Ruth Benedict's book The Chrysanthemum and the Sword
The Chrysanthemum and the Sword offers a thorough examination of Japanese culture. The author looked at certain cultural practices and habits that make Japan distinct and are difficult for Westerners to comprehend. The author identifies the details of Japanese thinking on social and private life in chapters three through thirteen of the book and assesses its significance in the post-World War II world context.
Japan's Hierarchical Culture
The author brings up the problem of Japan's hierarchical culture as being backwards in comparison to the revolutionary nature of Western civilization, which was introduced with the American occupation, in chapter three.
Meiji Reform and Hierarchy
Then, Benedict concentrates on Meiji reform that created the form of the government by maintaining 'proper stations', meaning hierarchy. In the next two chapters, loyalty and obligation on the issue of debt appear as inevitable traits of Japanese people that are different from Chinese understanding of obedience (jen).
Giri: Duties and Obligations
Furthermore, the author refers to giri, meaning duties that require repayment in meeting obligations to all sorts of people. In chapter eight, this notion develops into the reputation that means keeping the name clean as a noble ideal of 'true dignity'.
Japanese Ethical Code
In referring to the ethical code, Benedict shows that there is high tension both within Japanese society and in personal life; however, they are not as moralistic as Western people are. In chapter 10, the dilemma of virtue arises, meaning the existence of several 'circles' that condition revealing sincerity. Moreover, this chapter defines shame as the root of virtue.
Self-Discipline and Expertness
Chapter 11 refers to self-discipline in the form of special physical and mental training to achieve 'expertness' and perfection. Then, the fact that parents allow Japanese children maximum freedom is explained by referring to the concept of 'self without shame' and mirror.
Recommendations for Governing Japanese People
Finally, Benedict clarifies the recommendations to Americans to govern Japanese people after the VJ-Day.
In Conclusion
In short, the book is an interesting component in the understanding of the pro-America stance on the social and cultural peculiarities of modern Japan. Tracking their way from being a natural chrysanthemum to a self-responsible sword, Benedict explained some mysteries about Japanese culture.
Work Cited
Benedict, Ruth. The Chrysanthemum and the Sword: Patterns of Japanese Culture. New York: Mariner Books, 2005.
