Japanese Legends and Folklore Samurai Tales Ghost Stories Fairy Tales Book

Product Description

This book is a collection of traditional Japanese stories from the Edo period, compiled by A.B. Mitford, a British diplomat who lived in Japan from the late Edo era to the early Meiji period. Originally published in London in 1871 as "Tales of Old Japan," the book became popular among Western readers, satisfying a growing curiosity about Japanese culture as the country opened to the world. The collection features a diverse range of stories, including historical accounts, classic folktales, legends, superstitions, and moral teachings. Notably, it introduced famous tales such as the story of the 47 Ronin and beloved Japanese folktales like "Momotaro" and "The Tongue-Cut Sparrow" to Western audiences for the first time. The book also includes Mitford's firsthand observations of unique Japanese customs, such as the ritual of seppuku (hara-kiri), providing readers with a rare glimpse into the mysteries of old Japan. As Japan rapidly modernized during the Meiji Restoration, Mitford sought to preserve the fading traditions and stories of the past, making this collection a valuable record of Japanese cultural heritage that continues to captivate readers today.

Product Specification

- Contains 30 stories from the Edo period, including historical accounts, folktales, legends, and moral teachings.
- Includes an appendix with detailed descriptions of traditional Japanese customs such as seppuku, weddings, childbirth, and funerals.
- Features both well-known and lesser-known stories, offering a comprehensive overview of Japanese storytelling traditions.
- Originally published in 1871, the book played a significant role in introducing Japanese culture to the Western world.
- Suitable for readers interested in Japanese history, folklore, and cultural studies.

Included Stories

- The 47 Ronin
- Duel at Kagiya-no-Tsuji
- Tales of Edo-era heroes
- The Tongue-Cut Sparrow
- The Tea Kettle of Bunbuku
- Kachi-Kachi Mountain
- The Old Man Who Made Trees Blossom
- The Battle of the Monkey and the Crab
- Momotaro (Peach Boy)
- The Fox Wedding
- Kintaro
- The Tale of the Grateful Fox
- The Bakeneko Cat Monster Incident
- The Loyal Cat
- The Shaving Fox
- The Raccoon's Money
- The Lord and the Raccoon
- Sermons by Hatoo
- Additional stories on samurai, commoners, and supernatural events
- Appendix: Observations on seppuku, weddings, childbirth, and funerals