Corea: The Hermit Nation

"Corea: The Hermit Nation" by William Elliot Griffis is a historical examination of Korea's past, written in the late 1800s, that uncovers the story of a land known as the "hermit nation." This book charts Korea's history, from historical times through middle age, outlining its government and the structure of its society, and its relationship with powerful countries around it. Griffis shines a light on how Korea grew as a country, where its people came from, and what life was like during its isolated period, giving a full picture of Korea's story, focusing on Korean power struggles and the impact of nearby countries. The opening pages introduce the geographical and historical background of Korea, highlighting the nation’s complicated role as a country shut off from the world. Griffis points out the interesting mix of Korea being isolated while also having important cultural exchanges helping to understand Korea's fight to rule itself.