Abstract
This thesis discusses the application of intertextuality theory in Chinese traditional animation making, which can be understood as a study of intertextuality between Chinese and Western cultures in a hybrid media form. This is a practice-led artistic thesis that consists of an animation adaptation, Jingwei Reclamation (2021), and a written exegesis. This thesis applies the concept of ‘Yi Xiang’ to explore the perception of integration with Western culture from a Chinese lens. Intertextuality has been used to integrate the three-act structure, Aristotle’s tragedy theory and Chinese mythology’s tragic principles, and to incorporate animism and Tian Ren He Yi’s philosophy into the adaptation. The concept of technical intertextuality makes Chinese shadow puppetry and Chinese ink-wash painting established the visual expression and style with Chinese characteristics, as well as integrated the darkness and light of Western shadow theatre to enhance the emotional communication of visual language. Through the application of intertextuality, the Chinese mythological spirit of fearlessness and sacrifice from Jingwei Reclamation can be understood in a wider global context.
