Jun'ichi Isomae is Associate Professor of Historical Studies at Japan Women's University.
A landmark study. Its sweeping reassessment of the scriptural hermeneutics of the ancient founding myths of Japan and their continued appropriation, use and abuse, over the ages contributes to a new scholarly approach towards the redefinition of religion as an integral part of material and political culture. It will, no doubt, become a standard reference for years to come. - Hent de Vries, Johns Hopkins University A highly readable and deeply intelligent book which will capture the attention of anyone with a critical interest in questions of myth, truth, history, power, scripture, and what it is to be human. - Brian Bocking, University College Cork