A study of Shinto;: The religion of the Japanese nation

by Genchi Katu

Book by Curzon

250 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1971

Reviews

[Arnika · Rating 3 out of 5]

a solid resource if you want to know how shinto developed throughout history but the way the author kept continually comparing the myths of the kami and shinto concepts to similar myths and concepts in greek mythology was incredibly irksome. i get the sense that this was to aid a western audience who would be likely more familiar with these ideas and stories from hellenic beliefs but while some of the features may be similar, the constant comparison to them felt like it hugely reduced the value of the shinto counterparts to simply a japanese version of these myths. it felt very strange for an academic work.

[Fabio · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an historical book and must be read keeping in mind the moment in time it was written.
I particurarly enjoyed this book although its informations are a bit dated. But it's full of old aspects that are not commonly share in shinto books.
Surely "kokka shinto" ideology permeates the whole book, but it is still interesting. For examople Katō gives "new" interpretations of Hiruko kami as well Ame no Minakanushi no Kami. Katō also stresses the originality of Shinto, being the original religion of Japan, following the precepts of the era.
Despite these limitations, i 've found the book interesting. Sorry for my poor english