Overview
- Apothecary Diaries successfully passes the Bechdel Test, showcasing dialogues among female characters that are unrelated to men.
- The series introduces a fresh narrative by highlighting empowered female leads within a genre often dominated by male perspectives.
- While it meets the Bechdel Test criteria, this show stands out not only for its representation but also for its captivating mysteries and immersive world-building.
Quick Navigation
With a dynamic female ensemble and a unique perspective on a frequently romanticized historical era, viewers may ponder whether Apothecary Diaries meets the Bechdel Test criteria. This inquiry is particularly pertinent given the narrative’s focus on characters tied to a central, male figure.
Considering the main character, Maomao, one could expect this engaging tale of intrigue and medicine to pass the test effortlessly. However, does this story genuinely represent women, or do they merely serve as visual appeal amidst a backdrop of male-centric plots? A deep dive into the first episode may provide clarity.
How to Enjoy the Story
| Light Novels | Apothecary Diaries | 15 Volumes (Ongoing) |
|---|---|---|
| Manga | Apothecary Diaries | 15 Volumes (Ongoing) |
| Manga | Apothecary Diaries: Maomao’s Notes From the Inner Palace | 20 Volumes (Ongoing) |
| Anime | Apothecary Diaries | 2 Seasons, 35 Episodes (Ongoing) |
Known in Japan as Kusuriya no Hitorigoto, Apothecary Diaries narrates the experiences of Maomao, a girl from humble beginnings who is taken in by a skilled apothecary. Growing up near a pleasure district, Maomao is surrounded by maternal figures who work in a prestigious brothel. She keenly absorbs her father’s teachings and conducts her own experiments to enhance her skills. Her journey takes a dramatic turn when she is kidnapped and forced into service within the Emperor’s rear palace, a setting full of intrigue.
Equipped with sharp observational abilities and a wealth of knowledge, Maomao identifies the source of an illness afflicting two concubines and their infants. She takes the initiative to warn these women, despite her attempt to stay under the radar. However, a handsome eunuch named Jinshi quickly uncovers her identity, leading to an unexpected alliance with Gyokuro, one of the concubines who appreciates her insights and promotes her to lady-in-waiting.
Pass or Fail?
The premiere episode sets a vivid tone for the series, revealing Maomao’s exceptional education and her awareness of her precarious status within the palace hierarchy. Given her clever nature, it seems implausible that her dialogue would largely revolve around men.
However, understanding the context of her position, discussions concerning the Emperor or the aforementioned eunuch might be expected. Upon reviewing the episode, it’s surprisingly noticeable how seldom the female characters address these men in their private interactions, primarily engaging in discussions about various subjects beyond their male counterparts. This warrants a deeper exploration of the Bechdel Test.
What is the Bechdel Test?
Formulated by Alison Bechdel in the 1980s, the Bechdel Test, also referred to as the Bechdel-Wallace Test, serves as a standard for assessing the representation of female characters in media. The criteria are straightforward:
- There must be at least two named female characters.
- These women must engage in conversation.
- The dialogue must revolve around something other than a man.
While these requirements appear simple, it’s astonishing how many films, books, and television shows fail to meet them—even classics like Breakfast at Tiffany’s and The Princess Bride fall short. Though passing the test doesn’t inherently indicate a story’s quality, it’s certainly a noteworthy aspect. In terms of representation, episode one of Apothecary Diaries exceeds expectations in all three areas.
This is How it’s Done
The first criterion is easily met due to the predominance of female characters in the series. With key figures like Paimei, Xiaolan, and the Madam featured prominently in the initial scenes, it’s evident that this narrative prioritizes women. Their interactions are frequent, as they are involved in the majority of discussions in the first episode, totaling seven exchanges. Notably, only two of these dialogues pertain to men, with a third considering the Emperor’s newborn son. Some may argue for a fourth conversation regarding a casual greeting to Maomao’s father. Overall, Apothecary Diaries successfully delivers engaging representation of women.
A Winner, Regardless
While simply passing the Bechdel Test doesn’t automatically elevate a story to literary acclaim, it highlights important themes of female representation. A compelling narrative demands more than mere checklist completion. Apothecary Diaries not only excels in portraying complex female characters but also provides a unique viewpoint on an engaging historical backdrop, breaking away from the male-dominated mold typical of the genre. Audiences can expect rich character development and thrilling mysteries as Maomao and her allies navigate through an array of clues and rumors to unveil hidden truths. Whether one is drawn in by the well-crafted characters, exquisite animation, or the allure of unraveling mysteries, Apothecary Diaries is an essential watch for anyone who appreciates captivating storytelling—a must-see for women and viewers alike.