Sada

Overview

On May 17, 1936, in an era marked by war, economic hardship, public anxiety, and rising militarism—when popular sentiment was volatile and uncertain—Sada Abe murdered and castrated her lover. Though convicted by the law, she was celebrated by the press and hailed as a "saint" of love. Because her act was driven by passion, the purity of her intent transformed her from criminal into folk heroine.