This novel tells the story of a young woman's life in feudal Japan. Ming-Y is born into a poor family and is sold to a wealthy merchant as a child bride. She grows up in a household where she is mistreated by her husband and his mother, but finds solace in her relationships with the merchant's daughter and a Buddhist priest. As Ming-Y navigates the complexities of her life, she must confront the societal norms that govern her world. The novel explores themes of love, loyalty, and survival in a patriarchal society where women have limited agency. Through Ming-Y's story, the novel provides a glimpse into the lives of women in feudal Japan, highlighting their struggles and resilience in the face of oppression.
By Lafcadio Hearn · First published 1898 · Genre: Romance, Fantasy, Historical Fiction