Shunnei

春栄 Shunnei

1 Source and/or Related Material

Unknown

2 Author

Unknown, but some verses are the same as Zeami’s “Kaidōkudari”

3 Repertoire

Kanze, Hōshō, Komparu, Kongō, Kita

4 Synopsis

Takahashi Gonnokami (waki) has taken young Masuo Shunnei (kokata) prisoner at the Battle of Uji Bridge and is keeping him captive in his hall. Takahashi orders his servant (ai) to look after Shunnei. Shunnei’s older brother Masuo Tanenao (shite) and his retainer (tomo) arrive, and after taking away Tanenao’s swords, Takahashi allows him to see his younger brother. Shunnei attempts to protect his older brother by saying he is merely a family retainer, while Tanenao says he will kill himself to save his younger brother. Observing the brothers, who are now in tears, Takahashi is deeply moved and decides to adopt Shunnei as his son. At that moment, however, Takahashi receives a message from Kamakura, which contains an order for the prisoner’s execution. The brothers, having decided to die together, prepare keepsakes for their mother, then await their fate. Just as they are about to be executed, a messenger (wakitsure) arrives bearing a pardon. The brothers and Takahashi rejoice, and Takahashi declares that he will adopt Shunnei. A celebratory banquet is held, where Takahashi gives Shunnei an heirloom sword and the new father and son each dance.