Cosplay: The Fictional Mode of Existence

Cosplay has become an international phenomenon with fervent fans who gather at enormous, worldwide conventions annually. Frenchy Lunning's Cosplay explores the relationship between cosplay, global fandom, performance, and fictional existence, combining the fascinating viewpoints of cosplayers with observational research and critical theory. It is an engrossing, lively read that explores a complicated and often misunderstood history and meditates on how cosplay allows participants to create and construct meaning and identity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 05 April 2022
Publisher: University of Minnesota Press

Flourishing far beyond its Japanese roots, cosplay has emerged as an international phenomenon, captivating a fervent global fanbase that gathers annually at colossal conventions worldwide. In this captivating exploration, author Frenchy Lunning delves into the rich tapestry of cosplay, offering an intimate and sensational journey through its past and present. Drawing from years of personal research and a wealth of scholarship, conference presentations, and cosplayer interviews, Cosplay emerges as a unique and indispensable examination of identity, performance, play, and otaku fandom and culture in relation to contemporary theories.

Lunning delves into the intricate dynamics of cosplay, encompassing discussions on construction, masquerades, and community through performance. She presents cosplay as a dynamic and ever-evolving global practice, seamlessly blending the fascinating perspectives of cosplayers with observational, in-depth research on cosplay history and practice, as well as a deep dive into critical theory involving the modes of fictional existence.

Enhanced with stunning photographs, this captivating read unfolds as an engrossing and lively exploration of a complex and often misunderstood history. It meditates on the profound ways in which cosplay empowers its participants to create and construct meaning and identity, fostering a profound sense of self-expression and connection within the broader cosplay community.

Weight: 320g
Dimension: 140 x 215 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781517912154