Princess Kiku: A Japanese Romance. A Play for Girls

"Princess Kiku: A Japanese Romance. A Play for Girls" by M. F. Hutchinson is a theatrical play intended for performance, particularly featuring female characters, likely written in the early 20th century. Set in Japan, the narrative follows Princess Kiku, a favorite of the Emperor, along with her ladies-in-waiting as they navigate themes of love, loyalty, and the clash of traditional values with foreign influence. The characters wrestle with superstitions and customs, reflecting their cultural heritage while introducing a foreign presence that impacts their lives. The opening of the play introduces the Chrysanthemum Garden, where Princess Kiku interacts with her ladies-in-waiting, revealing her unease about a troubling dream filled with serpents. The scene lays the groundwork for the central conflict involving a curse placed upon her, which leads her to believe that her touch brings misfortune. As she prepares for an upcoming festival and the arrival of foreign guests, a little boy, Ito, enters the narrative, setting the stage for the interplay between traditional Japanese culture and the foreign elements that will challenge it. The dialogue captures the charm of Japanese politeness and their deep connection to nature while hinting at the tension that arises from changing societal norms.