The Dōjōji Temple Legend and Its Changing Worlds in Early Modern Japanese Drama

Abstract

This paper explores the adaptations of the Dōjōji Temple Legend in kabuki, clarify the questions of how and why the Dōjōji Temple Legend appears in so many different historical and seasonal settings. The legend about a woman transforming into a serpent because of unrequited love for a young priest has been reinterpreted across various theatrical forms. While the core narrative remains rooted in metamorphosis and the female passion for love, the kabuki staging frequently incorporates changing historical backdrops. This study investigates how and why these contextual transformations occur and explores core of the relationship between the legend and the historical backdrop. The analysis examines three key adaptations of the legend within kabuki across different periods. The first is Sanze Dōjōji (Three Generations at the Dōjōji Temple, 1701), first performed during the Genroku era (1688–1704), the first vertex for kabuki. This play obscures the legend’s connection to historical settings but incorporates acrobatic elements, such as water tricks and midair stunts. Since the performance is for the seventh month, its story and visually striking enactments provide a refreshing and exhilarating experience for theater. The second, Kyō ganoko musume dōjōji (The Maiden at the Dōjōji Temple, first enacted in 1753) and its popularity are connected to the historical world of the 12th century Soga Brothers vendetta. As a New Year production, incorporating the Tale of the Soga Brothers coordinates with the kabuki tradition of featuring the Soga Brothers’ revenge during the New Year season. Finally, Kinnozai Sarushima dairi (Gold Paper Streamers from Sarushima County, first enacted in 1829), the final work of Tsuruya Nanboku IV (1755–1829), sets the tale against the backdrop of the Jōhei-Tengyō Rebellion (931–947) and intertwines the serpent-woman motif with a male vengeful spirit. As a kaomise production, it utilizes the rebellion’s setting and the Dōjōji Temple Legend to provide a platform for all casts to showcase their theatrical skills and artistry. By examining these adaptations, this paper clarifies that while the core storyline of the Dōjōji Temple Legend remains conserved, the works are continually reimagined to coordinate with the seasonal theatrical conventions of their respective periods.