Meta: Genjo Sanzo, Virginity, and Intimacy

Just a note before we begin: This is from the perspective of an English-speaking Westerner and primarily deals with Western English-language fandom, as that's what I know best. Japanese fandom may well treat this subject quite differently. My knowledge of Japanese culture is, of course, imperfect, but I've tried to do my best. If you're unfamiliar with anime and manga, please note that all manga panels are read right to left. (Also note that this post is image-heavy.) There are some notes at the end about Japanese culture and Buddhism that newcomers might find helpful, as well!

My eternal gratitude to my LJ flist for their patience, suggestions, and encouragement.

~

Once in a while in Saiyuki fandom, the question of Genjyo Sanzo's virginity comes around. For those of you unfamiliar with Saiyuki, it's a cracked-out, funny and surprisingly emotional retelling of the classic Chinese tale The Journey to the West. There are four lead characters: Genjyo Sanzo, a short-tempered, spiritually powerful Buddhist priest; Sha Gojyo, a gambler and ladies' man; Cho Hakkai, polite to a disquieting fault; and Son Goku, the 'kid' of the group, sweet, energetic and openhearted. Here's a rundown of the canon. This essay contains minor spoilers right up to the latest chapters of Saiyuki Reload Blast.

Of the four leads, we know that Goku hasn't had sex; we know Gojyo and Hakkai have. That leaves Sanzo, and where there's a question, fans and ficcers will speculate.

There's more to the fascination over Sanzo's quantum virginity than an unanswered question, though.

( For one thing.... )