Futanari

Futánari is a term used in Japanese to describe a fictional trope involving a character who possesses both male and female physical characteristics. This concept is often depicted in anime, manga, and other forms of Japanese media.

In these depictions, futánari characters typically exhibit both masculine and feminine physical attributes, such as having a male body with female secondary sex characteristics or possessing both male genitalia and breasts. The visual representation of futánari characters can vary widely, from subtle hints to more overt expressions of a character's androgyny.

The futánari trope originated in pre-modern Japanese art and literature, where it was often used to represent androgynous or hermaphroditic deities. In modern times, the concept has become a staple in certain genres of adult only media in Japan, where futánari characters are often depicted as erotic or fantasy figures.

The cultural significance of futánari in contemporary Japanese media is complex and multifaceted, reflecting and shaping societal attitudes towards sex, gender and identity. Many scholars have analyzed the futánari trope as a reflection of cultural anxieties and desires.

The depiction of futánari characters can also be seen as a commentary on the social and cultural norms surrounding masculinity and femininity in Japan. Critics have argued that the futánari trope reinforces traditional notions of femininity as passive and virginal, while reinforcing unjust sexual stereotypes of men.

It's worth noting that futánari has gained popularity outside of Japan through online communities and fan-generated content, particularly within western language fan communities.

In summary, the futánari trope has a distinct cultural significance in Japanese media, reflecting and shaping societal attitudes towards sex, gender and identity. Its intricate meanings can be rooted in pre-modern times while being impacted by changing societal norms with regards to the current times.