Bandō Hikosaburō III as Godai Saburō Chikatada 1795

This woodblock print by Tōshūsai Sharaku depicts the actor Bandō Hikosaburō III as Godai Saburō Chikatada, a samurai known for his strength and loyalty. The actor's stern expression and the two swords he carries are the dominant visual symbols here, reflecting the values of the samurai class in feudal Japan: honor, duty, and martial prowess. These symbols echo across cultures. Think of the ancient Roman gladiators, who also carried swords and faced life-or-death situations with stoicism, or even the knights of medieval Europe. What strikes me is the recurring human need to admire figures of strength and courage, regardless of their historical context. The sword itself is an ancient symbol, from the bronze swords of the Mycenaeans to the rapiers of the Renaissance. Its shape may change, but its symbolic power remains as a marker of power, defense, and justice. Here, the confident posture and unwavering gaze evoke a psychological space, a feeling of resolute determination that touches us even today, reminding us of the enduring human capacity for bravery.