Subject
Civilization, Oriental Books
Best books
Clarence Hamilton Poe
Where Half The World Is Waking Up The Old and the New in Japan, China, the Philippines, and India, Reported With Especial Reference to American Conditions
"Where Half The World Is Waking Up" by Clarence Hamilton Poe is a travelogue and cultural analysis written in the early 20th century. The work focuses on the significant transformations occurring in Asian countries, including Japan, China, the Philippines, and India, particularly reflecting on their interactions with American society. Poe aims to provide an insightful exploration of the contrasts between ancient customs and modern developments in these regions. At the start of the book, Poe sets the stage for his journey by underscoring the importance of understanding Asia, home to half the world's population, during a period of rapid change. He details his travels and the various influences shaping countries like Japan, emphasizing cultural contradictions and societal norms that are often reversed from Western expectations. The opening chapters introduce readers to Japan's complex identity, filled with modern advancements juxtaposed with deeply rooted traditions, illustrated through observations about customs, political dynamics, and daily life. Poe's vivid anecdotes and interactions with locals help to create a richly textured portrayal of a region in transition.
G. Lowes (Goldsworthy Lowes) Dickinson
Appearances: Being Notes of Travel
"Appearances: Being Notes of Travel" by G. Lowes Dickinson is a travelogue written in the early 20th century. The work reflects on Dickinson's observations and experiences during his travels through Eastern countries such as India and China, as well as his contrasting views on Western civilization. It seeks to explore cultural themes and the interactions between Eastern and Western societies, highlighting the author's contemplation on identity, colonialism, and the nature of civilization. The opening of the book introduces the author's philosophy on travel as a means of understanding different cultures. Dickinson expresses a candid awareness of the "system" that governs the actions and beliefs of English expatriates in India, revealing a critical stance towards the rigidity of colonial social structures. He observes interactions between his traveling companions and local populations, discussing the nature of English identity as perceived both by the English themselves and their foreign counterparts. By establishing a dialogue about culture, identity, and societal norms, Dickinson sets the tone for a thoughtful exploration of the profound differences he encounters in his travels.
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