Analysis Of Solipsism In Spirited Away

Solipsism is defined as "extreme preoccupation with and indulgence of one 's feelings, desires, etc.," and this trait fosters sins, such as greed and sloth (dictionary.com). Solipsism prevents personal growth and the attainment of genuine happiness. Solipsistic people are self-destructive because the happiness they seek to gain through their solipsistic tendencies can never be obtained due to those very same tendencies, and only an outside force, like the introduction of young Chihiro, can break through the cycle of self-destruction. The characters of Hayao Miyazaki 's Spirited Away, Yubaba, Haku, Boh, Lin, No Face, and even the small coal spirits, all display self-involvement and the resulting sins, which are only detrimental to themselves and others. These people are not inherently evil or outright malicious, but they lack the foresight to understand that their actions have consequences, both small and large. As Chihiro grows into a better person, she brings the others into the light with her.

In the beginning she is as self-involved and lazy as the other characters in the bathhouse. The opening scene involves her lying down in the back of a car, whiningly complaining that the first bouquet she receives is "a goodbye present." She does not simply appreciate the gesture, but looks for the negative in the gift. Chihiro complains and whines continuously until her parents are turned into pigs. The outside force that changes her is the introduction of the spirit world. Once she is separated from her parents, she is able to begin her growth as a person. She begins to care about others and their problems instead of focusing solely on her. She assists others and, as a result, she assists herself. Once she begins looking outside of her own desires, she sees the world as it is and tries to make it better with kindness. Chihiro is a strong motivating force, and her presence is the instigator of wonderful