1.1 Overview of Japanese literary periods and historical timeline

Japan's literary periods mirror its historical timeline, from the isolated Edo era to the modernizing Meiji Restoration. These eras shaped Japan's cultural identity, influencing art, literature, and society in unique ways.

The 20th century saw Japan transform from a feudal society to a global powerhouse. From Taisho democracy to post-war economic miracle, each period left its mark on Japanese literature, reflecting the nation's evolving values and challenges.

Pre-Modern Era

Edo Period (1603-1868)

• Tokugawa shogunate ruled Japan during this period establishing a feudal military dictatorship
• Characterized by strict social order with the samurai class at the top followed by farmers, artisans, and merchants
• Period of relative peace and stability after centuries of warfare allowed for the flourishing of art, culture, and literature (kabuki theater, haiku poetry, ukiyo-e woodblock prints)
• Isolated Japan from foreign influence through the policy of sakoku which restricted foreign trade and contact
• Towards the end of the period, internal tensions and external pressures (arrival of Commodore Perry in 1853) led to the decline of the shogunate and the eventual restoration of imperial rule

Meiji Restoration and Modernization

Meiji Period (1868-1912)

• Emperor Meiji took power after the fall of the Tokugawa shogunate marking the beginning of the modern era in Japan
• Rapid modernization and Westernization efforts aimed at transforming Japan into a world power on par with Western nations
• Abolished the feudal system and adopted a Western-style government with a constitution, parliament, and legal system
• Promoted universal education, built a modern military, and invested heavily in infrastructure and industry

Modernization and Westernization

• Embraced Western ideas, technology, and culture in an effort to catch up with the West and avoid colonization
• Adopted Western clothing, architecture, and social customs (suits, top hats, ballroom dancing)
• Sent students and diplomats abroad to study Western science, technology, and political systems
• Hired foreign experts to help modernize various sectors such as education, military, and industry (Erasmus Peshine Smith, Henry Dyer)

Industrialization

• Rapidly industrialized with government support and investment in key industries such as textiles, mining, and shipbuilding
• Developed a modern transportation network with railroads and steamships to facilitate trade and communication
• Emerged as a major economic power by the early 20th century with a thriving export industry (silk, tea, porcelain)
• Urbanization and the growth of a new middle class changed the social landscape and consumption patterns

20th Century Eras

Taisho Period (1912-1926)

• Marked by a shift towards democracy, liberalism, and cultural experimentation known as the "Taisho Democracy"
• Universal male suffrage was introduced in 1925 expanding political participation
• Flourishing of avant-garde art, literature, and intellectual movements influenced by Western ideas (Cubism, Expressionism, Marxism)
• Growth of consumer culture, mass media, and popular entertainment (radio, cinema, jazz music)
• The Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 devastated Tokyo and surrounding areas leading to a period of reconstruction and modernization

Showa Period (1926-1989)

• Marked by the rise of militarism, World War II, and the post-war economic miracle under Emperor Hirohito
• Increasing military influence in politics led to the invasion of China and the attack on Pearl Harbor drawing Japan into World War II
• Japan's defeat in 1945 led to the U.S. occupation, demilitarization, and the adoption of a new constitution renouncing war
• Post-war economic recovery and high-speed growth transformed Japan into an economic superpower by the 1980s
• Cultural exports such as anime, manga, and video games gained global popularity during this period (Astro Boy, Super Mario Bros.)

Contemporary Periods

Heisei Period (1989-2019)

• Marked by the bursting of the economic bubble, the Lost Decade of economic stagnation, and natural disasters
• The Kobe Earthquake (1995) and the Tokyo subway sarin attack (1995) shocked the nation
• The rise of digital technology, mobile phones, and the internet transformed communication and culture
• Increasing globalization, declining birthrates, and an aging population presented new social and economic challenges
• The Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster (2011) following the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami had far-reaching consequences

Reiwa Period (2019-present)

• Began with the ascension of Emperor Naruhito to the throne following the abdication of his father, Emperor Akihito
• Continues to face challenges such as an aging population, economic stagnation, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic
• Increasing focus on sustainability, work-life balance, and gender equality in response to changing social values
• Preparations for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics (held in 2021 due to the pandemic) showcased Japan's resilience and adaptability
• Ongoing debates about constitutional revision, particularly regarding the role of the military in the post-war era