Stephanie Buff
Japanese Literature
October 30
As an English
major subjected to the study of various genres of American Literature, the
foundation and role of Japanese literature in society is an area of interest.
After researching the origins of Japanese literature, it became evident that
various external cultural influences are deeply rooted in Japan’s literature.
“Early works of Japanese literature were heavily influenced by cultural contact
with China and Chinese literature, often written in Classic Chinese”. This
parallels much of the old English literature that was transcribed from Latin,
most specifically in Medieval times. Furthermore, “Indian literature also had
an influence through the diffusion of Buddhism in Japan”. Even with these
outside influences, Japan eventually developed a separate style. However, the
influence of Chinese Literature and the Classic Chinese style remained
prevalent until the end of what was known as the Edo period, which is specified
as the years between 1603 and 1868. In a more modern sense, “since Japan
reopened its ports to Western trading and diplomacy in the 19th
century” Western and Eastern literature have affected each other, and have
continued to do so until the present. The overarching genres of Japan’s
literature can most easily be divided into six periods.
The first genre of
literature is described as “Ancient Literature”. This period continued until
794. The most identifiable aspect of this period came from the Japanese writing
system, or lack there of. “Before the introduction of kanji from China,
Japanese had no writing system.” Essentially, Chinese characters were used in
Japanese syntactical formats, giving writing Chinese appearance, but being read
phonetically as Japanese language. “Chinese characters were further adapted,
creating what is known as manyogana, the earliest form of kana, or syllabic
writing.” The earliest Japanese works were created in what was known as the
Nara period (710-794). Works during this “Ancient Literature” period include, Kojiki, Nihon Shoki and Manyoshu, a poetic anthology. Ancient
Literature was followed by what is know as Classic literature.
Classic Literature
existed between 794 and 1185. Classic works were produced during the Heian
Period, which is referred to as the golden era of art and literature. For
example, Genji Monogatari (early 11th
century), a work written by Murasaki Shikibu, may be considered the pre-eminent
masterpiece of Heian fiction and an early example of a work of fiction in the format
of a novel. Poetic anthologies, like, Kokin
Wakashu, mark the Classic period as well. Furthermore, the Japanese
narrative known as Taketori Monogatari, is considered one of the earliest
examples of photo-science fiction. The tale involves extraterrestrial life and
incorporates a princess protagonist. Following this period, Medieval literature
pursued.
Medieval
literature spanned from 1185 to 1603. Historically, this time was defined by
multiple civil wars that led to the development of warrior class. This made war
tales a prominent topic of literature. Insights into topics of life and death
also dominate this period. The Tale of
the Heike is a work representative of Medieval Literature. Linked verse and
theater became prominent during this time as well. Early Modern Literature
followed the Medieval genre.
Early Modern
Literature (1603-1868) accompanied a time of historical and political peace in
Japan, a time known as the Tokugawa Period. Rising literacy rates placed a
larger emphasis on written works during the 17th and 18th
century. Genres of the time included horror, crime stories, morality tales,
comedy and pornographic works. Literature continued to be published in Chinese
during the Early Modern time.
Modern Literature
is the final period of marked literature. The period extended from 1868-1945. European
literature became a domineering influence on Japanese writing, and became
modernized with the period of marked rapid industrialization. Free verse was
introduced into poetic repertoire. Works began incorporating new intellectual
based themes. English concepts like romantic works began appearing as well.
Even types of English Enlightenment literature became evident.
Discussion Question:
1. Would
you argue that Japanese literature has its own style, or is a sole product of
external influences?
