Myths and Legends - Episode 391: Japanese Horror: Handsome Bad Man

Release Date: October 30, 2024

Introduction

In Episode 391 of Myths and Legends, hosts Jason Weiser and Carissa Weiser delve into one of Japan's most renowned ghost stories, "Handsome Bad Man." This episode offers a chilling retelling of the tale, enriched with historical context and insightful commentary that unpacks the deeper meanings behind the narrative.

The Tale of "Handsome Bad Man"

Setting and Characters

The story is set in Japan during the 1600s, a period marked by the twilight of the Edo era. It revolves around samurai, ronin (masterless samurai), and the complex web of honor, loyalty, and revenge that defines their lives.

• Naosuke: A young ronin and a medicine seller, grappling with loyalty and survival after his master's demise.
• Osore: A distressed woman entangled in familial disgrace and seeking solace.
• Ittokihei and Saemon: Retainers caught in the fallout of their lord’s betrayal, embodying the decline of samurai honor.
• Yoshimichi Sato: Osore's estranged husband, whose return triggers a cascade of vengeance and tragedy.

Plot Overview

The narrative begins with Ume, witnessing a tense confrontation in a toothpick store between Osore and a samurai, Ittokihei. As tensions escalate, Naosuke intervenes, emphasizing his shift from a sworn samurai to a ronin striving for a peaceful existence. Despite his efforts, the story spirals into a tragic tale of betrayal, honor, and supernatural vengeance.

Key Events and Climax

1. Confrontation in the Toothpick Store (00:53)

   • Ittokihei accuses Osore, leading to a conflict that Naosuke attempts to mediate.
   • Quote: Ittokihei declares, "I have nothing against you. You're not dead." ([05:30])

2. Osore's Struggle and Naosuke's Offer (07:15)

   • Osore refuses Naosuke's attempt to protect her, highlighting her desperation.
   • Quote: Naosuke warns, "You would be dead." ([07:40])

3. Yoshimichi's Return and Vengeance (12:50)

   • Yoshimichi seeks revenge for his family's disgrace, leading to deadly confrontations.
   • Quote: Yoshimichi ominously states, "I will see you later." ([14:20])

4. Tragic Unfolding and Supernatural Elements (17:45)

   • The story intertwines human motives with ghostly retributions, culminating in horrifying transformations and the relentless pursuit of vengeance.
   • Quote: Osore laments, "I just want to move on." ([22:10])

Conclusion of the Story

The tale concludes with Naosuke succumbing to the cumulative weight of his actions and the ensuing supernatural curses. Haunted by apparitions and the ghosts of his past, he meets a tragic end, embodying the inescapable consequences of vengeance and moral decay.

Hosts' Commentary and Analysis

After narrating the intense horror story, Jason and Carissa provide a thoughtful analysis, enriching listeners' understanding of the narrative's depth and cultural significance.

Historical Context (28:50)

• Social Change in Japan: The story reflects the shifting dynamics of the samurai class during the early 1800s, a period when modernization began to erode traditional samurai values.

  Quote: Jason notes, "The samurai here are petty and violent, caught up in feuds and their own selfish ambition." ([29:10])

Themes and Interpretations (32:15)

• Subversion of Samurai Archetypes: Contrary to the idealized heroic samurai, the characters in "Handsome Bad Man" are flawed and morally ambiguous, highlighting the destructive nature of unbridled ambition and contradictory loyalties.

  Quote: Carissa observes, "They are equally likely to torture a servant and kill everyone to get what they want, as they are to stand up for honor." ([32:40])

• Gender Dynamics: The story underscores the limited power of women in that era. Female characters like Osore and Oyewa transform into vengeful spirits, compensating for their lack of agency in life.

  Quote: Carissa summarizes, "Women had no power, so they basically get superpowers when they die." ([35:05])

Listener Insights (38:20)

• Audience Interpretation: A listener from Discord, Sofonisba, shares that the women in the story embody a form of supernatural retribution, representing the societal constraints and injustices they faced.

  Quote: Sofonisba aptly states, "Actions have consequences. Oyewa isn't evil. People are evil." ([39:45])

Creature of the Week: Waterlord

In addition to the main story, the episode introduces Waterlord, a seven-headed tentacle monster from African folklore. This creature symbolizes the dire consequences of broken promises and the high cost of supernatural bargains.

• Waterlord’s Role: He punishes those who insult or fail to honor their commitments, often demanding dire sacrifices in return for rectifying wrongs.

  Quote: Jason advises, "Bring it presents, sure. Just maybe hold back on promising your kids." ([42:30])

Conclusion

Episode 391 of Myths and Legends masterfully intertwines a haunting Japanese ghost story with insightful commentary that explores themes of honor, vengeance, and the supernatural. Through their storytelling and analysis, Jason and Carissa Weiser illuminate the complexities of folklore and its reflection of societal values and changes.

Whether you're a fan of horror, history, or cultural tales, this episode offers a compelling glimpse into the dark corners of Japanese folklore and the human emotions that drive these timeless legends.

Notable Quotes:

• "You would be dead." - Naosuke ([07:40])
• "I will see you later." - Yoshimichi ([14:20])
• "I just want to move on." - Osore ([22:10])
• "The samurai here are petty and violent, caught up in feuds and their own selfish ambition." - Jason ([29:10])
• "They are equally likely to torture a servant and kill everyone to get what they want, as they are to stand up for honor." - Carissa ([32:40])
• "Women had no power, so they basically get superpowers when they die." - Carissa ([35:05])
• "Actions have consequences. Oyewa isn't evil. People are evil." - Sofonisba ([39:45])
• "Bring it presents, sure. Just maybe hold back on promising your kids." - Jason ([42:30])

Final Thoughts

Myths and Legends continues to deliver captivating stories from various cultures, unraveling the myths that have shaped societies and influenced modern storytelling. Episode 391's exploration of Japanese horror not only entertains but also invites listeners to ponder the intricate interplay between folklore and the human condition.

Thank you for joining us in this deep dive into "Handsome Bad Man." Stay tuned for more enchanting tales from myths, legends, and folklore across the globe.