미우라 아야코 『시오카리 고개』 론 - 죄의 자각과 내면의 변화 -

Abstract

This article investigates the protagonist’s awareness of guilt and the process of inner change depicted in Shiokari Pass, before turning to an analysis of the author’s own awareness of guilt and inner change as portrayed in Michi-ariki. In Shiokari Pass, Nobuo Nagano is initially prejudiced against Christianity, but, following his encounter with Shun’u Nakamura, develops an awareness of universal sin, which entails that all humans are guilty. Subsequently, through meeting Kazuma Iki, he comes to deeply recognise his own sin. After undergoing profound self-despair, the protagonist experiences an inner transformation and ultimately accepts sublime sacrifice. Further, in Michi-ariki, the author recounts that she initially lacked life goals or will but gains a will to live after meeting Tadashi Maekawa. Later, through her encounter with her former fiancé, Nishinaka, the work depicts the process whereby she becomes aware of her own sinfulness and embarks on a journey towards repentance. Thus, the sacrificial act by Nobuo Nagano, the protagonist of Shiokari Pass, cannot be adequately understood as a mere surface action. It is essential to consider both the process of Nagano’s inner change and the author Ayako Miura’s own life struggles, which brought about a change in her perspective and ultimately led her to portray such a character.