“Though her father too resented Genji’s other affairs, he forgot his annoyance when Genji was here beside him, and no service seemed too great or too small. As Genji prepared to leave for court the next day, the minister looked in upon him, bringing a famous belt for him to wear with his court dress, straightening his train, as much as helping him into his shoes. One almost felt something pathetic in this eagerness.” (Beneath the Autumn Leaves, Pg 125)
I chose this quote because it is a great example of Genji’s influence and likability. Despite Genji’s numerous affairs, his wife’s father still admires him and is willing to go great lengths to please Genji. This quote also demonstrates the norms surrounding marriage at this time in Japan. Genji continuously mistreats his wife by having affairs and becoming emotionally attached to other women, yet he does not understand why his wife has grown distant to him. Genji blames his wife for acting coldly towards him while refusing to acknowledge his fault in the matter. His actions are especially displeasing to his wife because she is of high rank and is accustomed to being treated with admiration. This shows how extreme Genji’s pride is and his point of view that he can do no wrong.
Why do you think Genji’s father-in-law is willing to ignore Genji’s mistreatement of his daughter?
