Mitigating Criticism through Digital Irony: A Computer-Mediated Discourse Analysis of the Spy X Family Manga Comment Section on Shonen Jump+

Abstract

The move from print to digital manga has made new interactive spaces, like comment sections. In these anonymous spaces, criticizing the plot often results in Face-Threatening Acts (FTA). This research investigates the utilization of irony by Japanese manga readers to counteract criticism. We integrate Computer-Mediated Discourse Analysis (CMDA) with Brown and Levinson’s Politeness Theory to analyze orthographic manipulation and the performativity of yakuwarigo, a stylized role-playing language employed to denote character types in fiction. Our data was taken from the 100 best comments from Chapters 130 of Spy x Family on Shonen Jump+. The results show that readers don't like to be directly criticized. Instead, they show their displeasure by changing the spelling and using fake yakuwarigo. This serves two purposes: it is off-record politeness to make comments about creators less harsh and positive politeness to strengthen the fandom's   solidarity. Consequently, our research indicates that yakuwarigo has transitioned from a fictional character trait to a "pragmatic mask" for social negotiation in reality. Additionally, our research elucidates the mechanisms by which online communities alleviate verbal aggression and enhance cultural cohesion, thereby cultivating a peaceful and inclusive digital ecosystem (SDG 16).