To start, Sunja's relationship with Hansu was very toxic. Hansu is a more manipulative partner who is not particularly kind or respectful towards Sunja. Isak was very different from Hansu as he is described as being kind and respectful towards Sunja. Also, it is noted that Isak wishes to follow a more traditional Japanese path towards marriage. This means not interacting much with Sunja before their wedding. I think that this adds to Isak's character. In this time period, a man who wants a traditional path towards marriage was viewed as more respectable and thoughtful. Also, the fact that Isak wants to support Sunja while pregnant with another man's child shows how kind Isak is. It is pretty crazy that the author had all three of these characters not only meet again, but live in the same place. I wonder if there will be tension between Hansu and Isak since Hansu was the earlier lover. Also, how will Sunja approach living with her lover and her former lover? How will Hansu react to seeing his child?
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.
Hey James. I would agree with your claims about Hansu. Hansu claimed to have cared for Sunja, but in the way that he acts, it does not seem like he is really seeking a relationship with her. It is more like he is manipulating her in order for him to use her to get what he wants. I didn't catch that Isak wanted to be more traditional in his marriage. That is a very interesting observation and definitely adds to the kind of character he seems to be.
ReplyDeleteHey James, we have similar thoughts on Isak and Hansu. I think you're on to something with your final thoughts. Especially since Sunja is carrying his child, I think we are not quite done with Hansu being a figure in her life. It's interesting to think whether there will be tension between Hansu and Isak. I can't see Isak being one to start drama so I think if anything does occur, it will be led by Hansu.
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