Sei Shōnagon‘s Makura no sōshi: A guide for women’s sociality in 11th century Japan

Authors

  • Carolina Negri Ca' Foscari University of Venice

Abstract

This study examines the possibility of interpreting Makura no sōshi (“The Pillow Book,” 11th century) as a guide for the education of aristocratic women, equipping them to navigate the female communities of 11th century Japan, characterized by jealousy and rivalry. Through a close reading of this work, now recognized as a masterpiece of world literature, I will explore topics related to sociality in the Heian period— such as courtship, education, beauty routines, and etiquette— offering insight into the lives of middle - and high-ranking women at the imperial court. Sei Shōnagon’s work also provides an opportunity to delve into the fascinating aesthetics of aristocratic society during the Heian period (794-1185), focusing on the concept of an ‘oblique vision’ which shaped poetic expression, architecture, and even the relationship between men and women.

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Author Biography

Carolina Negri, Ca' Foscari University of Venice

Carolina Negri is Associate Professor of Japanese Language and Literature at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice. Her scholarly interests lie at the intersection of literature and gender studies. She examines the political and cultural roles of ladies-in-waiting in Heian (794-1185) and Kamakura (1185-1333) Japan, delving into how their writings reflect their experiences and the societal structures that shaped their lives. Her research sheds light on the complexities of female identity in a male-dominated society, exploring themes of power, agency, and creativity. Currently, she is interested in the representation of sociality in women’s literature produced in the Heian and Kamakura period. Her contributions as editor-in-chief of a new history of pre-modern Japanese literature further emphasize her dedication to expanding the field and making it accessible to a broader audience. Her publications include: Tra corte, casa e monastero. La vita di una donna nel Giappone del Medioevo (Venezia, 2021), Diario di Murasaki Shikibu (Venezia, 2015), Diario di Izumi Shikibu (Venezia, 2008) and Le memorie della dama di Sarashina (Venezia, 2005).

Carolina can be contacted at: carolina.negri@unive.it

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Published

2025-01-20

Issue

Vol. 28 No. 2 (2024): Kervan 28/2

Section

Articles

License

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