Otogizōshi

Definition

Otogizōshi refers to a genre of Japanese narrative fiction that flourished during the late medieval period, particularly in the 15th and 16th centuries. These short stories often combine elements of folklore, history, and romance, targeting an audience ranging from commoners to the elite. The narratives are characterized by their entertainment value, moral lessons, and exploration of human emotions, reflecting the cultural milieu of premodern Japan.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Otogizōshi emerged during the Muromachi period and served as a bridge between oral storytelling traditions and written literature.
2. The stories often feature supernatural beings or historical figures, blending reality with myth to captivate readers.
3. Moral lessons are a prominent theme in otogizōshi, with narratives designed to impart wisdom or ethical guidance to the audience.
4. The genre was widely popular among the common people, making literature more accessible compared to the aristocratic court literature of the time.
5. Otogizōshi contributed to the evolution of later Japanese literary forms, including kabuki and ukiyo-e art.

Review Questions

• What characteristics define otogizōshi and how do they differentiate it from other narrative forms in Japanese literature?
  • Otogizōshi is characterized by its blend of folklore, history, and romance within short stories that aim to entertain while offering moral lessons. Unlike other narrative forms such as monogatari, which may focus on poetic elements or historical events, otogizōshi prioritizes engaging storytelling with relatable human emotions. This makes otogizōshi more accessible to commoners compared to aristocratic literature, highlighting its role in democratizing Japanese storytelling.
• Analyze how otogizōshi reflects the cultural and social dynamics of premodern Japan during its period of popularity.
  • Otogizōshi reflects the cultural dynamics of premodern Japan by showcasing the values, beliefs, and emotions of its society through engaging narratives. The genre's popularity among diverse social classes indicates a shift towards more inclusive literary forms that catered to common people rather than just the elite. Additionally, the incorporation of supernatural elements and moral lessons illustrates the influence of Buddhism and Shinto beliefs in shaping societal norms and expectations during this era.
• Evaluate the impact of otogizōshi on subsequent Japanese literary traditions and genres.
  • Otogizōshi significantly influenced later Japanese literary traditions by providing a template for storytelling that emphasized entertainment alongside moral instruction. This impact can be seen in genres like kabuki theater and ukiyo-e art, which also incorporate dramatic narratives and visual storytelling. Furthermore, by popularizing accessible literature that resonated with everyday experiences, otogizōshi laid the groundwork for modern Japanese literature's evolution towards realism and character-driven plots.

Related terms

monogatari: A traditional Japanese narrative or tale that encompasses various genres, including poetry and prose, often exploring themes of love and adventure.

setsuwa: Short narratives or anecdotes often based on Buddhist teachings or folklore, serving both as entertainment and moral instruction.

narrative structure: The framework that outlines how a story unfolds, including elements such as plot, character development, and themes.