2) Could at least elaborate when making claims like "In contrast to the Indians, who have always been absorbed with metaphysical and religious speculation and scarcely at all with history, the Chinese are among the world's greatest record-keepers" or how China had a "civilizing influence" on Japan during the development of Nara.Īs textbooks goes this is one of the best ones I've ever come across. The book would have more value if 1) Varley could decide whether he is writing a book on Japanese history or on the history of Japanese art. Author frequently seems to write from the perspective that China created Japan via religion, bureaucratic systems, art, and writing systems. Example: Varley explains the general pattern, style, and set up of a Buddhist temple, but provides no possible factor, reason, or theory on why the Soga clan would suddenly oppose reform after years pursuing it under Prince Shotoku, and simply states that they did so. However author sometimes writes in extensive detail about art periods and styles, while neglecting other aspects of history. Varley's Japanese culture does have some educational value as far as explaining things like art history and basic aspects of Shinto.
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