Maruyama Masao and Katō Shūichi on Translation and Japanese Modernity

Passing references to translation are quite commonplace in Japan, where intellectuals remain keenly aware of the pivotal role it has played in Japan’s modernization process. Interestingly, however, extended studies of the Japanese culture of translation have been something of a rarity.1 Translation and Japanese Modernity (Hon’yaku to Nihon no kindai, 1998) by Maruyama Masao (1914-96) and Katō Shūichi (1919-2008) stands out as a valuable exception. This article introduces the book to English-language readers and highlights its most significant contributions to our understanding of modern Japan as a culture of translation.