At the Emperor's Wish: A Tale of the New Japan

"At the Emperor's Wish: A Tale of the New Japan" by Oscar K. Davis is a historical novel that was written in the early 20th century. Set in a transforming Japan, it explores themes of loyalty, duty, and social change through the lives of its characters, particularly focusing on Kudo Jukichi, a former Samurai grappling with the loss of his status in a rapidly modernizing society, and Kutami Chobei, a commoner who rises from his past as an Eta. The novel contrasts their experiences amid the shifting social landscape following the Meiji Restoration. The opening of the book introduces Kudo Jukichi, an aging Samurai reflecting on his past glories and the changes that have stripped him of his former status and privileges. Living in modest circumstances, he clings to a deep loyalty to the Emperor even while lamenting the loss of the Samurai class. Nearby, Kutami Chobei, an Eta turned commoner, thrives in the new order, demonstrating the upheaval in class structure and societal expectations. There is a budding friendship between their children, Soichi and O-Mitsu, which hints at a future that could break down traditional barriers. The narrative sets the stage for an exploration of themes like honor, sacrifice, and societal evolution against the backdrop of Japan's modernization.