Studies in the Comic Spirit in Modern Japanese Fiction

by Joel R. Cohn

Unlike traditional Japanese literature, which has a rich tradition of comedy, modern Japanese literature is commonly associated with a high seriousness of purpose. In this path-breaking study, Joel R. Cohn analyzes works by three writers--Ibuse Masuji (1898-1993), Dazai Osamu (1909-1948), and Inoue Hisashi (1934- )--whose works constitute a relentless assault on the notion that comedy cannot be part of serious literature.

Cohn focuses on...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0674847113
• ISBN13: 9780674847118
• Release Date: May 1998
• Publisher: Harvard University Press
• Length: 253 Pages
• Weight: 1.08 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 6.3" x 9.3"