From Words to Screen: Analyzing Animation Adaptation Shifts in Kalila and Demna

Abstract

Adapting ancient Persian literature, which is rich in narratives typically intended for adult audiences, into animations for children presents unique challenges and opportunities. This descriptive and qualitative study analyzes the adaptation shifts in the animated version of the ancient Persian literary work Kalila and Demna, specifically focusing on the tale of The Rabbit Who Caused the Lion to Perish by Deception. By identifying these shifts, the research contributes to understanding intersemiotic translation and the complexities involved in making ancient narratives accessible and engaging for younger audiences. Using Perdikaki’s (2016) framework of narrative units—plot structure, narrative techniques, characterization, and setting—this study systematically examines the descriptive and comparative components of the audiovisual material. The findings reveal that the animated adaptation employs notable modulations and modifications in the narrative units while rarely adding or omitting any elements from the original story. Importantly, these shifts enhance the visual storytelling aspect of the animation, making it more engaging and accessible for contemporary audiences while preserving the original moral lessons and core messages. In conclusion, this paper calls for further research on animated adaptations in this area of adaptation studies