Social Trauma, Narrative Memory, and Recovery in Japanese Literature and Film

This book provides a comprehensive analysis of major works in Japanese literature and film through the interpretive lens of trauma and PTSD studies, emphasizing the role of protagonists in managing to effect partial recovery by composing memoirs and pioneering alternative means of orally communicating, working through, and overcoming debilitating personal histories of traumatization and victimization. It sheds important new light on canonical Japanese novels and films and will be of interest to students and scholars of Japanese film and literature, as well as those of trauma studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 268 pages
Publication date: 19 July 2019
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the profound analysis of major works in Japanese literature and film, exploring them through the lens of trauma and PTSD studies. With a critical focus on the psychodynamics and enduring psychosocial effects of social trauma, it evaluates the themes of dissociation, failed mourning, and psychological defense fantasies. Building upon previous research, this book emphasizes the pivotal role of protagonists in their journey towards partial recovery by composing memoirs that transform dissociated traumatic memories into coherent narratives or by pioneering alternative methods of orally communicating, working through, and overcoming debilitating personal histories of traumatization and victimization. Through this innovative critical approach, the book sheds valuable new light on canonical Japanese novels and films, enabling a deeper understanding and appreciation of the integral psychosocial aspects of these traumatic narratives. This book appeals to students and scholars of Japanese film and literature, as well as those interested in trauma studies, offering a rich and insightful exploration of these complex themes.

Weight: 536g
Dimension: 164 x 242 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138019362