Nature vs Industry: The Dilemma in Princess Mononoke

2025年9月9日 TK

Released in 1997, Princess Mononoke stands out as one of Studio Ghibli’s most profound works, deeply reflecting Japanese history, views on nature, and pressing social issues.
At its core lies the tension between environmental destruction and industrial development. While it may appear on the surface as simply “the forest versus humanity,” director Hayao Miyazaki weaves in a far more complex perspective.
In this article, we will dive deeper into the film’s themes and historical context to uncover the true depth of its appeal.

Historical Setting

The story is set in Japan during the 14th to 16th centuries—a turbulent era of war and social upheaval. Mountains were carved away in the pursuit of iron, and vast forests disappeared as a result.
The “Tatara Ironworks” depicted in the film symbolize this drive for industrial growth. While iron brought prosperity to society, it also accelerated the destruction of nature.

Behind the appearance of giant beasts and nature spirits lies Japan’s ancient animistic worldview. The film reflects long-standing beliefs in yaoyorozu no kami—the “eight million gods”—and the deep fear and reverence toward tatari-gami, or vengeful deities.

Themes Embodied by the Characters

One of the greatest strengths of Princess Mononoke lies in how its characters are not defined by simple notions of “good” or “evil.”

Lady Eboshi, while sacrificing nature, provides refuge and purpose to outcasts, the sick, and women.

San (the “Princess Mononoke”), though human, stands fiercely on the side of nature, carrying within her the contradiction of hating her own kind.

Ashitaka stands in the middle, striving to see both humanity and nature with what the film calls “eyes unclouded.”

This dynamic mirrors the very dilemma between industrial progress and environmental preservation.

Environmental Destruction and the “Curse”

The “curse” that Ashitaka bears in the film symbolizes the consequences humanity faces when it destroys nature. The raging boar god and the rampage of the Forest Spirit serve as allegories of how environmental destruction can spiral out of control and ultimately rebound upon humanity itself.

As a message to the modern world, Princess Mononoke speaks directly to us in the 21st century. Behind the convenience of modern life and the pursuit of economic growth lies the ongoing devastation of the environment. By refusing to ignore this contradiction and instead asking ourselves “How should we live?”, we come closer to embodying the “eyes unclouded” perspective that Ashitaka strives for.

Coexistence with Contradictions, Not Harmony

By the end of the story, Ashitaka and San do not choose to live entirely together. Humans and nature cannot achieve perfect harmony. Yet, the film portrays them seeking a future while respecting each other. This conveys a realistic message: “Coexistence between nature and industry is not easy, but it is a path we must pursue nonetheless.”