litdevices logo

Early Summer (1951)

Brief Intro

“Early Summer” is a 1951 Japanese film directed by Yasujirō Ozu. This classic piece of cinema delves into the life of a post-war Japanese family, focusing on the 28-year-old Noriko and the pressures and expectations placed upon her to marry. Through subtle narrative techniques and intricate character dynamics, the film presents a poignant exploration of societal norms and family bonds.

Literary Devices Used in Early Summer

1. Symbolism

Movie SceneDevice Example
Noriko’s interactions with the wheat fieldThe wheat symbolizes the passage of time and life’s cyclical nature.
The photograph of the missing brotherRepresents the lingering impact of loss and memory.

2. Metaphor

Movie SceneDevice Example
Noriko’s choice of a spouseMarriage as a metaphor for societal expectations.
The changing seasonsSeasons as a metaphor for the stages of life.

3. Foreshadowing

Movie SceneDevice Example
Early discussions about marriageHints at Noriko’s eventual decision.
Conversations about the missing brotherPrepares the audience for themes of loss and change.

4. Irony

Movie SceneDevice Example
Noriko’s cheerful demeanorContrast with her internal conflict about marriage.
Family’s perception of happinessIrony in how traditional expectations clash with personal desires.

5. Juxtaposition

Movie SceneDevice Example
Modern vs traditional lifestyleJuxtaposition of generational perspectives.
City life vs rural lifeHighlights the tension between progress and tradition.

6. Motif

Movie SceneDevice Example
Train journeysMotif of travel and transition.
Domestic settingsRecurrent focus on home life emphasizes family dynamics.

7. Allegory

Movie SceneDevice Example
Noriko’s marriage plotAllegory for post-war societal reconstruction.
The family structureRepresents broader societal shifts and pressures.

8. Paradox

Movie SceneDevice Example
Noriko’s contentment vs societal expectationsParadox of individual happiness vs societal norms.
The family’s traditional values vs modern changesIllustrates the paradox of maintaining tradition in a changing world.

9. Flashback

Movie SceneDevice Example
Conversations about the pastProvide context and depth to the characters’ present situations.
Reflections on pre-war lifeContrast with the current state of the family and society.

10. Dialogue

Movie SceneDevice Example
Family discussions about marriageReveals character motivations and societal pressures.
Conversations between Noriko and her friendsHighlights differing views on marriage and independence.

Character Analysis Through Literary Devices

Character Studies

Noriko

Literary DeviceExplanation
SymbolismNoriko’s actions often symbolize the conflict between personal desires and societal expectations.
IronyHer outward cheerfulness contrasts with her internal struggles regarding marriage.

Mr. and Mrs. Mamiya

Literary DeviceExplanation
JuxtapositionTheir traditional views juxtapose with Noriko’s modern perspective.
MotifRecurring discussions about family highlight their concern for traditional values.

Kenji

Literary DeviceExplanation
FlashbackHis absence and the family’s reflections on him add depth to the theme of loss.
SymbolismHis character represents the impact of war on families.

Character Dynamics

The relationship between Noriko and her parents drives much of the narrative, highlighting themes of duty and generational conflict. The interactions between Noriko and her friends provide a window into the changing societal norms regarding marriage and independence.

Thematic Analysis

Family and Tradition

Literary DeviceExplanation
SymbolismThe family home symbolizes the stability and constraints of tradition.
JuxtapositionThe contrast between Noriko’s desires and her family’s expectations illustrates the tension between tradition and modernity.

Change and Modernization

Literary DeviceExplanation
MetaphorThe changing seasons metaphorically reflect the societal changes.
MotifTrain journeys symbolize the movement towards modernity and change.

Individual vs Society

Literary DeviceExplanation
IronyThe irony of Noriko’s cheerful demeanor against her internal struggle represents the conflict between individual happiness and societal expectations.
ParadoxThe paradox of maintaining personal desires in the face of societal pressures is central to the narrative.

Cinematic Techniques That Enhance Literary Devices

Literary DeviceTechniqueExplanation
SymbolismVisual imageryThe use of symbolic objects (like the wheat field) enhances thematic depth.
IronyCamera anglesClose-ups on Noriko’s face reveal her true emotions, contrasting with her outward cheerfulness.
JuxtapositionEditingCutting between city and rural scenes highlights the contrast between modern and traditional lifestyles.
MotifSound designRecurrent sounds, like the train, reinforce the motifs of transition and change.

Key Scene Analysis

Scene Selection

  1. Noriko in the Wheat Field
    YouTube Link
    Breakdown: This scene uses visual symbolism to convey Noriko’s contemplation about life and her place within societal expectations. The wheat field represents the passage of time and the cycles of life.
  2. Family Discussion About Marriage
    YouTube Link
    Breakdown: Through dialogue and juxtaposition, this scene reveals the generational conflict and the pressures Noriko faces. The close-up shots emphasize the characters’ emotions and the underlying tension.

Conclusion

Interactive Quiz

  1. What does the wheat field symbolize in “Early Summer”?
    • A) Happiness
    • B) The passage of time
    • C) Modernization
    • D) Conflict
  2. Which literary device is used to contrast Noriko’s cheerful demeanor with her internal conflict?
  3. What does the train motif represent in the film?
    • A) Stability
    • B) Transition and change
    • C) Tradition
    • D) Happiness
  4. How does the film use juxtaposition to enhance the narrative?
    • A) By comparing Noriko’s life with her friends’
    • B) By contrasting city and rural scenes
    • C) By showing Noriko’s internal thoughts
    • D) By highlighting the family’s past

Answers:

  1. B
  2. B
  3. B
  4. B

Contents

→ Index