What’s Wrong with the Mom in Totoro?
In Hayao Miyazaki’s beloved animated film “My Neighbor Totoro,” the character of Mrs. Kusakabe, the mother of two young sisters, has been a subject of much discussion and analysis. Despite her seemingly perfect image as a caring and nurturing parent, there are underlying issues that raise questions about what’s wrong with Mrs. Kusakabe. This article delves into the various aspects of her character and explores the possible reasons behind her seemingly odd behavior.
Overprotective Nature
One of the most noticeable characteristics of Mrs. Kusakabe is her overprotective nature. She is constantly worried about her daughters’ safety, which often leads to her making overly cautious decisions. For instance, she advises her daughters to stay indoors and not play outside, even during sunny days. This excessive concern can be attributed to her own fears and insecurities, as she was separated from her husband during the war and had to raise her children alone.
Lack of Communication
Another issue with Mrs. Kusakabe is her lack of communication with her daughters. Despite her efforts to be caring and supportive, she often fails to understand their emotions and needs. This is evident when she tries to comfort her daughters by offering them tea instead of listening to their concerns. Her communication style suggests that she is more focused on her own anxieties than on building a strong emotional connection with her children.
Depression and Isolation
Mrs. Kusakabe’s character also hints at underlying depression and isolation. She spends a significant amount of time alone in her room, away from her family. This could be a reflection of her struggles with adjusting to life after her husband’s death and the loneliness that comes with it. Her depression may also be the reason behind her overprotective nature, as she is trying to shield her daughters from the pain she experiences.
Internal Conflict
Lastly, Mrs. Kusakabe’s internal conflict is a contributing factor to her odd behavior. She is torn between her love for her children and her desire to protect them from the world. This internal struggle leads her to make decisions that seem irrational or out of touch with reality, such as advising her daughters to avoid the Totoro forest. Her internal conflict is a manifestation of her fear of losing her children and the pain of being alone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Mrs. Kusakabe may appear to be a perfect mother on the surface, there are several underlying issues that contribute to her odd behavior. Her overprotective nature, lack of communication, depression, and internal conflict all play a role in shaping her character. These aspects of her personality add depth and complexity to the film, making it a more relatable and thought-provoking story. What’s wrong with Mrs. Kusakabe is not that she is a bad mother, but rather that she is a human being with her own flaws and struggles, which makes her character all the more endearing.
