Day 2: Gather Intelligence

Previously

You asked to study Japan and the librarian got you started. You both do not say anything extra. But it is clear that the librarian is your contact (1 Start).

You studied (1A, 1B, 1C).

At closing time, a guard thrashed you (1 End).

Story

You wake up at night (2 Start) and fear the plight of persecuted priests when Japan was closed to the world. You still want to continue.

You wonder how did Japan respond to the end of closed country policy (2A, 2B). And preserve its identity (2C)?

At lunch (2 Middle), there is a Quiz from the librarian.

You study and find books are the key (2D). With sincerity, disclosure (2E), and emptying self (2F), autobiographical novels express Japanese culture.

You take a bus ride home and question how these novels are relevant to your life (2 End).

Japanese samurai meet Americans at the Japanese Embassy
The Japanese Embassy with naval officers at the Washington Navy Yard in 1860

Skills to Hone

  • 1.2: State the Japanese autobiographical novel (shishosetsu)’s three main traits (sincerity, disclosure, and emptying self)
  • 2.1: Describe how the threat of colonial subjugation led to reform.
  • 2.2: Explain Japan imported foreign technology.
  • 3.3: Recognize how a national philosophy (e.g. kokutai) or cultural creed can override central principles of democracies.

Day 2 Commence