Monsters, Animals, and Other Worlds: A Collection of Short Medieval Japanese Tales

Monsters, Animals, and Other Worlds is a collection of twenty-five medieval Japanese tales of border crossings and the fantastic, featuring demons, samurai, talking animals, amorous plants, and journeys to supernatural realms. It illuminates a rich world of literary, Buddhist, and visual culture largely unknown today outside of Japan, and is the most comprehensive compendium of short medieval Japanese fiction in English. The otogizōshi, or Muromachi tales, date from the fourteenth through seventeenth centuries and are often richly illustrated in a painted-scroll format. They express Buddhist beliefs and provide practical knowledge and moral education to navigate medieval Japanese society. The works are organized into three thematically overlapping sections, and feature images from the original scroll paintings, illustrated manuscripts, and printed books.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 20 February 2018
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Monsters,Animals,and Other Worlds is a captivating collection of twenty-five medieval Japanese tales that delve into the realm of border crossings and the extraordinary. Within these tales, readers are transported to a world filled with demons, samurai, talking animals, amorous plants, and extraordinary journeys to supernatural realms. This remarkable compendium stands as the most comprehensive source of short medieval Japanese fiction available in English, shedding light on a rich and largely unknown world of literary, Buddhist, and visual culture, primarily confined to Japan.

These captivating stories, known as otogizōshi or Muromachi tales, originate from the fourteenth to seventeenth centuries, during the Muromachi period (1337–1573). Often adorned with intricate painted scroll illustrations, these vernacular narratives possess a profound depth of meaning, often expressing Buddhist beliefs and imparting valuable practical knowledge and moral education that were essential for navigating the complex social dynamics of medieval Japan. The otogizōshi mark a significant milestone in the evolution of Japanese literature, as they seamlessly blend various narrative styles, including court tales, military accounts, anecdotes, and tales about the divine origins of shrines and temples. By amalgamating these diverse elements, the otogizōshi created a new genre that bridged the gap between book genres, parlor arts, and the culture of itinerant storytellers and performers.

The works presented in this collection are organized into three thematically overlapping sections: "Monsters, Warriors, and Journeys to Other Worlds," "Buddhist Tales," and "Interspecies Affairs." Each translation is preceded by a concise introduction, accompanied by captivating images sourced from original scroll paintings, illustrated manuscripts, and printed books. These visual elements enhance the reader's experience, allowing them to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of medieval Japanese culture.

In conclusion, Monsters, Animals, and Other Worlds is a treasure trove of literary and cultural riches, offering a window into the fascinating world of medieval Japan. Through its collection of captivating tales, this compendium provides a comprehensive exploration of literary, Buddhist, and visual traditions, shedding light on a period largely overlooked by Western scholars. By delving into the realms of demons, samurai, talking animals, amorous plants, and supernatural realms, this book invites readers to embark on a journey of discovery, expanding their understanding of Japanese history, literature, and culture.

Weight: 732g
Dimension: 157 x 234 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231184472