Atomowy kami. Motywy shintoistyczne w japońskiej serii filmów o Godzilli .......... 143

ATOMIC KAMI. SHINTŌ THEMES IN THE JAPANESE GODZILLA FILM SERIES

Since its debut in 1954, Godzilla has become an emblem of the threat posed by nuclear weapons, reflecting Japan’s post-war trauma. As the result of American nuclear experiments, Godzilla symbolizes the innocent victimhood of the Japanese nation. The film series, created by the Tōhō studio, currently comprises 33 titles, each addressing themes related to atomic energy and its consequences. This study analyzes the first fifteen films in the series, focusing on Shintō motifs that may shape their interpretation. In these films, Godzilla is often portrayed as a kami – a deity of dual nature, both destructive and protective. Rituals aimed at appeasing Godzilla, as well as figures such as Mothra, reveal strong connections to Japanese mythology and reverence for nature. Within the Shintō context, Godzilla and other monsters reflect the struggle between humanity and the forces of nature, with their wrath often linked to the destructive impact of civilization on the environment. Through this lens, the films convey a message about the necessity of protecting and respecting nature – a theme resonant with Japan’s postwar ecological movement. This analysis demonstrates how traditional Japanese culture and religion shape the unique character of the Godzilla series, making it not only a form of entertainment but also a reflection on human error and responsibility toward our planet.