I chose this Japanese art of a snake with the head of a woman because it contributes to the theme of a woman’s beauty being used as a curtain to hide the inner darkness and evil within. In the short story, “Bewitched,” page 644 says, “That devil has put you under a spell because you are good looking… You have been bewitched by the beauty of temporary abode of that serpent. You must develop a more manly, a more determined spirit…You must never yield to temptations of passion and lust.” Manago being described as a serpent reminds me of this artwork because it depicts a beautiful Japanese woman’s face, however, the body of a snake represents the devil and evilness just like in the story. Looks are deceiving and a pretty woman is always known for using her looks as a means of charming one to get her way. Men are known to be easy manipulated by woman and motivated by lust. This will serve as a life lesson to Toyo-o and I’m sure he won’t be fooled by someone’s charm and beauty the next time he meets them.
This is a great image! I think that women and snakes have been connected in a variety of ways throughout the centuries. Sexist ideas about women being devious or cunning or dangerously seductive like a serpent seem to cross cultural and historic divides.
This is a really interesting depiction of the theme of the story. I really like how you described the theme of the text as portraying a woman’s beauty as just a curtain to hide the evil within, well put. This is a very prevalent theme in the story, as the means by which Toyo-o is bewitched is by Manago’s significant beauty.
I completely agree that men have been manipulated throughout the history by beauty, and yes Toyo-o will definitely learn a lesson as well as the readers of this story.
I agree with your image of the snake representing Manago in Bewitched. I feel as that she was very manipulative with Toyo-o and she had devilish characteristics. Toyo-o will need to learn that since he is handsome people will manipulate him and he needs to be reminded of the devil’s powers.
I love the piece of art you chose it really shows how women use their beauty as a weapon towards men.