Asal Fallahnejad

This article explores the rich tapestry of queer identities and gender variance woven throughout global mythological traditions. Through a queer historiographical lens, this study examines five foundational myths from diverse cultural contexts—Greco-Roman, Norse, Hindu, Mesopotamian, and Native American—demonstrating how ancient civilizations recognized, honored, and derived power from gender non-conforming identities. The analysis foregrounds the concepts of liminality and transcendence as analytical frameworks for understanding how these mythic narratives functioned both as spiritual teachings and as social acknowledgments of the spectrum of human identity. By humanizing these ancient stories and situating them within their cultural matrices, this article argues that contemporary LGBTQ+ communities possess deep ancestral roots stretching back to humanity's earliest spiritual expressions. The article concludes that reclaiming these myths is not merely an academic exercise but an act of cultural reclamation and empowerment.

In an era marked by global crises such as climate migrations and nationalist deportations, the human need for rootedness—articulated by Simone Weil as active participation in communal life—gains renewed urgency. This article examines video games as innovative tools for ethical place-making in education, conceptualizing "digital roots" as virtual spaces that foster belonging, imagination, and moral responsibility. Drawing on Weil's philosophy, alongside Heidegger's Dasein (being-in-the-world), indigenous interconnectedness, and Bildung's holistic development, we argue that games redefine place in the digital age as a relational nexus of ethics and transformation.

This article critically examines Silent Hill F, focusing on its notable deficiencies in narrative depth, character development, and horror design. From a philosophical and storytelling perspective, the game lacks meaningful thematic exploration and presents a weak, fragmented storyline. The protagonist’s unexplained aggression and familial estrangement remain an enigma, undermining emotional engagement. Additionally, the enemies’ impersonal and repetitive nature fails to evoke genuine psychological horror, reducing the experience to superficial fear. Technical shortcomings in enemy animation further detract from the atmosphere, as the use of mannequin-like models creates a dissonance between gameplay mechanics and narrative intent. Moreover, the game’s narrative approach raises concerns about cultural representation, as it appears to neglect the richness of Japanese culture it ostensibly draws from. This study highlights how these combined factors result in a game that falls short both as a horror experience and as a culturally sensitive narrative.

This report critically examines Ghost of Yōtei, the upcoming video game, through the lens of its historical and cultural representations. Focusing on elements such as samurai masks, wolf symbolism, the shamisen, the chonmage hairstyle, the portrayal of an Ainu woman with lip tattoos, and the protagonist Atsu as an onna-bugeisha, this analysis delves into the game's engagement with Japanese history and folklore. By assessing the accuracy, symbolic resonance, and narrative integration of these elements, the report aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of Ghost of Yōtei's potential cultural impact and its contribution to the ongoing dialogue surrounding historical fidelity in popular media.

This article explores the multifaceted role of the Shogun in the video game "Assassin's Creed Shadows," set in the tumultuous late Sengoku period of Japan. It delves into the historical significance of the Shogunate, particularly the decline of the Ashikaga Shogunate leading up to the game's 1579 setting. The analysis focuses on the portrayal of the last Ashikaga Shogun, Ashikaga Yoshiaki, as the clandestine leader of the shadowy Shinbakufu organization and his pivotal role as a central antagonist driving the narrative. The article further examines Yoshiaki's interactions with the dual protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, highlighting the personal vendetta and shifting allegiances that shape their confrontations. It also details how the Shogun and the Shinbakufu influence gameplay mechanics and the overarching storyline, from quest objectives to the faction system. By contrasting the game's narrative with historical accounts and comparing it to other media like "Shogun," the article discusses the balance between historical authenticity and creative license in the game's depiction. Finally, it explores the intriguing connections between Yoshiaki's role and the established lore of the Assassin's Creed universe, particularly the conflict between Assassins and Templars.

