Abstract

Since ancient times, Buddhism has continuously exerted a significant influence on Japanese thought and culture. This book focuses on the Buddhist ideas underlying Japanese literature. Dissecting the Buddhist thoughts and historical contexts that serve as the source of the works, it explains how they were sublimated into literary pieces and discusses their flavors. Alongside the introduction of renowned literary works, it includes a mini-dictionary spanning 420 entries. This comprehensive encyclopedia uncovers the points of contact between Buddhism and literature, making it an invaluable resource for both literary and philosophical exploration.

Author’s Information

Akio Takeishi: Born in 1929 in Tokyo. He graduated from the Department of Japanese Literature, Faculty of Literature, Hosei University. He has served as a professor at Kochi University, a lecturer at Chiba University, and a lecturer at the Graduate School of Toyo University, etc. He now leads the Buddhist Cultural Research Institute. He holds a doctorate in Literature. His main publications include "A Study on Buddhist Ballads" (Sakuhousha), "Collection of Buddhist Ballads: Regular and Sequel" (Orient Research Institute, Daito Bunka University), "The Charm of Buddhist Literature" (Kouseisha), and more.