FMA Stuff

[evil_little_dog]

Interesting, that Arakawa has said she based the Ishbalan characters more or less on the Ainu of Japan, and their persecution. Watching the History Channel today, I heard a repetitive name come up - Ishbaal, who fought against David

Comments

[vince_moon]

It's hard to come up with something that's truly original. Things are usually going to be connected.

That's cool, thanks for sharing.

[evil_little_dog]

She did a lot of research on various things, so I wouldn't be at all surprised if she decided to use that name for her people's race.

[bob_fish]

Interesting! Yes, that does seem to fit in with her naming pattern for Amestris and Xerxes. I didn't know that she based the Ishbalans and their persecution on the Ainu, but I did wonder if that's what she had in mind. I always feel like FMA has this Japanese historical subtext that we can miss because the setting's so European and so apparently wrapped up in 20th century European history.

[evil_little_dog]

One of her interviews, she mentioned she has Ainu in her family line, and heard stories about their persecution (growing up? That was the implication). The persecution of the Ishbalans is based on that.

And yet, it could also be read as European, and also American (look at the indigenous peoples here and how they're still treated).

[bob_fish]

Oddly, I hadn't thought of the American angle, but you're right, that does resonate!

[evil_little_dog]

Not to mention the Japanese Americans held during WWII, including those who were in the military.

[cornerofmadness]

this is quite interesting

[evil_little_dog]

I was geeking out quietly to myself about this, you know.

[cornerofmadness]

i believe it

[ishte]

I think that's interesting. I love how much work she puts into her world building. In particular I love how she put together the world and history of Fullmetal Alchemist, but also the naming conventions that she used are neat.

[evil_little_dog]

Definitely!

[crazybeagle]

Xerxes = notorious ancient Persian king
Amestris = his evil, human-sacrificing wife.

[evil_little_dog]

Yup, which is why I thought it was interesting when I kept hearing the name 'Ishbaal' being bandied about on the history program I was listening to. :D

[crazybeagle]

You know, I think I'm now in gay love with Arakawa.
History is sexy.

[evil_little_dog]

Research is, too; I'm fascinated by some of the geeky research she throws into her work.