Which summary best captures the excerpt’s main idea about Hokusai’s …

English Questions
Short Answer
Step by Step Solution
English Questions

Which summary best captures the excerpt’s main idea about Hokusai’s “The Great Wave”? 1. The author suggests that “The Great Wave” symbolized Japan’s entry into international trade. 2. The author describes the fishing boats and fishermen depicted in the woodblock print. 3. Japan was an isolated nation until “The Great Wave” gained popularity. 4. Japanese art is considered the most expensive and beautiful in the world.

Short Answer

The author interprets *The Great Wave* as a symbol of Japan’s transition into international trade, showcasing the challenges posed by modernity. Key elements, like the fishing boat and the massive wave, highlight the tension between Japan’s traditional economy and the forces of change, emphasizing the vulnerability of traditional livelihoods in the face of overwhelming modern influences.

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Understanding the Symbolism

The author interprets *The Great Wave* as a powerful symbol representing Japan during its transition into *international trade*. This painting reflects the challenges and opportunities that Japan faced as it navigated the waters of modernity.

Step 2: Analyzing the Elements

Each component of the artwork carries significant *symbolic value*. The fishing boat represents the traditional *fishing industry*, a vital part of Japan’s economy, while the massive wave signifies the overwhelming force of *modernity*. Observing these elements highlights the contrast between Japan’s past and its future.

Step 3: Recognizing the Scale

The depiction of the fishermen and the mountain reveals the stark difference in scale, where both appear tiny against the vastness of the sea. This illustrates the struggle of Japan’s traditional livelihoods against the immense forces of change. The *minuscule* size of the fishermen underscores their vulnerability amid such powerful changes in society.

Related Concepts

Symbolism

The use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities, conveying deeper meanings through visual elements in art

Modernity

The quality or condition of being modern, particularly in relation to societal changes and advancements that impact culture and economy

Contrast

The state of being strikingly different from something else in juxtaposition or close association, often used to highlight differences in perspectives or values.

Table Of Contents
  1. Which summary best captures the excerpt's main idea about Hokusai's "The Great Wave"? 1. The author suggests that "The Great Wave" symbolized Japan's entry into international trade. 2. The author describes the fishing boats and fishermen depicted in the woodblock print. 3. Japan was an isolated nation until "The Great Wave" gained popularity. 4. Japanese art is considered the most expensive and beautiful in the world.

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