Kôshoku Gonin No Onna Analysis

During the Edo period, Japan divided their social class into a four-class system: samurai, farmers, artisans, and merchants. If one were to change his or her social status, the government will disapprove and will prevent such action. Laws and policies were very strict during the Tokugawa era. There were many restrictions such as having vast amount of wealth, trading with other countries, or even taking the law to their own hands. During the Edo era, if one were to break a law or commit a sin, then it could result in his or her death penalty. With men having complete dominance over everything, women had to obey men; from sons to husbands to fathers. Such society with a strict system and male dominance are depicted in the literary works
Most of the stories demonstrates women are strongly attracted to men, and that they would take action to fulfil this desire. Saikaku also demonstrates how relationships can only go so far until some sort of tragedy takes place that ends the character’s love affair. In Book One, Saikaku starts the scene with Seijuro enjoying himself in the pleasure quarters. The fun ends when Sejiuro’s father bursts in furiously and catches sight of Seijuro playing with courtesans. As the courtiers leave, Seijuro learns that “fickleness is the rule in pleasure houses, and human kindness is measured out in small change”(Saikaku). Here, it shows the sudden change of mood. Also, it demonstrates how men would often enjoy themselves in pleasure quarters when they have spare change and time. During the spring, Seijuro notices “When cherry trees bloom at Onoe, men’s wives bloom too with a new pride in their appearance, and pretty girls go strolling with their proud mothers, not so much to see the spring blossoms as to be seen themselves”(Saikaku). Here, it demonstrates how women voice is not heard in society, but only their beauty are able to attract other people’s attention. Later on, during Seijuro and Onatsu’s love affair, they become separated after someone catches them eloping. During their time apart, Onatsu commits a sin when she makes a selfish request at the Shrine of Izumo to protect Seijuro. The god of Murotsu says, “Your life, for which you care so little, will be a long one. Seijuro, whose life means so much to you, will soon come to the end of his days”(Saikkaku). Seijuro is coincidentally framed with stealing money, and for punishment, he is sentenced to death. Having learned of Seijuro’s death, Onatsu lives the rest of her life as a nun. With cruel punishments, Saikaku conveys how selfishness and crimes