Glynne Walley

Walley interrogates the interplay between morality and entertainment in classical Japanese fiction, with a particular focus on the works of Kyokutei Bakin. His scholarly work emphasizes the exploration of moral and philosophical themes within nineteenth-century Japanese literature, challenging the Anglophone neglect of this genre. By examining Bakin's narratives, he highlights how fiction serves both educational and entertainment purposes, bringing critical attention to the ethical considerations embedded in these stories.\n\nHis methods include detailed analyses and translations that address the linguistic complexities of classical Japanese literature. Walley's translation of "Eight Dogs, or "Hakkenden": Part One—An Ill-Considered Jest" is a significant achievement, tackling the intricate stylistic registers of Bakin’s work, which integrates elements from Japanese and Chinese literary traditions. This approach makes Bakin’s texts accessible to a broader audience and encourages a deeper understanding of their cultural and philosophical dimensions. Meanwhile, his book "Good Dogs: Edification, Entertainment, and Kyokutei Bakin's Nansō Satomi hakkenden" provides an unprecedented analysis of Bakin's epic, cementing Walley’s status as a leading scholar in the field.\n\nReaders and scholars interested in Japanese literature, translation studies, and ethical discourse in fiction benefit from Walley's contributions. His work not only enriches the understanding of classical Japanese narratives but also inspires further scholarly inquiry into the societal roles of literature. Recognition of his expertise is reflected in accolades such as the Japan-U.S. Friendship Commission Prize for the Translation of Japanese Literature and the William F. Sibley Memorial Subvention Award for Japanese Translation, underscoring the impact of his translations and research in both academic and literary circles.