Japanese historian Louis Perez brings Mikiso Hane s rich and beloved account of early Japanese history up-to-date in this thoroughly revised Second Edition of "Premodern Japan." The text traces the key developments of Japanese history in the premodern period, such as the establishment of the imperial dynasty, early influences from China and Korea, the rise of the samurai class and the establishment of warrior government. It also examines the culture and society of the long Tokugawa period, the rise of Confucianism and Shinto nationalism, and finally, the end of Tokugawa rule. While the text provides many political developments through the early modern period, it also integrates the social, cultural, and intellectual aspects of Japanese history. Perez s updates to the text provide a comprehensive overview of the major social, political, and religious trends in premodern Japan as well as offering the most current scholarship on premodern Japan.
Perez has brought up to date what was already the standard textbook for premodern Japanese history, and in the process has not only done a great service to those of us who teach the subject, but has kept the legacy of Mikiso Hane s alive. Simply put, the book is short enough to keep introductory student s attention, yet detailed enough to be used as a text in advanced courses.
Michael Laver, Rochester Institute of Technology
Perez has provided a welcome update to a concise introduction to premodern Japanese history. Clearly written, the revised version better situates Japan in the context of East Asia and adds new information on women, gender, and relations between the sexes critical for developing a fuller picture of Japan before 1868.
Eric C. Rath, University of Kansas
The revised edition of "Premodern Japan" offers a detailed yet concise introduction to Japan s history from its mythical origins to the overthrow of feudal rule in the mid-19th century. In prose that is highly accessible to college students and non-Japan specialists, the authors not only tell the story of how Japan developed politically, economically, and socially, but also introduces readers to the cultural, religious, and intellectual traditions that continue to shape Japanese life today.
Elizabeth Dorn Lublin, Wayne State University
The late Mikiso Hane was Szold Distinguished Professor Emeritus of History at Knox College.
Louis G. Perez is Distinguished University Professor of History, and Women s and Gender Studies, at Illinois State University.
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