• representation
• anime
• anime studies