Zeami Motokiyo

Zeami Motokiyo was a prominent Japanese playwright and actor, known for his significant contributions to the development of Noh theatre during the Muromachi period. He authored numerous plays and theoretical works on Noh performance, emphasizing the aesthetic principle of 'yugen', which suggests beauty and profundity through subtlety and implication.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Well Cradle

    Cover of 'The Well Cradle' by Zeami Motokiyo

    "The Well Cradle" is a classical Noh drama that delves into themes of longing, spiritual fulfillment, and the transient nature of life. The story revolves around a monk who encounters the spirit of a woman while visiting a well-known for its tragic legends. Through their interaction, the play explores the woman's sorrowful tale, her deep-seated regrets, and her yearning for spiritual salvation. The monk, moved by her story, offers prayers for her peace, reflecting the Buddhist belief in compassion and the possibility of redemption. The play combines poetic language, symbolic action, and supernatural elements to evoke a poignant atmosphere, characteristic of Noh theater.

    The 9862nd Greatest Book of All Time