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.