Anime is an extravagant and expressive form of media that allows for a diverse visual style. This style means that characters are able to be presented and represented in a myriad of ways, including those that break away from typical gender norms.
Many characters in anime never have their gender directly stated. They are left ambiguous, existing somewhere between the stereotypical masculine and feminine appearance. Many prominent androgynous characters serve a vital role both within the media they exist, both in and outside it.
Why Gender Nonconforming Representation in Anime Matters
As with every other demographic, representation is incredibly important for gender nonconforming individuals. Seeing characters defy binary presentation can be a source of inspiration and help normalize it in society. For example, showcasing androgynous characters who are heroic and intelligent leaders lets audiences know that gender-nonconforming people are equally capable of great things. They are full and complex people who deserve visibility and acceptance in society.
Hange Zoë from Attack on Titan is an excellent example of androgynous representation. The author of Attack on Titan's manga, Hajime Isayama, has explicitly left Hange's gender unclear. As an androgynous character, Hange has played a massive role throughout Attack on Titan's story. They have used their intelligence to solve many mysteries and create powerful titan-killing weapons. Hange's leadership and skill earned them the title of 14th Commander of the Survey Corps later on in the series.
No More Gender Roles in Anime
Characters that don't neatly fall into a male or female role at first glance are often free from constraining gender expectations. They are able to engage in masculine/feminine actions or hobbies without other people batting an eye. They detach certain behaviors and personality traits from gender.
Although Haku from Naruto is a boy with a very feminine face, his characterization isn't bound by gender roles. He dresses in feminine clothing and is also very kind to those he cares about, but he can still be ruthless to those who anger him. Haku behaves in ways that are typically viewed as both masculine and feminine during their time in the series. Haku often fills a support role with his partner Zabuza by collecting medicine for him and tending to his wounds. They are also a powerful fighter able to defeat opponents much older than them.
There's Still Room for Change about Gender Identity in the Anime World
Androgynous characters often represent fluidity and the possibility for change. It's difficult to pin them down because they get to decide who they are, and that can change at any moment they wish. Many of these characters understand that identity doesn't have to be stagnant, and that it can shift and change to best suit their desires.
Envy from Fullmetal Alchemist is a shapeshifter whose preferred form is rather ambiguous. Although they spend most of their time in an androgynous body, Envy has no issue changing into different genders and forms in order to give themselves the greatest advantage. Nothing about Envy's personality or powers is static. Envy chooses who they are and how they present to the world whenever they want.
Anime Can (And Should) Break Gender Stereotype 'Rules'
Characters that present in the opposite direction of their gender identity show audiences that gender has no specific look or personality. Individuals that present as stereotypically feminine don't have to behave in traditionally feminine ways, and the same goes for characters that present as masculine. Gender is not a strict set of rules that must be obediently followed.
Demon Slayer's Inosuke Hashibira definitely doesn't follow any rules about gender. It is repeatedly mentioned throughout the series that Inosuke has a very pretty and feminine face. Despite that, Inosuke is the opposite of femininity in every other way. He's loud, brash and extremely muscled. Even though there is a contrast between his appearance and his personality, Inosuke is still secure in his identity.
It's Okay to Be Unsure about Gender in Anime
Gender can be confusing. There's a lot of different aspects that go into gender identity that can be overwhelming. Even anime characters can be uncertain of their identity at times. These characters show viewers that it's okay to be confused. Confusion is just the beginning of understanding.
If someone were to ask Crona from Soul Eater if they were a boy or a girl, they would probably respond that they don't know how to deal with that question. Crona is indecisive about most questions that they have to make, especially if these questions relate to their identity. This is represented through their androgynous appearance, but as the series continues, Crona becomes more decisive. They eventually figure out the kind of person they want to be.
