Japanese Literature Including Selections from Genji Monogatari and Classical Poetry and Drama of Japan

by Epiphanius Wilson

This is a pre-1923 historical reproduction that was curated for quality. Quality assurance was conducted on each of these books in an attempt to remove books with imperfections introduced by the digitization process. Though we have made best efforts - the books may have occasional errors that do not impede the reading experience. We believe this work is culturally important and have elected to bring the book back into print as part of our continuing commitment to the preservation of printed works worldwide.

Genres: Classics

Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 1899

Reviews

[Nicolas Shump · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have read only two plays from this anthology, but I liked them both. "Abstraction" is very short, but it reminds me of the work of Japanese film directors like Kurosawa and a classic like Rashomon. The nature of identity and truth is slippery in this piece. At the same time, there is definite evidence of classic Japanese virtues like duty, decorum, and masculinity/patriarchy.
The second play I read is one of the Japanese Noh dramas called "Nakamitsu." What a tragic piece. The theme of duty is prevalent and is the source of much of the tragedy and in my case near anger and revulsion at what happens to some of these characters. However the themes of sacrifice, courage, and honors make for a powerful experience.

[Joey · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read "The Tale of Genii" and battled on (what seemed to me) the clunky translations of the poetry.