Issun-bōshi
The One-Inch Boy (一寸法師 Issun-bōshi; sometimes translated into English as "Little One Inch") is the subject of a
fairy tale from Japan. This story can be found in old Japanese
illustrated book, Otogizōshi, and has been various forms around the world and is similar to
the tradition of
Synopsis
The story begins with an old, childless couple who live alone. The old woman wishes for a child, despite her old age, "even if he is only one inch tall." Soon after, the old woman's wish is granted. They name the miniature child Issun-bōshi ("One-Inch Boy"). The child, despite being incredibly small, is treated well by his parents. One day, the boy realizes he will never grow taller than one inch, so he goes on a trip to seek his place in the world. Fancying himself a miniature samurai, Issun-bōshi is given a sewing needle for a sword, a rice bowl for a boat, and chopsticks for oars.
He sails down river to the city, where he petitions for a job with the government and goes to the home of a wealthy daimyo (lord), whose daughter is an attractive princess. He is scorned for his height, but nevertheless given the job of accompanying the princess as her playmate. While they travel together, they are suddenly attacked by an Oni (or an ogre in some translations), who deals with the pesky boy by swallowing him. The boy defeats the Oni by pricking him from within with his needle/sword. The Oni spits out Issun-boshi and drops a magical Uchide's Mallet as he runs away. As a reward for his bravery, the princess uses the power of the mallet to grow him to full size. Issun-bōshi and the princess remain close companions and eventually wed.
Trivia
- Gougou Sentai Boukenger has an episode (Task 21: Uchide's Mallet) in which the hammer is a Precious.
- In the video game Ōkami, the character Issun is based on the one-inch boy. Uchide's Mallet(Labeled as "Lucky Mallet") also appears in the game, although it is used to shrink the protagonist to Issun's size, rather than the other way around.
- In the video game Secret of Mana, there is a hammer called the "Midge Mallet" which grows and shrinks the user.
- In the Final Fantasy series, the "Mini" status ailment can be cured using a "Mallet".
See also
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