Manyōshū

Definition

The manyōshū is the oldest existing collection of Japanese poetry, compiled in the Nara period around the 8th century. This anthology consists of over 4,500 poems, showcasing a wide range of poetic styles and themes, reflecting the culture, nature, and emotions of its time. It is significant for its role in preserving early Japanese literature and language, influencing later poetic forms and cultural expression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The manyōshū was compiled by multiple authors and is believed to have been assembled by a poet named Otomo no Yakamochi, although it includes works from various poets across different classes.
2. The poems in the manyōshū cover diverse themes such as love, nature, sorrow, and everyday life, providing valuable insights into the social and emotional landscape of early Japan.
3. Unlike later collections that favored more refined styles, manyōshū includes both formal and colloquial language, showcasing the linguistic diversity of the time.
4. The manyōshū has had a lasting influence on Japanese literature and poetry, inspiring countless poets and serving as a reference for stylistic and thematic development in subsequent works.
5. The collection is divided into 20 books or sections, with each book containing a unique mix of poems categorized by themes or authorship.

Review Questions

• How does the manyōshū reflect the cultural and emotional landscape of the Nara period?
  • The manyōshū serves as a mirror to the cultural and emotional landscape of the Nara period by capturing a variety of themes such as love, nature, and daily life. The diverse range of poems provides insights into how people expressed their feelings and experiences during this time. This collection not only showcases the poetic form prevalent in that era but also illustrates societal norms and emotional depth prevalent among different social classes.
• Discuss the significance of manyōshū's poetic styles and how they differ from those in later anthologies.
  • The significance of manyōshū lies in its diverse poetic styles, which encompass both formal waka and more colloquial expressions. Unlike later anthologies that tended to favor more refined or stylized poetry, the manyōshū captures a rawness and authenticity that reflects everyday experiences. This blend of styles illustrates the evolution of Japanese poetry, laying foundational elements for future works while maintaining a connection to the common people's voices.
• Evaluate the impact of the manyōshū on subsequent Japanese literary traditions and its role in shaping national identity.
  • The impact of manyōshū on subsequent Japanese literary traditions is profound as it established benchmarks for both poetic form and thematic exploration. By preserving early Japanese language and poetry styles, it shaped national identity by connecting later generations to their cultural heritage. The collection’s influence can be seen in how poets adopted its themes and structures over centuries, contributing to an evolving yet cohesive literary tradition that continues to resonate with modern Japanese identity.

Related terms

Nara period: A historical period in Japan from 710 to 794 characterized by the establishment of a permanent capital in Nara and significant developments in art, culture, and government.

Waka: A traditional form of Japanese poetry consisting of 31 syllables, typically structured in five lines with a 5-7-5-7-7 pattern, prominent in the manyōshū.

Kanshi: Japanese poetry written in classical Chinese, which was also included in the manyōshū, reflecting the influence of Chinese culture on Japanese literary traditions.