Namahage Performance, Part 6: Discussing the Family
Although the encounter between the head of the household and the Namahage has been relatively calm so far, things now take a more serious turn. One of the Namahage reminds the man how, last year, he promised that someone from his family would join him in pouring sake for their honored guests. Only the host is present now, however, and the Namahage grow irritated. They suggest that the other family members are staying away because they have something to hide. They look over at the audience in the hope of catching a few loafers.
Protecting his family, the host objects, arguing that everyone in his household works hard and leads an honorable life. But his protests fail to convince the Namahage, who imply that he is lying to cover for his indolent relatives. Why do the Namahage come to this conclusion?