Mapping the Ancient World

1. Explore the relationship of nature and human action in The Pillow Book. To do this, you will need to look at descriptions of nature alongside descriptions of human actions. Are there any moments that bring together human action and nature? What role does nature play in human action?

Thesis/answer example:

Nature is an important theme throughout the text. Although it might seem that nature and human action are separated throughout the text (are very different, are in separate spheres) in fact Shonagon reflects on her life specifically through descriptions of nature. Elaborate on the thesis statement, paying attention to the ‘so what question.’ What are the implications of this?

2. How does cultural context and/or historical context influence the text? How does cultural/historical context affect / influence Shonagon’s text? This question requires background research.

3. In this question you should think about the theme of freedom in the text (this is a broad theme so you can interpret it as you see fit). Here are some ideas: you can look at Shonagon’s freedom to write down her thoughts and feelings, her freedom within her society, etc. You will want to think about the meaning and purpose of personal expression here, and come up with an argument about its meaning in the text.

4. In this question, you should think about Shonagon’s gender and class position within society. Make an argument about how gender and/or class is represented in this text. You may want to bring in the article we briefly looked at together in class (available on JStor): Watching Commoners, Performing Class: Images of the Common People in The Pillow Book of Sei Shonagon.

5. What is the role of satire and/or humor in The Pillow Book? Make an argument in which you consider the purpose, meaning, use of satire and/or humor in the text.