Onnagata: A Labyrinth of Gendering in Kabuki Theater

by Maki Isaka and Maki Morinaga

Book Overview

Kabuki is well known for its exaggerated acting, flamboyant costumes and makeup, and unnatural storylines. The onnagata , usually male actors who perform the roles of women, have been an important aspect of kabuki since its beginnings in the 17th century. In a "labyrinth" of gendering, the practice of men playing women's roles has affected the manifestations of femininity in Japanese society. In this case study of how gender has been defined and redefined...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0295742755
• ISBN13: 9780295742755
• Release Date: July 2017
• Publisher: University of Washington Press
• Length: 272 Pages
• Weight: 0.70 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.7" x 8.8"
• Grade Range: Postsecondary and higher