Maho is a term used in Japanese culture that originated from the anime and manga genre. It refers to a magical girl or a magical girl story. The term combines the Japanese word "mahou" (meaning "magic") and "shoujo" (meaning "girl"). Maho is often associated with a specific subgenre of anime and manga, aimed primarily at young girls, where the protagonist possesses magical powers or transforms into a super-powered version of themselves to battle evil forces.
In these stories, the central character, typically a young girl, receives magical abilities or is chosen as a guardian of justice. She undergoes a transformation, dons a distinctive costume, and uses her magical powers to fight against villains and protect others. These magical girls often possess a strong sense of justice and represent themes of friendship, courage, and love.
Maho stories often revolve around a central narrative arc with episodic plotlines, exploring the character's growth, relationships, and responsibilities. The genre gained popularity internationally with the success of franchises like Sailor Moon and Cardcaptor Sakura.
The term "maho" can also refer to the characteristics, themes, aesthetics, and storytelling tropes commonly found in magical girl stories, regardless of specific media format. The magical girl genre has undergone various permutations, adaptations, and subversions over the years, contributing to its enduring impact on popular culture.
