1590 Jesuit Press in Nagasaki, Japan

Hi everyone! 

I’m Gema Sanchez Gamez and for my final project for English 12H, Literatures of the World, I researched the 1590 Jesuit printing press in Nagasaki, Japan. 

As you will learn, the 1590 Jesuit printing press has an extremely interesting history that shows the importance of religious education and the use of books as preachers in the midst of persecution. Due to the tense religious climate in 16th century Japan created by Emperor Hideyoshi and his 1587 Edicts against Christianity, the press had to be moved around constantly and most of the works were unfortunately burned. 

This press had a significant impact on the expansion of Christianity in Japan as well as European consciousness of Japan that I hope you will understand better as you navigate through this exhibit. I’d suggest clicking down in chronological order to better understand the full social, literary, cultural, and political effects of this press. 

Enjoy!