history of jp literature Flashcards
What was early Japanese literature inspired by?
The cultural connection with China and Indian literature
Early Japanese literature was influenced by classical Chinese literature.
What is the earliest known Japanese literature?
Kojiki (Record of Ancient Matters)
Kojiki is the oldest known extant chronicle in Japan, combining history and mythology.
What is Nihon Shoki?
The second oldest book of Japanese classical history, explaining the origin of the world
Written eight years after Kojiki.
What does Man’yoshu translate to?
Collection of Ten Thousand Leaves
It is the oldest book of Japanese poetry, dating back to the middle 7th century.
What type of content does Man’yoshu contain?
4,500 poems composed by people ranging from commoners to emperors
Compiled around 759.
What is Kokinshu/Kokin Wakashu?
The first poem anthology commissioned by an emperor
Its preface paid tribute to the vast possibilities of literature.
What is the term for classical Japanese poetry?
Waka
During the Heian Period, waka recitation contests were hosted by Japanese royals and aristocrats.
What is Wakan Roeishu?
A notable work from the Heian Period, compiling The Tale of Genji and The Pillow Book
It reflects the literary culture of the time.
What is Shin Kokin Wakashu?
New Collection of Ancient and Modern Times
Completed during the Kamakura-Muromachi Period and commissioned by retired Emperor Go-Toba.
What poetic form was introduced during the Edo Period?
Renga
Renga is a linked-verse Japanese poetry form that evolved into haikai.
What is Haikai?
A jocular form of renga
It emerged in the sixteenth century.
Who perfected the haiku form?
Matsuo Basho
He was a renowned 17th-century poet known for the 5-7-5 syllable structure.
What is the structure of a Haiku?
5-7-5 pattern with 17 syllables
It consists of three lines with the specified syllable counts.
What new poetry style emerged in the Meiji Period?
Freeform poetry style due to Western influence
This led to the development of Jiyu-shi and Shintai-shi.
What does Jiyu-shi refer to?
Freestyle poetry
It reflects the influence of Western literary styles.
