Karaito sōshi: a tale of optimism and good fortune
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Abstract
Karaito sōshi is a tale that falls within a genre of stories from 14th century Japan known as otogi-zōshi, or ‘companion tales’. It was included in the Edo period (1603-1867) anthology, Otogi-bunko, as an example of a late medieval Heike monogatari (13th century) reception text, and was advertised as an educational reading for new brides. The transitional nature of Karaito sōshi as a Muromachi period work is brought to light when placed next to the tales of Shizuka and Giō that also act as Heike reception texts, and also existed during the Muromachi period (1336-1573). Female loyalty, filial piety and a concern with the present world are all important themes in Karaito. This is the first time that Karaito sōshi has been translated into English, with the intent to add to the body of accessible works from the Muromachi period for enjoyment and further academic study.