The Character "Dr. Gennai" in NHK's Taiga Drama "Berabō" Sparks Social Media Buzz and Mystery

In NHK's Taiga Drama "Berabō," the character "Dr. Gennai" has become a major topic of discussion on social media. In particular, a "survival theory" suggesting that "Dr. Gennai might still be alive" has emerged, adding new mystery and anticipation to the unfolding story.

The protagonist, Tsutaya Jūzaburō (Tsutajū), and his wife, Otei, were in deep despair due to the deteriorating relationship with Utamaro and the death of their child. However, the presence of Dr. Gennai became the catalyst for their recovery. Many voices on social media praise this, saying things like, "It's wonderful that Dr. Gennai is the one who helps Tsutajū and Otei regain their spirits," and "Considering that Kōshodō (Tsutaya's publishing house) was born from Dr. Gennai's words, his very existence linked them together." Comments also highlight his significant influence, such as, "Tsutajū and Otei are steadily regaining their vitality with the thought that 'Dr. Gennai might be alive!'"

As the story approaches its climax, the shogunate's conspiracy, which seemed to progress separately from Tsutajū's narrative, is dramatically beginning to connect through Dr. Gennai. Posts on social media compare this to characters like Hughes from "Fullmetal Alchemist," stating, "It's like Hughes from Fullmetal Alchemist, realizing the enemy's intentions and thus becoming a target." Other comments describe Dr. Gennai as a centralizing force drawing various characters into a single destiny: "Those who would never have crossed paths are now drawn into one fate..."

Further deepening the mystery surrounding Dr. Gennai, speculations like "Could Dr. Gennai be Sharaku?" are swirling on social media. Viewers' anticipation is at an all-time high with the upcoming appearance of "Sharaku" next week, leading to comments such as, "If Dr. Gennai was painting, could he possibly be Sharaku?" and "With the emergence of the Dr. Gennai survival theory, it feels like the storyline is entering a multi-theory route, potentially leading to an ambiguous ending involving the mysterious painter Sharaku."

Furthermore, the plot suggests connections between Dr. Gennai and the "Western Lady Painting" (西洋夫人図) with which he is deeply involved, as well as historical figures like Odano Naotake (referred to as "Odano-sama"), Shiba Kōkan, and Aōdō Denzen, who are believed to have sheltered him. Praise for the script's meticulousness abounds, with comments like, "The plot today is brilliant, foreshadowing all these developments." A particular ironic twist attracting attention is how Matsudaira Sadanobu, previously an oppressor, writes a kibyōshi (yellow-backed book) imitating Dr. Gennai's style, which then gives hope to Tsutajū.

As the story heads towards its climax, the subtitle "Flying Gennai" (空飛ぶ源内) hints at how Dr. Gennai's will, or indeed his "survival," will guide the characters and become the key to unraveling the massive conspiracy. The upcoming developments are certainly not to be missed.

The context

This article discusses the ongoing buzz around the NHK Taiga Drama "Berabō," a year-long historical drama series broadcast by Japan's public broadcaster. Taiga Dramas are known for their grand scale, often depicting the lives of famous historical figures. "Berabō" focuses on Tsutaya Jūzaburō (Tsutajū), a prominent publisher during Japan's Edo period (1603-1868).

The character causing a stir is Hiraga Gennai, a real historical polymath from the Edo period, known as an inventor, artist, writer, and doctor. His life and death are shrouded in some mystery, which the drama creatively explores through a "survival theory" and his potential connection to Sharaku. Sharaku is another enigmatic figure from the Edo period, a ukiyo-e artist whose true identity has never been definitively established, despite his brief but impactful career. The speculation that Gennai could be Sharaku is a popular theory in Japanese historical fiction and scholarship.

Other historical figures mentioned include Matsudaira Sadanobu, a powerful statesman who implemented strict reforms that often suppressed popular culture, and artists/scholars like Odano Naotake, Shiba Kōkan, and Aōdō Denzen, who were associated with Western learning (Rangaku) and often linked to Gennai.