Plot summary, “In The Realm of a Dying Emperor” by Norma Field in 7 Minutes - Book Review
0"In the Realm of a Dying Emperor: Japan at Century's End" is a book written by Norma Field, a professor of East Asian Studies at the University of Chicago. Published in 1991, the book provides a critical and nuanced analysis of Japanese society, culture, and politics during a period of significant change and uncertainty.
The book is an exploration of Japan's social and political landscape in the late 1980s and early 1990s, a time marked by economic upheaval, political scandals, and shifting cultural dynamics. Norma Field delves into various aspects of Japanese society, such as the education system, the media, nationalism, and the experiences of marginalized groups.
The title "In the Realm of a Dying Emperor" reflects the sense of transition and uncertainty that characterized Japan during this period. It alludes to the waning power of the imperial institution, which had traditionally held great symbolic significance in Japanese culture, and the broader societal shifts that were taking place.
Norma Field's writing is characterized by her keen observations, deep insights, and engagement with a wide range of sources. She combines personal narratives, interviews, historical analysis, and cultural critique to offer a multi-dimensional view of Japan's changing landscape. The book does not shy away from addressing controversial topics and critiquing aspects of Japanese society and politics.
"In the Realm of a Dying Emperor" is considered an important work in the field of Japanese studies and cultural analysis. It offers readers a window into the complexities of Japanese society during a time of transformation, providing a deeper understanding of the social, cultural, and political forces at play. The book's insights into the challenges and contradictions of contemporary Japan continue to be relevant for those interested in East Asian studies and the dynamics of societal change.