薬屋のひとりごと
The Apothecary Diaries - Symbolism & Philosophy
Symbols & Motifs
Poisons and Medicines
Poisons and medicines are dual symbols of harm and healing. They represent the core theme of knowledge as a double-edged sword. In the palace, the same substance can be used to kill an enemy or cure an illness, and only a discerning eye like Maomao's can distinguish between the two. Her fascination with testing poisons on herself symbolizes her risky, empirical pursuit of truth.
Used constantly throughout the series. The central mystery of the first episodes revolves around lead-based face powder poisoning the consorts and their children. Maomao's role as a food taster and her personal experiments with toxins are recurring plot elements.
Kanzashi (Hairpins)
Hairpins function as symbols of status, connection, and intention. Jinshi bestowing a hairpin upon Maomao is a significant gesture, representing his favor and a desire to bind her to his service. In the pleasure district, a courtesan receiving a hairpin signifies being bought for the night. Within the series, they act as markers of complex social and power dynamics in every relationship.
Jinshi gives Maomao a hairpin early in the series, which she later uses to request a favor from the officer Lihaku. The meaning and exchange of hairpins are central to understanding the motivations behind Lakan's backstory in the latter half of the first season.
Blue Roses
The blue rose symbolizes the impossible or the unattainable. In the context of the story, it represents a difficult, seemingly impossible task that requires ingenuity and scientific knowledge to achieve, mirroring the challenges Maomao herself undertakes.
In episode 22, "Blue Roses," Maomao is tasked with helping to cultivate blue roses for a garden party. This plotline highlights her problem-solving abilities outside of purely medical mysteries and serves as a metaphor for achieving the extraordinary through intellect.
Philosophical Questions
Does knowledge bring freedom or imprisonment?
The series consistently explores this question through Maomao. Her medical expertise allows her to solve life-threatening problems and earn a degree of respect and autonomy unavailable to other servants. However, this same knowledge makes her a target and a tool for the powerful, trapping her in the dangerous world of court politics she desperately wants to escape. The narrative suggests that knowledge is a form of power, but one that comes with heavy burdens and responsibilities that can severely restrict one's freedom.
What is the nature of justice in a hierarchical society?
Maomao often uncovers truths behind poisonings and deaths, but true justice is rarely served in a straightforward manner. The culprits are often powerful individuals, and punishment is dictated by political expediency rather than moral righteousness. Maomao's role is not of a judge, but of a truth-seeker. The series seems to argue that in a rigid hierarchy, the pursuit of truth is a revolutionary act in itself, even if the system is incapable of delivering perfect justice.
Core Meaning
The core meaning of "The Apothecary Diaries" revolves around the power of knowledge and pragmatism in a world governed by rigid social structures and superstition. It champions a woman who uses her intellect, not her status or beauty, to navigate and survive a dangerous environment. The series explores the quiet strength and resilience of women within a patriarchal society, highlighting their intelligence and camaraderie as essential tools for survival. It posits that truth, sought through scientific inquiry and objective observation, is a powerful force that can cut through political intrigue, social pretense, and even deeply rooted traditions. Maomao's journey is a testament to the idea that one's worth is defined by their skills and character, not their birthright.