Way of Geisha Part 1

 

The history of the Geisha  began in the 18^th century in Japan. They are known for their skills in conversation, dance or playing musical instruments. Before becoming a Geisha, the girls are submitted in training at a very young age, they join what is known as a Geisha house (okiya). In this training there are three stages in which they need to achieve. The first stage is called shikomi. In this stage is where the girls have the job of housekeeping. In order to advance to the next stage they need to pass an intense dance exam, if passed they become a minarai. In the second stage they are taught to learn conversations and how to interact with guests. During this stage they need to have a close relationship with a senior geisha (one-san), they learn the art of sake, clear conversation, and general components. Before advancing to the next stage it can take months or years. Once a geiko they attend parties which they charge full price for their service. They are paid for their company at parties or other events. The way that they charge is by burning incense. A wealthy man normally pays the training and other expenses for the girl because it is very costly. Their dress code is a colorful robe known as kimono, with an ornate tied around the waist, white socks split at the toe known as tabi, flat soled sandals(zori), tall wooden clogs(okobo), a wig with combs and pins. The significance of the word Geisha is broken down into two parts, “gei” meaning art and “sha” meaning people or person. The Geishas is one of Japans one of the oldest tradition and most recognized as well. Now in day the Geishas have declined.

            This article was helpful in the way that it helped portray what the geishas have to go through in becoming one. Becoming a geisha is not a simple task it takes discipline and will. There could be a misconception on how the geishas are related as prostitutes this article explains how this is false. The video as well show scenes of the roles the geishas play.