Feminism in Modern Japan

Feminism in Modern Japan is an original and path-breaking book which traces the history of feminist thought and women's activism in Japan from the late nineteenth century to the present. The author offers a fascinating account of those who struck out against convention in the dissemination of ideas which challenged accepted notions of thinking about women, men and society generally. Feminist activism took diverse forms as women questioned their roles as subjects of the Emperor, or explored the limits of citizenship under the more liberal post-war constitution. The story is brought to life through translated extracts of the writings of Japanese feminists. This cogent, carefully documented analysis will be welcomed by students from a range of disciplines including those working on gender studies and feminist history, where nothing comparable is currently available.

'Her insights into feminine perspectives coupled with a solid theoretical approach demonstrate that a book of this nature can be original … Carefully researched, with an easy-to-access index and glossary, this is a welcome reference source for both experts and students.' Monumenta Nipponica

Vera Mackie is Professor of Japanese Studies at Curtin University of Technology. Her publications include Creating Socialist Women in Japan (1997).