Sketches of Japanese Manners and Customs

** "Sketches of Japanese Manners and Customs" by J. M. W. (Jacob Mortimer Wier) Silver is an engaging window into 19th-century Japan, chronicling the observations of a Royal Marines Lieutenant. The book paints a vivid picture of Japanese society through the eyes of an outsider, revealing the intricate traditions, vibrant festivals like the 'Oki-don-tako' and the 'Omatsurie', and the nuances of daily life. Silver explores diverse facets from family dynamics and marriage rituals to the honor-bound existence of the aristocracy, and even the solemn practice of 'hara kiri'. With a blend of curiosity and respect, the narrative invites readers to witness a culture undergoing transformation, offering a rare glimpse into a world where ancient customs meet burgeoning Western influence. **