Watch the film "Lover's Exile" which is in Japanese with English subtitles and is available for viewing in the Kennedy Library on the second floor. The film is of a Bunraku play which is a love suicide.

Write a paper (3-5 typewritten pages) which includes two sections: A. a brief summary of the plot of the play and B. answers the following questions:

1. What is the moral of the story for the audience?

2. What is the giri-ninjo conflict in the play?

3. How do the puppets express feelings of erotic and filial love?

4. What is the role of the individual in society and relationship to the family as shown in the story?

5. Why must the lovers commit suicide?

6. What are the significant symbolic elements in the play? Those actions, gestures, events that mark changes in the story or emphasize important decisions. What significance do they hold for the story?

Remember, the course is focusing on the way in which social values and social structure are shown and reinforced in the cultural products of society. Be sure to define terms, give examples and be explicit in answering the questions.  Clearly indicate each of the sections and each of the questions in your paper.

Due date:  Tuesday May 26, 2009

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