For dedicated fans of anime and manga, especially a series as iconic as Sailor Moon, many of the seemingly intricate details are already well-trodden ground. The rabbit symbolism, for instance, is widely recognized within the fandom, easily connecting the moon and rabbits in a nod to East Asian folklore. However, to truly delve into the deeper, more fascinating layers of Sailor Moon, we need to explore beyond the obvious.
Today, we’re venturing into the purr-plexing world of cats in Sailor Moon and unraveling the reasons behind Ms. Takeuchi’s feline fascination. Prepare to be amazed, because we’re about to uncover some truly pawsome secrets!
Seriously Luna, explain yourself!
Luna’s stern expression in Sailor Moon Crystal, demanding answers.
At first glance, the presence of cats as companions for Usagi (Sailor Moon), Minako (Sailor Venus), and ChibiUsa (Sailor Chibi Moon) might seem purely practical. Cats are indeed beloved pets, particularly in Japan where smaller living spaces often favor smaller animals. While cats are undeniably popular in Japan, and their popularity has surged in recent years, this modern trend doesn’t fully explain the deep-rooted connection in Sailor Moon.
The real answer, as with many of Sailor Moon‘s intriguing elements, lies in the rich tapestry of Greco-Roman mythology. To truly understand the Sailor Moon cat phenomenon, we must journey back to ancient goddesses and their feline associations.
TFW your mother cries harder about the cat than her own kid
Usagi and Luna in a poignant scene, highlighting their close bond.
The Mythological Link: Artemis, Bastet, and Lunar Felines
As previously explored, the names of the feline advisors – Luna, Artemis, and Diana – are far from coincidental. They directly echo figures from Greek and Roman mythology. Luna is the Roman goddess of the moon, Artemis is her Greek counterpart, and Diana is another Roman name for the moon goddess, often syncretized with Artemis. These are not just names; they are deliberate links to lunar deities.
But what connects these moon goddesses to cats? The answer emerges in the tales of Artemis, the Greek goddess of the moon, hunting, wilderness, wild animals, and, importantly, childbirth and protection.
In one compelling myth, the story of Typhon, a monstrous serpentine giant who challenged Zeus’s rule, reveals a significant detail. Faced with Typhon’s immense power, the Olympian gods fled to Egypt. To conceal themselves from the monstrous Typhon, each god transformed into an animal. Artemis, in a fascinating twist, chose to transform into a cat.
Practically the same person!
Luna, Artemis, and Diana depicted together, visually representing their shared mythological origins.
This wasn’t just any feline form; Artemis transformed into Bastet, the revered Egyptian goddess with the head of a cat. Bastet was a powerful deity associated with protection, cats, music, dance, family, fertility, and childbirth. The Greeks, known for their cultural exchange and adaptation, often integrated narratives from other cultures, blending them with their own mythology.
During the Greek presence in Egypt, which lasted for nearly three centuries, the identities of Bastet and Artemis gradually intertwined. The attributes and stories of Bastet, the cat goddess, became associated with Artemis, the moon goddess. Eventually, these two powerful goddesses merged in perception, solidifying the link between the moon and cats in the Western mythological consciousness.
This mythological fusion provides a compelling explanation for why cats became such prominent figures in Sailor Moon. Luna, Artemis, and Diana are not simply cute animal sidekicks; they are embodiments of this ancient connection between lunar goddesses and felines.
Something tells me this isn
A humorous image of a cat family with human-like features, playfully contrasting with the divine image of Bastet.
Takeuchi’s Vision and the Feline Choice
Did Naoko Takeuchi consciously incorporate this deep mythological background when creating Sailor Moon? While we can’t definitively know her exact intentions, the evidence suggests a strong possibility. Takeuchi was known for her meticulous research, particularly when naming characters, drawing inspiration from various mythologies and cultures. Artemis was, notably, the first cat introduced in Codename: Sailor V, the precursor to Sailor Moon, hinting at a foundational role for this feline connection from the very beginning of the series’ conception.
Beyond the mythological resonance, cats are also practically convenient companions in a magical girl narrative. Their independent nature allows them to move freely, offering guidance and support to the Sailor Guardians without constant supervision, fitting seamlessly into the lives of teenage heroines.
Or maybe they
A playful image of a Luna-themed burger from a Sailor Moon cafe, showcasing the series’ enduring popularity and creative merchandise.
In conclusion, the prevalence of cats in Sailor Moon is far more than a simple aesthetic choice. It’s a nod to a rich tapestry of mythology, linking lunar goddesses like Artemis and Bastet with the elegant and enigmatic feline form. Luna, Artemis, and Diana are not just pets; they are symbolic representations of this ancient bond, adding depth and mystique to the magical world of Sailor Moon. So, the next time you see Luna advising Usagi, remember the powerful goddesses and ancient myths that purr beneath the surface of this beloved series.
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