A Daughter of the Samurai · Chapter
XX: Neighbours explained
Etsu discusses with Miss Helen the differences and similarities between American and Japanese women, using the examples of Molly Pitcher, the women of Hachijo Island, and their neighbor Mrs.
What happens
Etsu discusses with Miss Helen the differences and similarities between American and Japanese women, using the examples of Molly Pitcher, the women of Hachijo Island, and their neighbor Mrs. Newton. She reflects on her conversations with the General about American history and the value of antiquity versus progress, and begins to question her own assumptions about gender roles and cultural customs.
Themes in this chapter
Gender Roles and Women's Strength
The chapter contrasts American and Japanese women, revealing hidden strength and capability beneath gentle exteriors, as seen in Mrs. Newton and the women of Hachijo.
Tradition vs. Modernity
Etsu questions the value of ancient customs after hearing the General's stories of American progress, reflecting a shift from reverence for antiquity to a forward-looking perspective.
Cultural Transition and Identity
Etsu navigates her dual identity as a Japanese woman in America, debating cultural stereotypes and finding common ground with Miss Helen.
Characters to notice
- Etsu Inagaki Sugimoto
Engages in a debate with Miss Helen about the nature of Japanese and American women, and reflects on her changing views of tradition and progress.
- Miss Helen
Challenges Etsu's views on women, discusses Molly Pitcher and Japanese women, and is surprised by the story of Hachijo Island's women rulers.
- Mother
Tells Etsu about Mrs. Newton's brave act of shooting a snake to save her birds, illustrating hidden strength.
- Mrs. Newton
Described as gentle and timid but capable of courageous acts, such as shooting a snake and walking miles for help.
- Matsuo
Walks back with Etsu and Miss Helen, and later joins Mother on the porch.
- General
The elderly neighbor who shares stories of American history and influences Etsu's perspective on antiquity and progress.
Key passages
““After all,” I said to myself, “she is like a Japanese woman!””
Etsu concludes that Mrs. Newton's hidden bravery mirrors the strength she believes is inherent in Japanese women.
Reflects Etsu's belief in the underlying similarity between American and Japanese women despite surface differences.
““Perhaps,” I sometimes said to myself, “it would be better not to look back with such pride to a glorious past; but instead, to look forward to a glorious future. One means quiet satisfaction; the other, ambitious work.””
Etsu considers that focusing on future progress might be more valuable than pride in ancient heritage.
Highlights her evolving perspective on tradition versus modernity.
““A genuine woman’s-rights woman is not one who wants her rights, but one who has them.””
Etsu defines a true feminist as a woman who already possesses and exercises her rights, rather than one who merely demands them.
Illustrates Etsu's nuanced view of women's empowerment, using the example of Hachijo Island women.