Avatar: The Last Airbender
By Brayden Wiseman
(an exhibit of)
Avatar: The Last Airbender
"Avatar: The Last Airbender" is an animated television series set in a world where some people can manipulate the elements—water, earth, fire, and air—through a practice known as bending. The story follows Aang, the last surviving Airbender and the Avatar, a being capable of mastering all four elements and maintaining balance in the world. Aang, at the story's opening, wakes from a hundred year slumber to discover that in his absence, the Fire Nation wrought a war of conquest. Teaming up with his friends from the Southern Water Tribe, Katara and Sokka, Aang embarks on a quest to master the four elements, confront the tyrannical Fire Nation, and bring peace to the war-torn world.
The Legend of Korra
"The Legend of Korra" is the sequel to "Avatar: The Last Airbender," set in a world that has evolved with new technological advancements and a different Avatar. Unlike Aang, Korra operates within a rapidly changing society with emerging challenges, including anti-bending sentiments and a group known as the Equalists, led by the charismatic Amon, who seeks to eliminate bending and elevate nonbenders' social status.
Critical Reception
"Avatar: The Last Airbender" released to widespread critical acclaim. Critics hailed the show's handling of mature themes and its balancing of humor and emotion. Additionally, the show is generally considered to be one of the greatest pieces of character development in animated media. The character arcs of Aang, Zuko, Sokka, Katara, and other characters elevate Avatar as more than a children's series.
"The Legend of Korra," contrary to its predecessor, received a decent amount of criticism from critics and fans of the universe. Despite improved animation and visuals, Korra leaves much to be desired in the form of character work and writing. Regardless, Korra serves as a solid continuation of the world first introduced by Avatar.