My Happy Marriage

The setting is late 19th century Japan; both Japanese and Western culture is portrayed with an emphasis on how the West influenced Japan. The romantic relationships follow traditional gender roles. Miyo is presented as a "damsel in distress," and her suitors talk about "saving" her. However, the lead male characters don't follow stereotypes for men (e.g. they cry, show gentleness, are shy about romance).

Miyo is the victim of bullying, abuse, and neglect from her father, stepmother, and stepsister. In memories and dreams, she is locked in small rooms, treated as a servant, underfed, and verbally harassed. In the present day, her family and others still use intimidation and insults to frighten and manipulate their adult children. A character has a scary dream involving a group of shadowy figures moaning in pain and reaching out towards her. Invisible spirits attack characters, who fight back with supernatural powers.

Miyo and Kiyoka are engaged through an arranged marriage. The plot follows their journey to falling in love. Characters hug.

Characters repeatedly talk down to Miyo and threaten her well-being and happiness. Other characters experience verbal hostility from parents and potential fiancés.

An older adult smokes cigarettes.