Memoirs of a Geisha: The Downside of the "Ideal" Woman Fiona J. Lin 10th Grade

“...The very word “geisha” means artist and to be a geisha is to be judged as a moving work of art.” (Memoirs of a Geisha, Movie 2005) How would you feel living in a society that judged you on your physical appearance? How would you feel knowing that something so superficial and shallow determined your worth in the eyes of others? Gender roles have always had great influence in society, and as a major part of traditional beliefs, are the core that Memoirs of a Geisha is based on, and are the driving force behind each character’s actions. Throughout Memoirs of a Geisha, women were seen only as objects to be sold. The submissive beauty and objectification of women were traditional beliefs that Sayuri eventually built her life around.

In the book, we see that women at the time were expected to be very submissive and were favored more when appearing innocent. Through Sayuri’s narration, we see how much she worries about gaining the favor of various officials and important men, as well as how she is taught to showcase herself and exhibit a gentle and obedient demeanor. In the various meetings Sayuri had with different men, we see that her behavior instantly changes to become more demure and meek. For example, she was taught by...