A changing heart

Description

Fifty years ago, most marriages in Japan were arranged by parents and matchmakers (Nakodo). Arranged (Omiai) marriages were possible only within a culture of obedience. Obedient sons and daughters chose to do what their parents wanted them to do, the needs of society being more important than the needs of the individual. Today, Omiai marriages are relatively rare, but they continue to occur among people who are concerned with inherited property and titles. A Changing Heart takes an intimate look at how the Japanese, in only a century, have come to adopt love as a rationale for marriage. By examining the changing roles of women, the shape of families, the impact of World War II, as well as industrialization and the decline of tradition, the film illustrates how and why the Japanese have accepted new attitudes toward dating, romantic love and marriage. A Changing Heart also addresses the social consequences of this evolution. As people struggle with the high expectations fueled by this newly love-obsessed culture, marriages occur less often, birthrates decline and the number of divorces grows. Women in particular are increasingly choosing the independence of professional careers over married life, and young men are facing unwanted bachelorhood.

Runtime

52 min

Creator

Devine, Leigh

Subjects

Geography

Genre

Date of Publication

2003

Database

Alexander Street

Direct Link