Madman on the roof

• When did the Modern Period in Japanese Literature start?

  It started in the Meiji Period (1868-1912).
• What does "Modanizumer" refer to in Japanese literature?


  It refers to Modernism, an era of great changes in intellectual and artistic expressions.
• How did writers during the Modern Period in Japanese Literature change their approach?

  They explored new subjects, themes, and writing techniques that ordinary people could understand.
• What do the masks in drama symbolize?

  They symbolize opposing themes in literature, theater, and song.
• Who are Melpomene and Thalia in relation to drama?

  Melpomene is the Muse of Tragedy, and Thalia is the Muse of Comedy.
• What is the birth date of Hiroshi Kikuchi?


  December 26, 1888.
• What is Hiroshi Kikuchi known for?

  He is known for his contributions to Japanese literature and his influence on customs and traditions.
• What themes does Hiroshi Kikuchi focus on in his literary pieces?

  He focuses on issues in society, gender, money, and morals.
• What literary magazine did Kikuchi establish in 1923?

  Bungei shunju.
• What prestigious literary awards did Kikuchi set up through his magazine?

  The Akutagawa and Naoki prizes.
• What was Kikuchi's role in the Daiei Motion Picture Company?


  He was the head of the company.
• What is the setting of "Madman on the Roof" by Kikuchi Kan?

  Meiji, in the Thirties, on an island off the coast of Sanuki of the Inland Sea.
• Who is Batsushima Yoshitaro in "Madman on the Roof"?


  He is the Madman, 24 years of age.
• What are the main characters in "Madman on the Roof"?

  • Batsushima Yoshitaro (The Madman, 24 years old)
  • Suejiro (his younger brother, 17 years old)
  • Gisuke (his father)
  • Oyoshi (his mother)
  • Tosaku (a neighbor)
  • Kichiji (a servant, 20 years old)
  • Priestess (about 50 years old)
• What happens in the exposition of "Madman on the Roof"?

  Yoshitaro was sitting on the roof, and Gisuke asked Kichiji to bring him down.
• What did Gisuke and Kichiji believe about Yoshitaro's condition?

  They thought he was under the influence of evil spirits.
• What did Gisuke think was affecting Yoshitaro?

  He thought it was a monkey-spirit because of an incident with monkeys at Yoshitaro's birth.
• What did the Priestess do for Yoshitaro?

  She prayed for him and suggested hanging him up on a tree branch to purify him.
• What revelation did Suejiro make about the priestess?

  He revealed that the priestess was a fraud who wanted money.
• What was the resolution of "Madman on the Roof"?

  Suejiro justified his brother's condition, and their parents accepted the truth about Yoshitaro.
• What are the themes of "Madman on the Roof"?

  • A madman who enjoys the beauty of a sunset is better than a sane man who doesn't.
  • Love your family and understand their feelings.
  • Take responsibility for your loved ones.
  • Be compassionate with the feelings of others.
• How does the theme of family love manifest in "Madman on the Roof"?

  Brotherly love prevailed and united the family despite Yoshitaro's madness.