This paper examines the significance of spring within Japanese philosophy, focusing on the themes of renewal, impermanence, and the deep connection between humanity and nature. The arrival of spring, marked by the ephemeral beauty of cherry blossoms (sakura), serves as a poignant reminder of the concept of "mono no aware," which emphasizes the appreciation of transience and the fleeting moments of beauty in life. Through an exploration of traditional practices such as Hanami (flower viewing) and the philosophical reflections of notable figures like Matsuo Bashō and Kitarō Nishida, this study highlights how spring inspires a sense of harmony and mindfulness in Japanese culture. Additionally, the paper discusses the role of seasonal change in shaping aesthetic sensibilities and ethical considerations, illustrating how the cyclical nature of life is celebrated and embraced. Ultimately, this exploration reveals that spring is not merely a season in Japan but a profound philosophical lens through which individuals can engage with the world, fostering a deeper understanding of existence and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

Nowruz, meaning “new day” in Persian, is an ancient celebration marking the arrival of spring at the vernal equinox. Far more than a mere commencement of a new year, this tradition, with its origins stretching back over three millennia to the era of Zoroastrianism, embodies a profound reverence for life, rebirth, and the perennial triumph of light over darkness. Celebrated by diverse ethno-linguistic and cultural communities across a wide geographical expanse, Nowruz presents a rich tapestry of visual, auditory, and ritualistic elements. Its aesthetics, encompassing the meticulously arranged Haft-Seen table, the vibrant hues of traditional clothing, the resonating sounds of celebratory music, and the symbolic acts of fire jumping and communal feasting, are deeply intertwined with the foundational myths that have shaped this enduring tradition. This report aims to explore the intricate relationship between these underlying mythological narratives and the rich ceremonial aesthetics of Nowruz, illustrating how these myths are visually, audibly, and symbolically represented in contemporary practices across various cultures.

This article explores the enduring influence of wabi-sabi, a traditional Japanese aesthetic and philosophical concept rooted in the acceptance of imperfection, transience, and simplicity, on the lifestyles and mental well-being of contemporary Japanese youth. Originating in Zen Buddhism, wabi-sabi celebrates the beauty of the incomplete, impermanent, and asymmetrical, offering a counter-narrative to modern society’s obsession with perfection, consumerism, and digital permanence. Through qualitative interviews and cultural analysis, this study examines how young Japanese individuals reinterpret wabi-sabi principles—such as kanso (simplicity), fukinsei (asymmetry), and shibumi (understated elegance)—to navigate pressures linked to social media aesthetics, workplace stress, and environmental concerns. The findings reveal that wabi-sabi serves as both a cultural anchor and a coping mechanism, fostering mindfulness, sustainable consumption, and resilience in the face of societal expectations. For instance, minimalist living trends (dan-sha-ri) and the revival of handcrafted goods reflect wabi-sabi’s emphasis on authenticity over mass-produced perfection. Simultaneously, digital detox practices and the popularity of “imperfect” self-presentation on platforms like Instagram signal a rejection of curated perfectionism. However, tensions persist as globalization and technological advancements challenge traditional values, creating a hybrid modernity where wabi-sabi coexists with capitalist efficiency. By bridging historical philosophy and contemporary lived experience, this article argues that wabi-sabi offers a transformative framework for addressing mental health crises, environmental degradation, and cultural identity among Japan’s youth. It concludes with implications for design, education, and policy, advocating for the integration of wabi-sabi principles into initiatives promoting holistic well-being and ecological stewardship in an increasingly fragmented world.

In the ever-evolving landscape of video game development, mythology serves as a rich source of inspiration, providing developers with a wellspring of narratives, characters, and themes that resonate with players. This article, "Gaming the Gods: How Mythology Inspires Game Development," explores the intricate relationship between ancient myths and contemporary gaming. By examining various titles that draw upon mythological elements—from the pantheons of Greek and Norse mythology to the folklore of diverse cultures—we uncover how these stories enhance gameplay, deepen character development, and create immersive worlds. The article also discusses the challenges and responsibilities developers face when adapting these age-old tales, including cultural sensitivity and authenticity. Through case studies of popular games, we illustrate how mythology not only enriches storytelling but also fosters a deeper connection between players and the narratives they engage with. Ultimately, this exploration highlights the enduring power of myth in shaping the future of interactive entertainment, inviting both players and creators to embark on epic journeys through the realms of legend and lore.

This article explores the intricate relationship between evil and the mind through the lens of Middle Eastern philosophy, particularly focusing on the myth of Zahhak from Persian literature. It examines how Zahhak's transformation from a noble figure to a tyrant illustrates the interplay between internal desires and external influences in the manifestation of evil. By analyzing the philosophical implications of free will, moral responsibility, and the societal factors that shape ethical decision-making, the article highlights the complexities of human behavior and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals. Ultimately, it serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the importance of self-awareness in navigating the moral landscape of contemporary society.

