NHK Taiga Drama Screenwriter Shizuka Oishi Addresses Imperial Scandal Allegations

In the NHK Taiga drama “Hikaru Kimi e,” starring Yuriko Yoshitaka, the 32nd episode, which aired on August 25, features Mahiro (played by Yoshitaka) finally entering the imperial court after being recognized by Emperor Ichijō and beginning work on writing “The Tale of Genji.”

Amidst this, the birth story of “The Tale of Genji” has been revealed, drawing significant attention. 

“‘The Tale of Genji,’ considered the world’s oldest novel, was written by Murasaki Shikibu during the mid-Heian period. Renowned authors such as Jun’ichirō Tanizaki and Jakuichō Setouchi have attempted modern translations, which often include shocking scenes like night visits and ‘cuckoldry.’ In this Taiga drama, the model for these scenes is revealed to be Emperor Ichijō (played by Eiku Shiono) and his deceased empress, Shōshi (played by Mitsuki Takahata). It has become clear that the drama portrays a scandal similar to that of the current emperor, causing a stir among viewers.” (Producer of the production company)

In the episode titled “Kiritsubo” from ‘The Tale of Genji,’ the beloved Kiri no Tsubo is envied by the court ladies, falls ill, and dies, deeply mourning the emperor’s feelings. The emperor’s feelings for Kiri no Tsubo are analogous to Emperor Ichijō’s sentiments towards Empress Shōshi.

In episode 31, there is a scene where Mahiro listens intently to Michinaga as he recounts Emperor Ichijō’s true feelings. Furthermore, it depicts how the emperor reacts emotionally when he reads the story for the first time.”

“Is that a slight against me?”

The scene where Michinaga is interrogated also appears. From these points, it is undeniable that Emperor Ichijo and Teishi are the models for the characters.

Mihiro’s writing is strikingly brilliant. In contrast to Sei Shonagon, who wrote The Pillow Book (Sei Shonagon, also known as First Summer Uika) with the intent of leaving only the splendid image of the Empress Teishi in people’s hearts, Murasaki Shikibu illuminates the “shadowy parts” of the two characters, masterfully depicting the human side of the Emperor. This literary skill grips our modern hearts even after a thousand years.

Moreover, this story is not merely a scandalous and sensual novel about the imperial family.

 

 

 

When Emperor Ichijo first read The Tale of Genji, he questioned,

“Is this an affront to me?”

And pressed for an answer.

“The way she subtly incorporates stories from Tang China, Buddhist teachings, and our own country’s history makes the writer’s erudition seem unparalleled. I would like to meet that woman again.”

 

This makes one inevitably think, “Murasaki Shikibu (Mihiro) is to be feared.”

 

However, the person most surprised by this incident may be Fujiwara no Michinaga, played by Yusuke Santamaria.

“Michinaga, who wishes to direct the attention of Emperor Ichijo towards his daughter, Shoshi (played by Ai Mikami), is advised by Abe no Seimei (played by Yusuke Santamaria) to pressure Mihiro into writing a story that surpasses The Pillow Book. Michinaga could never have imagined that Mihiro’s story would so easily capture Emperor Ichijo’s heart.

In Episode 32, seeing Mihiro write the story with such dedication, Michinaga murmurs, ‘The woman I fell in love with is such a woman.’ This scene becomes an impressive portrayal of Michinaga’s complex inner feelings.” (Producer’s comment)

Mihiro and Michinaga have become writers and editors (producer).

 

“I took this job as a final gamble, deciding to go all in.”

 

“I want to depict Heian-era sex and violence.”

 

Scriptwriter Shizuko Oishi expressed her determination for this work at a press conference.

“In Episode 10, ‘Moonlit Conspiracy,’ there is a depiction of a secret meeting between the two characters, featuring a long kiss initiated by Michinaga from a back hug. Michinaga once again expresses his willingness to abandon everything for their love. Although their feelings are mutual, they ultimately resign themselves to not being able to live together due to their different social standings.

Later, Mahiro becomes the wife of Fujiwara Nobutaka, and it seems inconceivable that they could ever meet again. However, just when it seemed all hope was lost, an unexpected event occurs: Mahiro becomes pregnant with Michinaga’s child. Who could have predicted such a development?”

I’m sure I’m not the only one who sensed the production staff’s determination in this unexpected turn of events.

 

Mahiro and Michinaga, who met in their childhood and have been intertwined like twin souls, have their love story taking a new direction. How will this affect the “Oishi Genji” crafted by screenwriter Shizu Oishi? Across a thousand years, a new chapter of “The Tale of Genji” is about to begin.