We often think that art works are objects of appreciation as items of beauty. However, many of the art works prior to the Modern Age are rooted in the daily lives and religious faith of people, and images associated with such art works invoked reverence, awe, mesmerism and many other emotions of viewers, in addition to offering aesthetic value. This column introduces the appeal of appreciating Renaissance art while highlighting the images ingrained in people’s lives in those days.
(This column is as of 2018.)
Today, based on a one-dimensional judgment as to whether a study benefits the world, practical science is valued while the humanities including literature are slighted, and the very raison d'être of the humanities is questioned. This column illustrates the meaningfulness of studying the humanities by citing literature as an example and explains the attractions of literature and the value of reading.
(This column is as of 2017.)
“Why do we need to learn history?” One of the objectives of learning history is to understand developments prior to and the background of an event that is currently occurring in the world, in order to get a better picture of it. However, I believe that it is essential in history study to understand that history is multifaceted and diverse in nature and to reconstruct one’s own historical perspective. Taking the example of images of Cleopatra, this column aims to show that there are multiple ways of looking at history and considers the multifaceted nature of history. Then we explore the significance of learning history.
(This column is as of 2015.)
Everyone knows the playwright Shakespeare. He was born and active in the 16th century, and yet his works are still being performed all over the world 400 years later. What sort of person was Shakespeare, whose works have such ageless fascination? What is it about his works that make them so appealing? This column explores Shakespeare’s personality and the appeal of his works.
(This column is as of 2014.)
The Japanese movie industry, which was at its lowest point only 30 years ago, has been gaining momentum in recent years. How did the industry rebound? What is required to further enliven it? This column discusses how the Japanese movie industry can become an international industry.
(This column is as of 2012.)
Taira no Kiyomori and the Destinies of the Minamoto and Taira Clans as Described in the Tale of the Heike
Professor SAEKI Shinichi
NHK’s year-long historical “Taiga drama” series in 2012 is “Taira no Kiyomori.” While Taira no Kiyomori is a hero in this series, he is depicted as an evil man in the Tale of the Heike. In this column, I explore the way in which the tale describes Taira no Kiyomori and the destiny of the Taira clan.
(This column is as of 2012.)
