Here, the expression "Sono yaku rashisa" (looks like that role) is explained based on actual roles. Click on each of the following photographs.
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    Akuba is a woman who does evil things such as extortion for the person she loves, and who swings edged weapons to fight. Originally, Onnagata did not perform villains' roles, but the Akuba role type was established by Iwai Hanshiro 5th, active in the Bunka/Bunsei periods [1804-1830]. The distinction of this role type is the chic and crisp way of speaking. Charm and female sex appeal are required for this role.
 Otomi's costume represents a Sewamono character, so the characteristics of the role are expressed by its pattern. The Benkei-goshi pattern gives a chic impression. In many cases the Akuba character wears this costume when she attempts extortion.
Benkei-goshi costumes are used for roles other than Akuba, such as Igami no Gonta in "Yoshitsune sembonzakura," but the size of the koshi (lattice) pattern varies according to each character. 
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