FEMININE DESTINIES: GENDER AND SEXUALITY IN TORIKAEBAYA MONOGATARI

Abstract

This paper is a study of Ima Torikaebaya,the extant version of the Heian monogatari Torikaebaya Monogatari. It seeks to elucidate and compare the factors that shape the experiences of feminine characters in the text –the Head of Attendants, the Major Captain, and Yon no Kimi. To do so, it will survey premodern texts such as Mumyôzôshi and Genji Monogatari, and consider the ways in which notions regarding gender, anatomy and sex were perceived and formed. My interpretation of Ima Torikaebayabased on the abovementioned texts suggests that feminine destinies are heavily limited by masculine goals, both within and without the tale. However, I also find Ima Torikaebayaitselfinterrogates the category of ideal destinies for women by revealing the unhappiness overshadowed by the attainment of political and economic ascendancy for their family units.