Exploring ‘Takekurabe’: A Deep Dive into Higuchi Ichiyō’s Literary Masterpiece

Introduction

The short story “Takekurabe” (translated as “Growing Up”) is one of the most celebrated works of Higuchi Ichiyō, a pivotal figure in Japanese literature during the Meiji era. This paper aims to explore the thematic depth, character development, and stylistic features of “Takekurabe,” which not only reflect the socio-cultural context of late 19th-century Japan but also resonate with universal themes of childhood, social class, and the bittersweet passage of time. By delving into the narrative’s intricacies, this report will illuminate the reasons why “Takekurabe” remains a masterpiece that continues to captivate readers and scholars alike.

Thematic Exploration

At its core, “Takekurabe” addresses the theme of adolescence and the inevitable tensions that arise from the transition from childhood to adulthood. The story follows the lives of two children, a boy named Uta and a girl named Shige, who navigate their formative years within the constraints of their social e