Literature
How many unique poems compose the Omoro Sōshi collection?
What is 1144
A compilation of ancient poems and songs, written in hiragana with some simple kanji. First compiled in 1531.
What is Omoro Sōshi
In what year were the Ryukyu Islands annexed by Japan?
What is 1879
Author of "Mr. Saito of Heaven Building," known for writing about Okinawan lives outside of Ryukyu.
What is Yamanokuchi Baku
Busy pattern of repeating nature motifs that is worn during traditional Ryukyuan festivals and traditional arts performances.
What is Bingata
The domain that conquered the islands in 1609.
What is Satsuma
This syllabic pattern (8-8-8-6) commonly used, creates a distinctive rhythm and structure in this traditional form.
What is Ryūka
Musical theater created based on Okinawa’s indigenous performing arts and fables with inspiration from performing arts in mainland Japan and Chinese theater.
What is Kumiodori
What were the names given to the Ryukyu Islands after it was annexed by Japan? (Hint: prefectures)
What is Kagoshima and Okinawa Prefecture
In Ōshiro Tatsuhiro’s "Turtleback Tombs,"this internal conflict faced by the main character's highlights the tension between them that is exemplified by the tombs.
What is the struggle between personal freedom and traditional family duty
The name of the deity or deities said to have created the Ryukyuan islands.
What is Amamikyu or Izanagi and Izanami
Which war was fought (and won by Japan in 1895) that some scholars say was the turning point in the ongoing diplomatic battle for control over the Ryukyu Islands?
What is the First Sino-Japanese War
In Eiki Matayoshi’s "Fortunes by the Sea," the sea is not merely a setting but symbolizes this dual force.
What are opportunities and alienation / survival and marginalization
Food ingredients introduced to Okinawa through years of trade. (Name 1)
Goya (bitter melon), nabera (luffa or towel gourd), Thai Indica rice
Which diplomatic relationship was more integral towards forming the distinct Ryukyuan identity?
Dependent upon which era you look at to be the exemplary representation of the "Ryukyuan Identity." It could be argued that Japan had the larger role, ultimately in forming the identity due to its annexation, proximity, and increased interactions after the invasion of the Satsuma in 1609