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OVA series produced by AIC titled The Hakkenden is split into two parts, with the second part being titled Shinsh. 1999 saw the debut of the Shin Hakkenden television sequel series. The epic novel Nansu Satomi Hakkenden, which was written by Kyokutei Bakin during the later half of the Edo Period, serves as the inspiration for the anime. The work holds the title of being the longest novel in classic Japanese literature, having been written across 106 volumes. The Hakkenden is most well-known for its unconventional approach to animation, which consists of alternating between a number of different artistic approaches throughout the course of the series. In addition, the series is well-known for the extensive usage of symbolic images and themes throughout, which enables the series to blur the lines between animation and art. It is also known for bringing a contemporary viewpoint to a literary classic. This is due to the fact that it examines and reexamines archaic and morally ambiguous ideas such as feudal loyalty and devotion throughout the course of many of the conflicts that occur in the story. This is one of the reasons why it has gained such a reputation. The "THE" that appears at the beginning of the title is not only a translation formality; rather, it is an actual component of the title written in English. It is possible that the authors of the series opted to include it on purpose so as to intentionally give a sense of modernity.