Progressive Traditions: An Illustrated Study of Plot Repetition in Traditional Japanese Theatre

This monograph with an accompanying CD-ROM explores through plot repetition the relationships between three genres of traditional Japanese theatre, no, kabuki and ningyo-joruri, with a focus on plays depicting the final, fugitive years of Minamoto no Yoshitsune. First, the theoretical background to the concept of plot repetition is discussed and the theme of Yoshitsune’s downfall is introduced. The next and main section analyses the treatment of the Funa Benkei and Ataka/Kanjincho plots in the three genres, with reference to their historical development and contemporary performance. The CD-ROM contains video clips, photographs and nishiki-e prints from productions in each genre to illustrate how the plots are presented on stage.