Nishiyama Matsunosuke is one of the most important historians of Tokugawa (Edo) popular culture, yet until now his work has never been translated into a Western language. Edo Culture presents a selection of Nishiyama’s writings that serves not only to provide an excellent introduction to Tokugawa cultural history but also to fill many gaps in our knowledge of the daily life and diversions of the urban populace of the time. Many essays focus on the most important theme of Nishiyama’s work: the seventeenth to nineteenth centuries as a time of appropriation and development of Japan’s culture by its urban commoners. In the first of three main sections, Nishiyama outlines the history of Edo (Tokyo) during the city’s formative years, showing how it was shaped by the constant interaction between its warrior and commoner classes. Next, he discusses the spirit and aesthetic of the Edo native and traces the woodblock prints known as ukiyo-e to the communal activities of the city’s commoners. Section two focuses on the interaction of urban and rural culture during the nineteenth century and on the unprecedented cultural diffusion that occurred with the help of itinerant performers, pilgrims, and touring actors. Among the essays is a delightful and detailed discourse on Tokugawa cuisine. The third section is dedicated to music and theatre, beginning with a study of no, which was patronized mainly by the aristocracy but surprisingly by commoners as well. In separate chapters, Nishiyama analyzes the relation of social classes to musical genres and the aesthetics of kabuki. The final chapter focuses on vaudeville houses supported by the urban masses.

An introductory guide to the mythology of Japan—one of the most pervasive yet least understood facets of Japanese culture. Handbook of Japanese Mythology makes it easy to travel this vast yet little-known mythological landscape. The book reveals the origins of Japan's myths in the very different realms of Buddhism, Shinto, and folklore, and explores related mythologies of the Ainu and Okinawan cultures and recent myths arising from Japan's encounters with modernization. It then offers vivid retellings of the central Shinto and Buddhist myths, plus descriptions of major historical figures, icons, rituals, and events. For students or long-time enthusiasts, it is the ideal guide for investigating Japanese reverence for the sun, the imperial family, and the virtues of purity and loyalty. Readers will also learn why sumo wrestlers stomp before each match, how a fussy baby creates thunder, why Japan has a god for soccer, and much more.

"This book is the first peer-reviewed collection of papers focusing on the potential of myth storylines to yield data and lessons that are of value to the geological sciences. Building on the nascent discipline of geomythology, scientists and scholars from a variety of disciplines have contributed to this volume. The geological hazards (such as earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions and cosmic impacts) that have given rise to myths are considered, as are the sacred and cultural values associated with rocks, fossils, geological formations and landscapes. There are also discussions about the historical and literary perspectives of geomythology. Regional coverage includes Europe and the Mediterranean, Afghanistan, Cameroon, India, Australia, Japan, Pacific islands, South America and North America. Myth and Geology challenges the widespread notion that myths are fictitious or otherwise lacking in value for the physical sciences." -- BOOK JACKET.

The Japanese have faithfully preserved their ancient myths as a connected and well ordered system. And as a system, Japanese myths say much about the human condition in the cosmos and about the human place in the cosmic order. Not until now has a book-length, English-language study been released on Japanese mythology. Drawing on his meticulous research, Asianist Peter Metevelis presents this selection of analytic essays that form a mosaic of themes on the primordial world of Japanese myth, adding a rewarding voice to cultural history and the history of ideas around the world. Metevelis shows that, contrary to popular belief, Japanese myths have much in common with other myths around the globe, and are mythically, logically, and symbolically equivalent. This suggests that Japanese culture has always resonated with the rest of the world and provides a valuable touchstone for comparative mythologists. The mythic themes Metevelis explores include: Linkage of birth with death Loss of immortality Containment of souls Effect of time on mortals Creation of the cosmos And many more This incomparable volume also includes detailed notes, bibliographies, and appendices to help further your knowledge of Japanese myth. Under Metevelis's expert guidance, you can expand your understanding of the Japanese myth system, its structure, and its principal actors, and immerse yourself in the ancient Japanese mysteries of the cosmos.

This 2003 book offers a distinctive overview of the internal and external pressures responsible for the emergence of modern Japan.

This collection of Edo (or Benin) folk tales is an oral history of Edo culture and tradition. It tells the story of how the ancient Edo conceived of the world and how they attempted both to explain the origins of their human existence on earth and to interpret their environment.

Japan Has Seen The Rise & Fall of Emperors, Samurai Warriors, Isolation, Expansion, Defeat, Rebirth & much more.. In this book we explore the magnificent history of Japan from it’s early origins to its rise as a modern super power. Japanese history is rich in culture, legends, characters, mythology and remains one of the most interesting histories in the world. In this book you will understand why the Japanese are so proud, how Japan came to be and much more. While there are many books that explore Japan’s unique history, few are enjoyable. These books can also be hopelessly dry, overly academic, and just downright difficult to follow. Fortunately, this isn’t one of those books. In the pages that follow, you’ll find well written and accurate information without bias. This concise history will respect your time by getting right to the point and giving you what you came to learn. Inside you will discover: Samurai - Who were they, their code + why their legacy lasts to this day The Evolution of Buddhism in Japan & Spiritual Insights Classical Japan (Nara and Heian Periods) & Other Famous Periods Famous Castles - Nagashino Castle, Inabayama Castle & Warrior Monks! A Dark Chapter, Japan and the Axis Powers in World War 2 The Curse of Masakado & The Haunted Grave of a Samurai's Head in Tokyo The Genpei War - The Rise of The Samurai & Battles with Mongol Invasions Colourful Myths & Legends - learn these to truly understand the Japanese people & their culture And much, much more… Whether you're a history enthusiast or just a curious reader..inside you will discover a wealth of Japanese cultural history, mythology and more. So if you want to find out more about Japanese History then this is The Book for You

History, Mythology & More From The World’s Most Interesting Civilizations Join us on a discovery from the ancient origins to the present days of the most fascinating civilizations in Asia. Included in this Amazing 3 Book Collection are: The History of China: A Concise Introduction to Chinese History, Culture, Dynasties, Mythology, Great Achievements & More. History of India: A Concise Introduction to Indian History, Culture, Mythology, Religion, Gandhi, Characters, Empires, Achievements & More. Japanese History: Explore The Magnificent History, Culture, Mythology, Folklore, Wars, Legends, Great Achievements & More Of Japan. These civilizations all feature a history rich in culture, legends, characters, mythology and remain some of the most interesting in the world. In the pages that follow, you’ll find three books all with well written and accurate information without bias. We strive to offer you a refreshing read with reliable, well-referenced information. Inside you will discover The Five Major Eras of Ancient China + The Modern Age Ancient India - Discover the fantastic early civilizations and empires. Plus the cultural takeaways and perceptions from ancient times. Samurai - Who were they, their code + why their legacy lasts to this day Chinese Innovations, World Firsts & Important Inventions The Cultural Revolution - How Mao Zedong and the Communist Party Began Transforming China A Dark Chapter, Japan and the Axis Powers in World War 2 India & The Freedom Struggle - Led by the greats of Gandhi, Bhagat Singh, Subhash Chandra Bose, and so on. Colourful Myths & Legends - learn these to truly understand the Japanese people & their culture And much, much more…. So if you want to find out more about The History of China, Japan and India then start reading this special 3 books in 1 bundle now!

The dynamics of Traditional African Medicine/Magic, kings, mystical warriors,and priests on the rise of the Great Benin empire.