A Stylistic Typology of Heian–Kamakura-Period Literature from the Point of View of Sentence Connection

Abstract

This paper aims to establish a stylistic typology of Heian–Kamakura-period literature through a cluster analysis of stylistic indicators of sentence connection (conjunctive adverbs, demonstratives, conjunctive particles, unmarked). Through this analysis, it was revealed that Heian–Kamakura-period literature can be divided into the following three stylistic categories: [1] conjunctive particle-heavy, in which a high ratio of conjunctive particles are used (e.g., Genji monogatari, Taketori monogatari); [2] conjunction-/demonstrative-heavy, in which a high ratio of conjunctions and demonstratives are used (e.g, Ōkagami, Ujishūi monogatari); and [3] unmarked, in which relatively few conjunctive expressions are used (e.g., Kagerō nikki, Tsurezuregusa). In addition, it was demonstrated that sentence connection plays an important role in creating the stylistic contrast found between native literature (wabun) and classical Chineseinfluenced literature (wakankonkōbun), and that wabun has a strong tendency towards the use of conjunctive particles. In this sense, the current study has shed light on the archetypical style of wabun.