The Art of a Geisha

Essay by melissaxomarieA+, August 2009

download word file, 2 pages 5.0

Downloaded 11 times

Did you know that the first Geisha was a male. Today they are exclusively female. The Geisha culture is very optimistic and there are many different points of view. There are many things to learn. Such as becoming a Geisha, the role of a Geisha and the arts.

The life of a Geisha is very different. The relationships and living conditions are very different from what we are used too. Life can be hard for a Geisha, it is never. But then again life is never easy. Exactly how do you become a Geisha? Well you had to be a daughter or accepted by an O-chaya. The O-chaya would invest a lot of money into these girls. The Okamisan [ or the mother ] would teach them. They did chores and observed the Geisha. When the girls reached 15 - 20 years old they became Maikos. They are apprentices to Geisha.

The Maikos go with the Geishas on appointments and learn the job. At age 20 the Maikos decides if she is going to be a Geisha. If at any time she gets married she must quit.

People are always wondering what is the role of a Geisha? They are trained in various traditions, such a dances, playing instruments, and singing, Geisha may be models and go on international tours. They work by entertaining guests, they serve drinks, talks with guests, and perform. Geisha maintain many different relationships with men. They will preform many dances at parties and business meetings. Geisha will engage in conversation. But they must never talk aboutwhat was said though.

The art of a Geisha can be a very elegant thing to watch. Geisha perform many dances, such as Miyako Odori and cherry dances that originated in Japanese cultural value. They have instruments they use such...