—Anonymous
Moliere’s “Tartuffe” and “Life of a Sensuous Woman” by Ihara Saikaku are both great works of literature. These two texts drew me into the narrative and kept me hooked. Despite how long ago they were written I was still able to connect with these stories that allowed me to understand the ideas Moliere and Saikaku were likely trying to express.
Moliere’s use of humor was my favorite part of Tartuffe. The way it was used to criticize religion and the church by exposing their hypocrisy was a valiant move during the reformation period. Religion and hypocrisy are general ideas in the story that allows discussions to be formed from this text regardless of the time period. The idea of hypocrisy is very common and relatable. For example, it reminded me of a time when someone who I trusted betrayed me by going against their beliefs. When I saw the truth it was hard for others to see it. Writing that can connect with readers from generations after makes it a great work of literature. Moliere successfully presents his main idea in the end when Cleante who represents enlightenment makes the most stubborn character see the truth. This ending is powerful because it becomes clear that Moliere is embracing the enlightenment era.
Life of a Sensuous Woman is a powerful narrative about the roles women and men play during the Edo period in Japan. It has a rich cultural context that grasps readers’ attention. The narrative discusses the relationship between men and their lust for women. It is interesting to examine how a woman’s role was determined in this society. It relates to today’s society which continues to be divided by gender. I liked how this narrative conveyed emotion through the stories of the woman starting from her childhood up to her old age. Reading about a woman who had sex all her life due to social expectations creates a staggering reaction, especially to me as a woman. I felt sorrow, shock, and anger. It is important that a great work of literature can convey this type of emotion and connect to the modern world and can continue to do so in the future.
