— Kevin Lliguichushca
Hello,
I agree with German in that, The Love Suicides at Amijima seems to have a theme of power. Just like the other novels we have read, especially the narrative of Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl. Koharu and Jacobs are put in positions to not succeed in life and are looked as less in their respected society.
It’s sad to see that women are treated so poorly in every culture, especially if they don’t come from a place of wealth or power. Koharu had to settle for being a prostitute which was seen as the bottom of the hierarchy. She was stuck there, having to work for someone who didn’t respect her and at the same time, she fell in love with someone who wasn’t able to get her out of her situation. But also, with someone who was married and had kids.
I do agree with Sanja in the fact that Koharu was treated unfairly. It takes two people to have a knowing affair, I’m not trying to justify her actions but Jihei is in the wrong as well. But I feel like Jhei is handling this situation like the typical stubborn guy. He doesn’t want to see his wrongs and looks for someone to blame. Unfortunately, I feel like this is a popular male trait in which we don’t want to be viewed from a negative perspective and we do whatever we can to justify ourselves.
Jihei mentions that “for two whole years I’ve been bewitched by this rotten she-fox” so he clearly has been unfaithful for quite some time. He seems to be hurt, but deep down I believe Koharu has feelings for him too. We will just have to wait for how this plays out.
I believe that Jihei’s brother will keep the letter a secret, because prior to reading this play. I searched for Samurai soldiers during the Edo period and I found out that they lived by a strict code of conduct. And if they were defeating or disgraced, they would actually commit suicide. But in the letter by Kamiya, I believe she knows about the unfair and or is having one herself and is ok with her husband finding someone else.
