To determine the cultural setting of a story involving Yamanba, who is often associated with Japanese folklore, readers can look for figurative language that reflects the following:
-
Connection to Nature: If the passage utilizes personification, metaphor, or descriptive imagery that highlights the beauty and danger of the mountain environment, it could suggest a cultural reverence for nature, which is common in many Japanese stories. This indicates that the setting is deeply intertwined with natural elements and possibly traditional beliefs.
-
Symbolism of Characters: If Yamanba is described using figurative language that emphasizes her role as a guardian or a wise figure, this can indicate cultural values such as respect for the elderly, wisdom, and the intersection of humanity with the spiritual world. This reflects the cultural setting of traditional Japanese narratives where mountains and spirits hold significant importance.
Based on the context of figurative language used, readers can infer details about the cultural attitudes towards nature and the supernatural in the narration of Yamanba.