|
This thesis analyzes the images of married couples from five of Tanizaki Junichiro’s novels from the perspective of the increasing “mature year” divorce rate in modern Japanese society. Chapter One deals with “Naomi,” which is a story about George and Naomi, a couple who meet each other and develop a complicated relationship. I argue that Tanizaki warns people that husbands who spoil their wives must face the consequences of their actions. Chapter Two is about “Manji(卍),” which analyzes the real life of the Kakiuchi couple and how they come into conflict with Tokumitsu Mitsuko. I try to uncover the meaning of their decision to commit suicide together and what “Mitsuko Kannon” means to them. In Chapter Three, I analyze “Tadekuumushi,” in which the Shiba couple cannot decide whether to divorce. I explore Shiba’s mental state when he finally decides to do so. I argue that this couple have been estranged from each other ever since they were married. Chapter Four deals with “Syunnkinnsyou,” in which Sasuke and Syunnkin have an intimate relationship and even children, yet they refuse to marry. I pay particular attention to the masochistic mind of Sasuke. Chapter Five is about “The Key,” which examines the delicate relationship and calculating behaviors of a “nominal” husband and wife. The couple read each other’s diaries, which leads to nonstop sexual struggles. In the final chapter, I conclude that the images of married couples chosen from these five novels can be understood in three ways: the broken relation, pursuit of the sensual beauty of one’s wife, and a search for the sexual harmony. Tanizaki’s portrayal of the married couple reflects the dark side of human beings. When there is no love between a couple or when they have different goals, it will lead to a series of doubts and crises. Tanizaki fearlessly shows his eagerness for a perfect woman and directly faces his deepest desire. He emphasizes the important of sex between married couples repeatedly. He believes only harmonious sex can lead a couple into a stable relationship. Interestingly, Tanizaki’s erotic novels may have relevance to modern society since his interest and works happen to correspond to the phenomenon of “mature year divorce” in Japan in recent years.
|