芥川竜之介『魔術』論

Abstract

This work is a children’s story published in the children’s magazine “Red Bird” in January 1920.It is the fable which the story gives a desire for a moment, and admonishes the greed to children through failure.The book is based on the Indian magician Hassan Kang and his disciple Misra, and uses mysterious magic throughout, inviting the reader into the world of magic and creating an even more mysterious and mystical atmosphere.Akutagawa has created the character of Mr. Misra as a patriotic man who lives a simple life and is working for the independence of India. “I” wanted to learn witchcraft from Mr. Misra, but after taking a carta with my friend, I became greedy for money, and not only for gold coins, but also for my friend’s property.Such “I,” Misra, regret that you are not qualified to learn the magic of Hassan Kang.<If you want to use my magic, you must give up greed. You are not trained enough to do that,> Misra, you make me give up.In short, “I” failed one step before learning the magic of Hassan Kang. The author Akutagawa’s thought is clear when we consider Mithra, who has abandoned self-interest and devotes herself to the service of her country. He yearns for an honest, human life, free from greed. Akutagawa’s desire for a humanism without greed is projected in “Magic”.