Eerie Tales of Old Edo: Magistrate Negishi Yasumori’s “Mimibukuro” (Ukiyo-e Ed )
Product Description
This English edition of Mimibukuro introduces international readers to a remarkable collection of nearly 1,000 true-to-life anecdotes recorded by Edo period magistrate Negishi Yasumori (1737–1815). Serving in high office, including as Sado magistrate between 1784 and 1787, Negishi carefully documented stories heard from the public, preserving real names of people and places and striving for factual accuracy without embellishment.
Originally compiled in 10 secret volumes, these accounts range from useful, morally instructive tales to eerie and mysterious episodes involving spirits and fox spirits. This book presents a curated selection of the original texts in accessible modern language, complemented by clear commentary, allowing each episode to be enjoyed like a short story and offering a vivid glimpse into the alternative culture of Edo Japan.
The English translation also features a special visual section at the front of the book, showcasing over dozens of famous and rare ukiyo-e prints (public domain) that highlight the supernatural and mysterious themes of the Edo period, making it an engaging cultural reference for readers worldwide.
Description
Product Description
This English edition of Mimibukuro introduces international readers to a remarkable collection of nearly 1,000 true-to-life anecdotes recorded by Edo period magistrate Negishi Yasumori (1737–1815). Serving in high office, including as Sado magistrate between 1784 and 1787, Negishi carefully documented stories heard from the public, preserving real names of people and places and striving for factual accuracy without embellishment.
Originally compiled in 10 secret volumes, these accounts range from useful, morally instructive tales to eerie and mysterious episodes involving spirits and fox spirits. This book presents a curated selection of the original texts in accessible modern language, complemented by clear commentary, allowing each episode to be enjoyed like a short story and offering a vivid glimpse into the alternative culture of Edo Japan.
The English translation also features a special visual section at the front of the book, showcasing over dozens of famous and rare ukiyo-e prints (public domain) that highlight the supernatural and mysterious themes of the Edo period, making it an engaging cultural reference for readers worldwide.
