Writing and Civilization: From Ancient Worlds to Modernity Season 1 Episode 6 Japanese--The World's Most Complex Script

Japanese is known to have one of the most complex writing systems in the world. In the sixth episode of Writing and Civilization: From Ancient Worlds to Modernity season 1, viewers get to explore the historical origins and evolution of the Japanese writing system. From its early origins in Chinese characters to the emergence of Hiragana and Katakana in the 10th century, this episode traces the development of Japanese writing over time in detail.

The episode delves into the fundamental differences between Western and Eastern cultures and how these differences influenced the evolution of the Japanese writing system. Viewers get an insight into how Japanese words are made up of a combination of Chinese characters, hiragana and katakana scripts. The episode explains the role that each of these scripts played in different eras of Japan's history.

The episode provides fascinating information about the Japanese language. For example, viewers learn about the Kanji, the Chinese characters used to write down the meaning of Japanese words. The episode explains how Kanji were first introduced to Japan around the fifth century CE with the spread of Chinese culture. The episode also goes on to show how the Kanji eventually evolved into a unique set of characters, different from the originals in terms of both appearance and meaning.

The episode masterfully showcases how the Japanese writing system has continued to evolve. During Japan's imperial period (710–794 CE), writing was mainly done using Chinese characters. Katakana and hiragana scripts were only used by women to write letters and journals. However, with the emergence of modernity in the 19th century, Japan raced ahead and revolutionized its writing system, culminating in the development of its modern kanji.

The episode goes on to showcase how the complex writing system has affected Japanese society. For instance, how the kanji script has given rise to an industry called "togei," involving the manufacturing of various pottery products, from bowls to teapots, all inscribed with elaborate and precise kanji readings. Also, the episode highlights some creative ways in which Japanese people have made use of their complex writing system.

In conclusion, Writing and Civilization: From Ancient Worlds to Modernity season 1 episode 6 is a must-watch for those interested in the evolution and complexity of the Japanese writing system. Viewers not only get to see how the writing system has evolved over time but also how it has shaped Japanese society and culture. The episode is visually stunning and provides an invaluable insight into one of the most complex writing systems in the world.