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Memoir of Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu and Tokugawa Japan: Translations from the Asian

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Published in In The Shelter Of The Pine: A Memoir Of Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu And Tokugawa Japan (Translations From The Asian Classics)

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Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu (1658-1714) was a prominent figure in Tokugawa Japan, serving as a senior advisor to the shogun and playing a key role in shaping the country's politics and culture during the Genroku era (1688-1704).

In the Shelter of the Pine: A Memoir of Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu and Tokugawa Japan (Translations from the Asian Classics)

by G. G. Rowley

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2643 KB
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Screen Reader	:	Supported
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Print length	:	127 pages

Yoshiyasu's memoir, written in the form of a diary, provides a unique and invaluable account of his life and times. The memoir, along with other historical documents, has been translated into English by Dr. Pamela L. Crosby, an expert on Japanese history and culture, and is now available in a single volume.

This volume is a valuable resource for scholars and students of Japanese history. It provides a detailed account of Yoshiyasu's life and career, as well as insights into the political and social dynamics of Tokugawa Japan.

Yoshiyasu's Early Life and Career

Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu was born in 1658 into a samurai family of modest means. His father, Yanagisawa Mitsuyasu, was a retainer of the daimyo (feudal lord) of Himeji Castle, Honda Tadamasa.

Yoshiyasu showed promise from a young age, and he was sent to Edo (modern-day Tokyo) to study Confucianism and other subjects. He quickly gained a reputation for his intelligence and ambition.

In 1680, Yoshiyasu was introduced to the fifth Tokugawa shogun, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi. Tsunayoshi was impressed by Yoshiyasu's abilities, and he appointed him to a minor position in the shogunate.

Yoshiyasu quickly rose through the ranks, and by the late 1680s, he was one of Tsunayoshi's most trusted advisors. He was involved in a wide range of policy decisions, including the shogunate's response to the Great Genroku Earthquake of 1703.

Yoshiyasu's Role in Genroku Culture

In addition to his political responsibilities, Yoshiyasu was also a patron of the arts and culture. He was a close friend of the playwright Chikamatsu Monzaemon, and he supported the development of kabuki theater.

Yoshiyasu was also a collector of art and literature. His collection included paintings, calligraphy, and rare books. He was also a skilled poet and calligrapher.

Yoshiyasu's patronage of the arts helped to create a vibrant cultural scene in Edo. He was a major figure in the Genroku era, which is considered to be one of the high points of Japanese culture.

Yoshiyasu's Later Years and Legacy

Yoshiyasu retired from politics in 1709, and he died in 1714 at the age of 56. He left behind a legacy of service to the shogunate and a reputation as a patron of the arts.

Yoshiyasu's memoir is a valuable historical document that provides insight into the life and times of one of Tokugawa Japan's most important figures. It is a must-read for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture.

Translations from the Asian

The translations in this volume are based on the original Japanese texts. Crosby has provided extensive annotations to help readers understand the historical context and cultural significance of the documents.

The translations are clear and concise, and they accurately convey the meaning of the original texts. This volume is a valuable resource for scholars and students of Japanese history.

The Memoir of Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu and Tokugawa Japan is a must-read for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture. It provides a detailed account of Yoshiyasu's life and career, as well as insights into the political and social dynamics of Tokugawa Japan.

The translations in this volume are clear and concise, and they accurately convey the meaning of the original texts. This volume is a valuable resource for scholars and students of Japanese history.

In the Shelter of the Pine: A Memoir of Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu and Tokugawa Japan (Translations from the Asian Classics)

by G. G. Rowley

5 out of 5