Title
Before the Dawn,Used
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Although Before the Dawn is the story of the authors family and of the Meiji restoration, it is much more than that; the aftermath of the events that form its context have fundamentally altered the nature of the world we live in. Its author was a man of sophistication and erudition even though he was not given to virtuoso displays of either quality. He created this novel out of his personal and artistic needs, and out of his sense of the need of Japan and the world community to know the story he tells in it. Japan has been richly served by the original. But Toson had a worldwide as well as a Japanese audience in mind when he wrote Before the Dawn. This translation has been done in the hope of contributing to that undertaking.'Before the Dawn looks back on the adventure, turmoil, and tragedy of the midnineteenth century with a clear and unsentimental vision, but it speaks of those times in tones of tact, humility, and deference. It is a celebration of the humanity of its characters and the richness, complexity, and diversity of the lives they lived during the final years of the Tokugawa shogunate and the first two decades of the Meiji era. For all the weight of its historical concerns, it maintains its lyrical tone even when the subject is external threat, internal political turmoil, the grinding hardship of maintaining the old post system, or the bitter disappointments that the new age brought so many of those who had worked hardest and sacrificed most to bring it into being. It has been followed not only by scholarly studies but also by an immense outpouring of historical fiction, family and local histories, and other publications drawing on the rich store of old diaries and official records preserved throughout the country. These later works often illuminate the period from points of view that were not accessible to any of Tosons characters, but Before the Dawn remains the standard against which all others are measured.' from the Introduction
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- Q: What is 'Before the Dawn' about? A: 'Before the Dawn' is a historical novel that explores the author's family and the Meiji restoration era in Japan. It reflects on the adventure and turmoil of the mid-nineteenth century, highlighting the human experiences during the final years of the Tokugawa shogunate.
- Q: Who is the author of 'Before the Dawn'? A: The author of 'Before the Dawn' is Shimazaki Toson, a well-regarded figure in Japanese literature known for his sophisticated storytelling.
- Q: What are the key features of 'Before the Dawn'? A: 'Before the Dawn' is a used book in good condition, featuring 816 pages and published in paperback format. It offers a lyrical narrative that balances historical concerns with character depth.
- Q: When was 'Before the Dawn' published? A: 'Before the Dawn' was published on July 1, 1988, and is available in a reprint edition.
- Q: What is the condition of the book? A: The book is classified as 'New,' ensuring that it is in excellent condition for readers.
- Q: Is 'Before the Dawn' suitable for academic study? A: Yes, 'Before the Dawn' is often referenced in scholarly studies and has inspired a wealth of historical fiction and research, making it valuable for academic study.
- Q: What themes are explored in 'Before the Dawn'? A: The novel explores themes of historical change, human resilience, and the complexities of life during a transformative period in Japan's history.
- Q: Does 'Before the Dawn' have any unique literary qualities? A: 'Before the Dawn' is noted for its clear and unsentimental vision, as well as its lyrical tone, which enhances the storytelling of historical events.
- Q: Can I find insights into the lives of its characters? A: Yes, the book provides rich insights into the lives and struggles of its characters, depicting their humanity amid the backdrop of significant historical events.
- Q: Is there a translation available for 'Before the Dawn'? A: Yes, 'Before the Dawn' has been translated to reach a wider audience, contributing to the understanding of its historical and cultural context.