Kurosawa’s Throne of Blood was a
very unique spin on the tale of Macbeth. One of the most interesting aspects
was the choice of feudal Japan as a setting, a choice that I think fit the
story even better than the original Scotland. Japan is a culture steeped in
tradition and the nothing so wholly encapsulates the essence of feudal japan as
the samurai. The samurai were great warriors who placed a high value on honor
and righteousness; they lived by a strict code.
Betrayal
was a particularly heinous crime. The blood of the traitor that stains the
walls of North Garrison is treated with disgust. They refer to it as “the blood
of a dog” and this act of betrayal has tainted a whole life of honor. This
framework makes Washizu’s actions even more heinous, not to mention those of
his wife. Washizu knows that he is one of Tsuzuki’s most trusted commanders and
also has great faith in his friend Miki. Despite this, the curse of ambition
allows doubt to creep into his mind and he begins to mistrust his commander and
his best friend. Washizu’s fall is even more painful because he has lost the
trust of his army and so his selfish ambition is thwarted by another betrayal
of trust.
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