Heroic Narratives in Chinese social media: A Case Study of Bilibili

Rong Xiao; Weining Huang

Vol-10,Issue-1,January - February 2025

Author: Rong Xiao, Weining Huang

Keywords: Narrative, Social Media, Heroic Narratives, Bilibili

Abstract: Heroes embody the essence of national spirit and serve as the catalysts for national rejuvenation. Narratives play a pivotal role in conveying heroic tales and upholding the ethos of heroism. While traditionally set in the domain of mainstream media, the responsibility of crafting and disseminating heroic narratives has increasingly shifted to social media in response to societal evolution. This study examines the innovative approaches to heroic narratives on the Chinese social media platform Bilibili. It highlights how Bilibili has transformed traditional heroic storytelling by adopting concise and concentrated narrative modes, featuring accessible and approachable narrative characters, and fostering diverse and dynamic narrative voices. These innovations underscore Bilibili’s role as a pioneering platform for re-imagining heroic storytelling in contemporary social contexts and digital environments.

Article Info: Received: 26 Dec 2024; Received in revised form: 25 Jan 2025; Accepted: 30 Jan 2025; Available online: 22 Feb 2025

DOI: 10.22161/ijels.101.25