Dressing Over Japanese History Book Deciphering Masculinity of Sovereignty

Product Description

This book offers a fresh perspective on the history of clothing in Japan by focusing on the people who wear garments, rather than viewing clothing as static objects. It explores how the act of selecting and wearing specific attire has enabled communication and shaped social relationships throughout Japanese history. The author highlights that, in ancient times, distinctions in clothing were based more on social class than on gender, emphasizing the role of clothing as a symbol of power. The book discusses how these dynamics influenced the structure of Japanese royal authority and the evolution of aesthetic values. Additionally, it sheds light on the historical significance of cross-dressing in Japan, providing insights that are particularly relevant to contemporary discussions on gender expression in Western societies. This is the English translation of the original 1998 Japanese publication, "Reinterpreting Japanese History Through Clothing: Male Attire and Royal Authority."

Product Specification

- English translation of a 1998 Japanese historical study
- Focuses on the social and communicative roles of clothing in Japan
- Examines the relationship between attire, power, and class
- Includes analysis of cross-dressing and its historical significance
- Offers context for current global discussions on gender and clothing