Week 7 Reading Notes: The Miraculous Mirror, Part A

Shinto Shrine Mirror

Title: The Miraculous Mirror

Publication: The Romance of Old Japan, 1917

Author: E. W. Champney and F. Champney

Notes: Elizabeth Williams Champney (February 6, 1850—October 13, 1922) was an American author and world traveler. Her son, Edouard Frère Champney (May 4, 1874—June 4, 1929) was born in France and worked as an architect. Elizabeth’s “Romance” books, based on her travels and myths from around the world, were co-written with her son. 

Characters:
Amaterasu, the Sun Goddess
Susa-no-wo, Demon of Fire
Uzume, Goddess of Laughter
Taji-Karaô, The Strong

Places: Japan

Events: 
Amaterasu gives bountiful light and controls the day
While traveling in her shuttle, Susa-no-wo scares Amaterasu
Amaterasu flees and hides in a cave
The people miss the Sun Goddess
Uzume crafts a mirror of gold to trick Amaterasu
Amaterasu, jealous of her reflection, is lured out of the cave
Taji-Karaô blocks of the cave so Amaterasu can’t retreat
Amaterasu returns as the Sun Goddess

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