At the SCU library, our class was given the opportunity to explore old artifacts from all around the world. I do find it fascinating to see how the physical mediums for sharing writing have evolved over the past centuries. First, one thing I learned about the texts was the writing medians that were used. Some of these writing mediums were papyrus, custom tablets, print, and folding paper books. Something I learned about one of the objects my partner and I examined was the accordion binding that held the book together. We learned from the librarian, Ms. Baughman-McDowell, that the accordion binding was an upgrade from the ancient scroll that was used to transcribe writing. And even before the scroll, the common physical medium was animal hides and before that it was tablets. The accordion binding led to the invention of the codex, which is considered the common form for book bindings today. I do recall being surprised at how well these archives had held up physically. However, the librarians did tell us that the books are kept in a room that is always exactly 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, the books are handled delicately, often with gloves. If not with gloves, then with washed hands. I also liked the small books that the library had. I believe Kelci said that a donor gave the library over 3,000 small 3.5x2 inch books. I have a hard time believing that anyone was able to read from that small print. Overall, I enjoyed having a change of scenery for our class.
It is clear to me that gender plays a large role in Pachinko. Sunja has many social pressures that consume her life. Most of these social pressures are a result of her being female. For example, when she gets pregnant while being single, she is pressured to leave her life in Korea behind to find a man to marry and provide for her so that she is not judged by society. This demonstrates that society is not supporting women to live independent lives and/or pursue an education. The only expectations for women include being good mothers and good wives. Another example of gender roles playing a big role in Pachinko is women as part of the workforce. In Japan, it becomes apparent that women aren't encouraged to work. In fact, Yoseb takes it as a hit to his ego as a man when Sunja and Kyunghee tell him they wish to work. He is insulted because in Japan, a man is supposed to provide for women.
I was also really interested by the accordion, and thought it was cool how it lead to the books we know now. It's kind of funny how all they needed to do was bind the back together, and it makes the whole thing so much simpler and efficient.
ReplyDeleteI was also amazed at how well many of the books survived such a long time. But it makes sense based on the lengths taken to ensure that they are properly cared for. It's fascinating the research taken to find the optimal temperature and humidity for these ancient books.
ReplyDelete