4. Knight of the Ribbon (1967)

A masterpiece that opened up new horizons in animation for girls

The TV animation “Knight of the Ribbon,” created by Osamu Tezuka and first broadcast in 1967, is a masterpiece that had a profound influence on later anime for girls. The story of Sapphire, the princess of Silverland, who was born with a male heart as a result of an angel's trick, and who faces difficulties in order to save her country as a prince, captured the hearts of many girls.

The original “battle heroine”

The Knight of the Ribbon” is known as the work that created the then-novel image of a ‘battle heroine’ who fights against evil. Sapphire fights enemies and protects the peace of her country with her sword and magic. Her brave and dignified appearance has been inherited by many later battle heroines, including those in the “Sailor Moon” and “Pretty Cure” series.

Themes that are also relevant to today's society

It is also important to note that “Knight of the Ribbon” contains themes such as gender and sexual diversity that are also important in today's society. The story of Sapphire, who was born with a male heart and is troubled by her identity, but accepts her destiny and lives strongly, offers many suggestions for us today.