The Love Suicides at Sonezaki: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Love Suicides at Sonezaki" is a poignant narrative that centers around themes of love, honor, and sacrifice, particularly through the lives of its major characters. Gihei is introduced as a wealthy man who desires the company of O Hatsu, a renowned geisha, but is ultimately rejected by her. O Hatsu’s heartfelt affection lies with Tokubei, a poor young man who refuses to compromise his values by marrying an heiress. In a tragic turn of events, O Hatsu takes her own life to protect Tokubei's honor from the malicious intentions of his friend, Kuheiji, who seeks to exploit her. Tokubei, devastated by O Hatsu’s fate and bound by his principles, also chooses suicide, culminating in a tragic ending that underscores the devastating consequences of social pressures and betrayal. Kyuemon, Tokubei's uncle, represents a voice of misguided authority, attempting to secure a better future for his nephew without realizing the dark machinations of Kuheiji, who ultimately drives the narrative towards its tragic conclusion. This exploration of character dynamics reveals deep cultural implications surrounding honor, love, and societal expectations in historical Japan.
The Love Suicides at Sonezaki: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Chikamatsu Monzaemon
Genre: Play
Locale: Osaka, Japan
Plot: Love
Time: Eighteenth century
Gihei, a wealthy Japanese man from the country who wants to spend an evening in Osaka with O Hatsu, a famous geisha; she refuses him. Later, he abducts her for a while.
OHatsu, a famous geisha, in love with a poor young man. To save the honor of Tokubei, she commits suicide, so that his traitorous friend cannot use her lover's money to ransom her.
Tokubei, a poor young man in love with O Hatsu. He refuses to marry an heiress, but he lends the dowry money to his friend, who refuses to return it so that it can be returned to the family of the girl Tokubei refuses to marry. To save his honor, Tokubei commits suicide, as does his beloved O Hatsu.
Kyuemon, Tokubei's uncle and employer. He tries to arrange Tokubei's marriage with an heiress. Too late, he learns of his nephew's friend's evil ways. When he finds his nephew, Tokubei already has committed suicide.
Kuheiji, Tokubei's evil friend. In addition to taking the young man's money, Kuheiji plots to ransom O Hatsu and keep her for himself. His plan fails when she dies.