Dimensions
152 x 229 x 15mm
Maiko Masquerade explores Japanese representations of the maiko, or apprentice geisha, in films, manga, and other popular media as an icon of exemplary girlhood. Jan Bardsley traces how the maiko, long stigmatized as a victim of sexual exploitation, emerges in the 2000s as the chaste keeper of Kyotorsquo;s classical artistic traditions. Insider accounts by maiko and geisha, their leaders and fans, show pride in the training, challenges, and rewards maiko face. No longer viewed as a toy for menssquo;s amusement, she serves as catalyst for womentsquo;s consumer fun. This change inspires stories of ordinary girlsndash;and even one boycdash;striving to embody the maiko ideal, engaging in masquerades that highlight questions of personal choice, gender performance, and national identity.
