This research examines how Texans have a sense of cultural identity through anime. While this may apply to many regions, this paper specifically examines individuals at Texas A&M University Kingsville, located in South Texas and home to many students, and alumni. This paper displays both History and Anthropology to support my thesis. This study will primarily focus on award winnings series Naruto and Attack on Titan. These two-television anime are used as forms of cultural identity through philosophy, identity and socially. Naruto themes are freedom, belonging and cycle of hatred in society. In comparison, Attack on Titan themes is freedom, sacrifice, and can be used to resemble history through displaying the repetition of violence. By studying these themes, this paper examines how students and alumni at TAMUK build a sense of identity through anime. Also, how students understand themes of freedom and determination from the two anime. In this project, qualitative research will be conducted by interview questions amongst students, and alumni. It further references archives at other Texas universities to research past club activities or social events relating to anime on their campuses. Along with this, ProQuest will be utilized through the Jernigan Library database to access several thesis and dissertations. Overall, this study analyzed responses and oral histories from students and alumni associated with Texas A&M University Kingsville. Overall, students and alumni were able to express their interpretations of the themes of cultural identity, freedom and determination.

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Veronica Duran

Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences