Feudalism In Japan

by Peter Duus

This book offers a systematic comparison between Japanese and Western political institutions in the premodern period. It offers a brief discussion of the meaning and significance of the term Feudalism, and it suggests ways in which the term might be used for explorations in comparative history. Because of its brevity, it can be used as one of many paper backs in the premodern Japanese history course, or as background reading for courses on modern Japanese history and modern Japanese politics. Given its comparative approach, it can also be used as supplement in Western or world civilization course.

Genres: History, Japan, Nonfiction, Japanese History

160 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1975

About the author

A specialist in the history of modern Japan, Peter Duus was William H. Bonsall Professor of History, Emeritus at Stanford University.

Reviews

[Gretchie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A surprisingly comprehensive and compelling read for such a small book about an apparently tedious topic. I opened this book because some chapters are assigned for my undergraduate Asian Warfare and Politics class, but I ended up finishing it because it was so well written and unexpectedly interesting. I hope this book doesn’t get lost, because it was kind of hard to find for the course!

[Keith Alverson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Found my wife’s old college textbook in the basement. Slim but highly informed and informative volume on feudal Japan covering about 8 centuries starting with Kiyamori/Moritomo and ending with the Meiji Restoration. Some occassional comparisons and contrasts with Feudal Europe sprinkled through the book. A very enjoyable read.

[Epcollins · Rating 3 out of 5]

College Text

[Nyri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good general work from a global perspective. Compares and contrasts feudalism in Japan with feudalism in western Europe.