The Spider's Thread

Interesting Facts

• «The Spider's Thread» is a short story considered one of Ryūnosuke Akutagawa's most famous works.
• The story was first published in 1918 and became a classic example of early 20th-century Japanese literature.
• The plot is based on a Buddhist parable about compassion and karma.
• The main character, Kandata, is a sinner who gets a chance at salvation thanks to a single good deed—sparing a spider.
• The spider's thread lowered by Buddha into hell symbolizes hope and the possibility of redemption.
• The story explores themes of morality, justice, and the consequences of human actions.
• «The Spider's Thread» is often included in school programs in Japan and studied as part of the country's cultural heritage.
• The work has been adapted into various art forms, including theater and animation.