| NOTA |
(*)(Translated by Eileen M. Lowe) (★)(日本社会史 : 鎌倉ー安土桃山, From the tenth century onwards, the emperors of Japan gradually lost power.The local lords or clan chiefs waged ceaseless war against each other, fostering an atmosphere of civil strife, while the court, wholly steeped in Chinese culture, seemed to take no further interest in the affairs of the nation. In 1191, the Minamoto clan emerged victorious and finally imposed its rule, and an era of austerity and vigour, reminiscent of the chivalrous ideal and of loyalty to traditions, succeeded the indolence and luxury of the previous period. Hard work, respect for the hierarchy, the cult of nationalism, a sense of self-sacrifice and duty -such was the new trend. A samurai would, without warning, cut down there and then anyone who did not conform. Meanwhile, the people found a reason for living and for hoping, because they could free themselves from Chinese influence and forge themselves a soul. Furthermore, the Buddhist doctrine of Zen made its appearance. It gave mystical support to the samurai, and the Japanese spirit was now directed towards a political and religious asceticism that had an enormous influence on all aspects of art, thought, and daily life. In this fascinating book, Louis Frederic, acknowledged authority on the ´classical´ period of Japanese history, reveals to us what the life of the Japanese people was like during these five centuries and shows how a transformation of heart and mind produced a civilization as original as it was profound. Here, with remarkable clarity, we see daily life in medieval Japan in all its myriad aspects, including even such matters as food, make-up, and hygiene. We are given enlightening views of the city and the country, occupations and crafts, the family system, the position of women in medieval society, religion, and the way of the warrior. Indeed, through his skillful presentation of detail, the author brings us into the living presence of the people of a remote but astonishingly interesting age. The book, admirably translated from the French by Eileen M. Lowe, is illustrated with numerous plates and line drawings.) |
BASE de DATOS, Biblioteca del Centro Cultural de la Embajada de Japon
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