The Makioka Sisters
Jun'ichirō Tanizaki · 1948
About this book
A sweeping chronicle of four sisters in a declining Osaka merchant family on the eve of World War II. It offers an intimate portrait of pre-war social customs, seasonal rituals, and the role of family reputation in Japanese society.
Why read this for language learning
"The Makioka Sisters" is an advanced read for Japanese learners, offering a meticulously detailed portrait of a traditional Osaka family navigating the cusp of World War II. Tanizaki's elegant, descriptive prose provides extensive exposure to formal Japanese and vocabulary related to traditional customs, social etiquette, and family life. Learners gain deep cultural insights into pre-war Japanese society, the intricacies of arranged marriages, and the decline of the aristocratic class. This novel is invaluable for understanding the social fabric and aesthetic values of a bygone era.
Vocabulary you will encounter
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