The Major Plays of Chikamatsu [Paperback]

Donald Keene (Translator)

Editorial Reviews

Language Notes

Text: English (translation)
Introduction: Japanese --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

About the Author

Donald Keene, Shincho Professor of Japanese Literature at Columbia University, has written, edited, or translated more than thirty books, many of them published by Columbia University Press. Keene has received numerous honors in both the United States and Japan, and was recently elected to the American Academy and Institute of Arts and Letters.

Product Details

• Paperback: 485 pages
• Publisher: Columbia University Press (April 15, 1961)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0231074158
• ISBN-13: 978-0231074155
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 5.9 x 1.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.5 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,057,194 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Timeless theater in any language, November 12, 2007

By 

Paul Hunt - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Major Plays of Chikamatsu (Paperback)

Donald Keenes' collection of Chikamatsu plays is good translation with very valuable commentary that showcases the brilliance of Bunraku. Leave it to the Japanese to create masterpiece theater with puppets. For us English speakers a book like this brings us close to understanding the cultural context and literary brilliance of the form. I recommend using this book as a libretto for viewing an actual performance. Short of going to Japan where national theaters still perform this treasured repertoire you could check out the only video I know of available at amazon (The Lovers Exile VHS or DVD)