Detailed Summary
The transformation of daily life in Japan during its modernization was significant, particularly in how households were structured and how societal roles evolved. Previously, the traditional patriarchal household, where extended families lived together under the control of a family head, shifted towards nuclear families. This change was not just in residence but also in roles, where domestic expectations were clearer, with husbands often becoming breadwinners and wives homemakers.
As the economy improved, particularly in the 1920s, new types of domestic goods emerged to cater to the changing lifestyle of middle-class families. Companies provided affordable housing options, enabling more efficient urban living.
Alongside economic changes, there was a cultural shift symbolized by the 'moga' phenomenon, representing a new generation of women embracing modernity, gender equality, cosmopolitan lifestyles, and access to education. The rise of urban amenities, such as electric trams, parks, and department stores, formed a backdrop for social engagement in modern entertainment forms like radio and cinema, which opened dialogue about traditional norms.
The period was marked by a vibrant exploration of identity, particularly through popular culture, led by figures such as actress Matsui Sumako. These dynamics illustrated how deeply intertwined Japan's modern identity became with its economic growth, leading to a questioning of past norms and the evolution of societal expectations.