Anthropological-semiotics of rhythm and animating modernity in China: A rhythmanalysis of Princess Iron Fan

Abstract

This article explores the contribution made by anthropological-semiotics of rhythm when it comes to comprehending visual modernity of East Asia, with a particular focus on China's experience. From the humanistic foundations of rhythm including cultural anthropological perspectives, traditions of rhythmanalysis, and semiotic thinking of rhythm, this paper demonstrates the construction of a semiotic square of rhythm along with a topology of rhythmia; then provides a case study of rhythmanalysis surrounding the emergence of the first Chinese feature animated film entitled Princess Iron Fan; and ultimately presents the potential of establishing the multiplicity of modernities based on the transdisciplinary examination of rhythm in visual cultures of East Asia. © 2016 by De Gruyter Mouton.