黄表紙『質流思外幸』『質流人行末』を中心にみる 子供の日常と非日常少考

Abstract

In order to analyze the depiction of children's daily and exceptional experiences, this study centers on Jippensya-ikku's Kibyosi a) "Sichino-nagare-mokkenosaiwai" and b) "Sichino-nagare- hitonoyukusue". Initially, the investigation sought to ascertain the perception of children's existence in routine circumstances. Consequently, while the paternal love depicted in "Ukiyoburo" may exhibit greater intensity as the father endeavors to bathe his child in a pubic bath, the father in "Mokkenosaiwai Shigaiyuki" demonstrates consistent efforts in calming his child's nocturnal distress within the realm of their daily existence. This demonstrates his steadfast affection for his offspring. The success or failure of "Gesaku" hinges upon its ability to effectively integrate the theme of children with both mundane and extraordinary circumstances, as well as its capacity to generate intriguing, humorous, and distinctive situations. Undoubtedly, the narrative depicting a parent and child who inadvertently find themselves entangled in the world of a brothel would have undoubtedly captivated and amused readers. When the filter of literary embellishment is eliminated, the true circumstances of the era are revealed. In essence, the concept of a father exchanging his daughter for monetary gain is rooted in the distressing actuality of the circumstances faced by destitute families. Specifically, it pertains to the distressing practice of selling or “pawning” young girls, typically between the ages of seven and eight, into brothels where they are compelled to serve as apprentice prostitutes. In essence, the comedic portrayal of a destitute family facing a tragic circumstance in "Gesaku" can be understood as a consequence of their association with a merchant household and their involvement in the sex trade, thereby giving rise to the peculiar concept of “pawning.”