Prentenboek over helden en heldinnen 1782

This is the cover of “Picture Book About Heroes and Heroines” by Torii Kiyonaga, an artist working in Japan in the late 1700s and early 1800s. As part of the Ukiyo-e movement, Kiyonaga helped develop a genre of art which explored the floating world of everyday life and leisure. This book cover offers a unique look into the cultural values of the Edo period. It reflects a society that was structured around rigid class hierarchies, with samurai warriors at the top. The title, “Heroes and Heroines,” suggests stories that reinforced ideals of bravery, loyalty, and honor, especially as they pertained to the samurai class. These tales of heroism and valor often served to legitimize the existing social order, promoting certain behaviors and moral standards. The book’s existence speaks to an interest in shaping cultural identity through narratives. The stories would remind people of their roles and duties, reinforcing a sense of collective identity and shared values.