Aaron Mahnke's Cabinet of Curiosities – Episode: "Condemned"

Release Date: January 28, 2025

In the episode titled "Condemned," host Erin Menke takes listeners on a fascinating journey through two distinct yet equally intriguing tales. Each story delves into historical mysteries and peculiar traditions, showcasing the blend of the past and present that shapes our understanding of the world today.

1. The Enigmatic Okunoin Cemetery of Mount Koya, Japan

Overview Erin Menke opens the episode by exploring the rich history of Japan, highlighting its transition from a nation of samurai and isolationism to a modern commercial powerhouse. Central to this narrative is the Okunoin Cemetery located on Mount Koya, a site where ancient beliefs intersect with contemporary corporate practices.

Mount Koya and Kobo Dashi Mount Koya, established in 819 by the revered Buddhist monk Kobo Dashi, serves as the spiritual heart of Japanese Esoteric Buddhism. Kobo Dashi, often likened to the "Eastern Leonardo da Vinci," made significant contributions across various disciplines, including calligraphy, poetry, and philosophy. His legacy is preserved through oral traditions, where monks pass down teachings using nature-inspired analogies, such as comparing a "clouded mind" to the different phases of the moon.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Kobo Dashi's legacy is his tomb. Unlike traditional burials, he was sealed in a tomb to continue meditating on humanity's welfare. Monks maintain this chamber by providing two meals daily, believing that the tomb functions as an eternal meditation space rather than a final resting place.

Historical Challenges and Modern Reverence Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, Mount Koya faced numerous challenges from Shoguns who viewed the growing influence of Buddhism as a threat. Despite these attacks and imposed restrictions, the legend of Kobo Dashi endured, leading Tokugawa Iemitsu, the third Tokugawa shogun, to honor his ancestors by building a shrine on Mount Koya in 1643.

Today, Mount Koya remains a testament to Japan's ability to honor its past while embracing modernity. The Okunoin Cemetery, which originally housed samurai graves, now includes memorials for contemporary corporations like Panasonic, Canon, and Shinmaiwa. These corporate graves often feature unique markers, such as Shinmaiwa's large stone rocket ship, reflecting the companies' identities and legacies.

Notable Memorials One particularly unique memorial belongs to the Japan Pest Control Association, erected in 1968. This memorial honors the thousands of termites exterminated as part of their work, juxtaposing Buddhist vegetarian principles with the practical demands of pest control. As Menke poignantly remarks, "With this memorial, the Japanese Pest Control Association expressed regret that their existence was incompatible with the existence of termites" (03:45).

Cultural Persistence Mount Koya's enduring legacy illustrates how modern Japan continues to be influenced by its historical and spiritual roots. Despite technological advancements and societal changes, the emotions of sadness, guilt, and the desire to honor the dead remain deeply ingrained. Menke concludes this segment with a thoughtful reflection: "They may have traded in their swords for smartphones, but they still feel sadness, guilt, and a desire to honor the dead" (05:00).

2. The Mysterious Death of Christopher Marlowe

Overview The second tale transports listeners back to Elizabethan England, focusing on the enigmatic playwright Christopher Marlowe. Known for masterpieces like "Doctor Faustus" and "The Massacre at Paris," Marlowe's untimely and mysterious death has been a subject of intrigue and speculation for centuries.

The Fateful Night On May 30, 1593, Marlowe was fatally stabbed in a tavern in Deptford, London. The incident occurred after a heated argument over a bill in a private room, leading to his fatal injury. The eyewitnesses—Ingram Friser, Nicholas Scares, Robert Polly, and Kit Marlowe himself—claimed that Marlowe, described as "hot-headed" and possibly intoxicated, initiated the violence by brandishing a dagger (06:15).

Aftermath and Controversies Despite the apparent self-defense scenario, suspicions quickly arose due to Marlowe's reputation and the dubious backgrounds of his companions. Ingram Friser, who killed Marlowe, was pardoned on June 1 with testimony from the other two men supporting the self-defense claim. However, Marlowe's contentious life, marked by accusations of atheism, heresy, and counterfeiting, fueled rumors of foul play.

Conspiracy Theories Historian speculation suggests that Marlowe's death may have been orchestrated by powerful figures threatened by his influence or the subversive themes in his work. The involvement of men with shady pasts, such as Nicholas and Ingram being conmen and Robert Polly's imprisonment for the Babington Plot, adds layers of complexity to the mystery. Menke highlights these theories: "Scholars have proposed a number of theories with suspects, including Sir Walter Reilly, various powerful critics of Marlowe's plays, or even Queen Elizabeth herself" (08:45).

Legacy and Speculation Despite extensive research, the true motive behind Marlowe's death remains elusive. Menke emphasizes the enduring fascination with his life: "One thing we know for sure though, this famous poet died as he lived, providing drama, entertainment and intrigue to us all, living a life as adventurous as any character in a play" (10:25). His works continue to inspire, and his mysterious demise ensures that Christopher Marlowe remains a captivating figure in literary history.

Conclusion

In "Condemned," Erin Menke masterfully intertwines the ancient spiritual traditions of Japan with the tumultuous literary world of Elizabethan England. Through detailed storytelling and insightful commentary, the episode not only recounts historical events but also invites listeners to ponder the lasting impacts of these curiosities on contemporary society. As Menke aptly concludes, "They may have traded in their swords for smartphones, but they still feel sadness, guilt, and a desire to honor the dead," tying both stories together under the universal themes of legacy and remembrance.

For more intriguing tales from the past and present, subscribe to Aaron Mahnke's Cabinet of Curiosities on Apple Podcasts or visit curiositiespodcast.com. Don't forget to check out the official Cabinet of Curiosities book for an extended exploration of these curious narratives.

Notable Quotes:

• "With this memorial, the Japanese Pest Control Association expressed regret that their existence was incompatible with the existence of termites." — Erin Menke (03:45)

• "They may have traded in their swords for smartphones, but they still feel sadness, guilt, and a desire to honor the dead." — Erin Menke (05:00)

• "One thing we know for sure though, this famous poet died as he lived, providing drama, entertainment and intrigue to us all, living a life as adventurous as any character in a play." — Erin Menke (10:25)

Stay curious and continue exploring the depths of history, mystery, and the inexplicable with each episode of Aaron Mahnke's Cabinet of Curiosities.