This article offers a cross-cultural analysis of two enigmatic figures from Indo-European mythologies: Tīrka Šavār, a lesser-known Persian omen of death or misfortune, and the Dullahan, Ireland’s iconic headless horseman. Both entities serve as harbingers of fate, embodying their cultures’ anxieties about mortality, the unknown, and the thin veil between the human and supernatural realms. Through comparative methodology, this study explores how these myths reflect distinct cultural values—Persian narratives often intertwine destiny with moral and cosmic order (aša), while Irish lore emphasizes the inevitability of death and the capriciousness of the Otherworld. The analysis reveals striking parallels: both figures act as liminal beings, mediating between life and death, and their appearances are marked by omens (e.g., the Dullahan’s lantern, Tīrka Šavār’s symbolic manifestations). Yet their differences are equally telling: Tīrka Šavār’s role in Persian cosmology often ties to Zoroastrian dualism, where moral choices influence fate, whereas the Dullahan operates within a Celtic framework of inescapable doom. By situating these myths within their historical and religious contexts, this article illuminates how ancient societies grappled with existential fears and conceptualized the supernatural.

This paper explores the enduring influence of Ja-Ha-Kyu (序破急), a traditional aesthetic and structural principle derived from Japanese arts like Noh theatre, on contemporary urban life in Japan. Ja-Ha-Kyu, which translates roughly to "beginning, break, and rapid," provides a framework for understanding the dynamic pacing and evolving experiences within Japanese cities. This study examines how the Ja-Ha-Kyu concept manifests in various aspects of urban living, including the design of public spaces, the rhythm of daily routines, and the evolving nature of cultural trends. By analyzing these elements, the paper argues that Ja-Ha-Kyu offers a valuable lens through which to interpret the unique character and adaptable nature of Japan's urban lifestyle, revealing a deep connection between traditional aesthetics and modern urban experiences. Furthermore, this research considers how the principles of Ja-Ha-Kyu contribute to the resilience and cultural identity of Japanese cities in the face of globalization and rapid social change.

This thesis examines the psychological effects of body-awareness techniques in dance based on Anna Halprin's theories. As a pioneer of dance therapy and body awareness, Halprin believes that dance can be an effective tool to enhance self-awareness, reduce stress, and improve mental health. This research explores various body-awareness techniques, including breathing exercises, free movements, movement meditation, and bodily signal awareness. The study demonstrates that these techniques can help dancers connect with their emotions and physical tensions, leading to enhanced mental health and quality of life. Furthermore, the thesis investigates the social and cultural impacts of dance as a group activity, emphasizing its role in strengthening social connections and fostering empathy. The findings suggest that body-awareness techniques not only contribute to self-awareness and mental health but also serve as a powerful tool for coping with psychological and emotional challenges in daily life. Finally, the thesis highlights the importance of incorporating body-awareness techniques into dance educational and therapeutic programs and offers suggestions for future research in this field.

This study examines the pursuit of immortality through a comparative analysis of the Mesopotamian Epic of Gilgamesh and Hindu mythology centered on Vishnu, the preserver god. Employing a literary and philosophical approach, the paper contrasts Gilgamesh’s personal, mortal-driven quest with Vishnu’s cosmic, eternal existence. In Gilgamesh, the semi-divine king seeks eternal life after his companion Enkidu’s death, only to confront the inevitability of mortality, reflecting a Mesopotamian view of death as a divine boundary. Conversely, Vishnu embodies immortality as an intrinsic attribute, manifested through avatars like Krishna, aligning with Hindu cosmology’s cyclical view of existence and the eternal soul. The analysis reveals distinct cultural frameworks: Gilgamesh’s linear struggle for individual legacy versus Vishnu’s timeless duty to universal order. Results highlight that Gilgamesh’s journey ends in acceptance of human limits, finding meaning in earthly achievements, while Vishnu’s narrative offers transcendence through reincarnation and cosmic harmony. The study concludes that these contrasting perspectives—personal desperation versus divine continuity—mirror Mesopotamian pragmatism and Hindu metaphysics, respectively, yet both resonate with humanity’s universal longing to transcend death. This comparison underscores that the quest for immortality is less about evading mortality than redefining its significance across cultural and philosophical landscapes.