A mean man will kill a woman with his sword 

Katsushika Hokusai made this woodblock print depicting a violent scene. It reflects the social and cultural landscape of 19th-century Japan, a society undergoing significant transformations. Here, we see the stark contrast between male dominance and female vulnerability, visualized through the poised samurai and the woman at his mercy. Hokusai, known for his critical observations of Japanese society, subtly critiques the social norms that condoned such violence. The print invites viewers to question the power structures that normalized violence against women. Analyzing this image requires delving into the social history of the Edo period, examining legal and cultural texts, and exploring the complex interplay of gender, class, and violence. By studying these sources, we can understand art as a mirror reflecting society's values, prejudices, and power dynamics.