2023/12/14
A talk event featuring author and Keio University alumni Hiroshi Aramata (1970 graduate of the Faculty of Law) and French literature scholar and Professor Emeritus of Meiji University Shigeru Kashima was held on December 11 at the North Hall on the Mita Campus of Keio University. This event was held by the Hayakawa Foundation, Hayakawa Publishing Corporation, and Keio University to commemorate the publication of Mr. Aramata's biographical novel about Yukichi Fukuzawa, "Fukuō Muchūden" (Hayakawa Publishing).
The event began with opening remarks from Hiroshi Hayakawa, President and CEO of Hayakawa Publishing Corporation, followed by a greeting from Juro Iwatani, Vice-President of Keio University, before proceeding to the talk event.
Mr. Aramata and Mr. Kashima, who have known each other for a long time as book collectors, engaged in a lively discussion that went beyond just the highlights and commentary of "Fukuō Muchūden." They also shared behind-the-scenes stories from the writing process, as well as anecdotes about how they met and what they have in common.
Finally, while viewing materials brought by Mr. Aramata—such as a hanging scroll of the "Shūshin Yōryō: Fukuzawa's Moral Code," a set of moral principles published in 1900, and a baby carriage brought back from Fukuzawa's second trip to the United States in 1867—the speakers explored Yukichi Fukuzawa's character, filled with love for his family, and the society he aimed to create.
The venue was filled with occasional laughter and a friendly atmosphere from beginning to end. You can watch the event from the link below.
Commemorative Lecture for "Fukuō Muchūden": Hiroshi Aramata × Shigeru Kashima Talk Event (Hayakawa Publishing Official YouTube Account)