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Library's collection Library's IT development CancelThe short story?s unity, density, and brevity are the primary motives for
my choice of this literary genre. From all the stories that come from all around the
world, I choose Japanese short story. Subjectively because they impress me much
with their interesting themes and unique story-telling method, and objectively
because along with some other critics, I believe them to be `hidden beauties? that
are currently less unknown compared to the Western Literature. From all the
brilliant classical Japanese writers, I chose Ryunosuke Akutagawa for his original
story-telling method and dedication in writing and Mori Ogai for his deep
exploration in human nature as well as his acknowledged contribution to the
Japanese literature. From Akutagawa, I chose Kesa and Morito for its exploration
in the nature of men and Rashomon for its achievement in both literary and film-making
world. From Mori Ogai, I chose Takase Bune, because the story offers an
interesting moral topic on euthanasia, as well as a reflection on the aspects of life.
The linking factor in these three stories is the main characters? dilemmatic
situations. Morito has to choose between breaking his promise and committing
murder, the samurai servant has to choose between stealing and starving to death,
and Kisuke has to choose between sparing his brother?s pain and obeying the law.
In this thesis, I will analyze the dilemmas and the choices, the motives, and the
consequences of the choices. Since this analysis will concern much with the
characters? moral principles and dilemmas, I choose to make an analysis
concerning the motives and the consequences of their dilemmatic decision
makings. I will make a literary approach with the literary devices of
characterization and conflict, as well as some supporting concepts on motives and
moral consequences. In my findings, I find that Morito?s motives in Kesa and
Morito are pride, cowardice, and hatred, while his motive of love is fake. His
choice results in Kesa?s death and him being a murderer. In Rashomon, the
samurai servant?s motives are egoism, hatred, and excuse. His choice brings an
advantage for himself and harm to the old lady. In Takase Bune, Kisuke?s motives
are compassion and pressure. His action leads to his imprisonment and his
brother?s death. Without the consideration of motives and consequences, I believe
all the actions will be judged as `morally wrong?. Thus, my final argument is that
it is necessary to consider the factors of motives and consequences in making
moral judgment toward other people?s actions.