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William Elliot Griffis is an American author and an expert on Korea. He lived during a time when Korea remained isolated, especially after a Japanese invasion. Despite this seclusion, Griffis had an interest in the nation. Moreover, he even published a book titled “Corea: The Hermit Nation,” where he mentioned that Korea is an unpolished diamond. This article will cover everything about William Elliot Griffis.
Table of Contents
William Elliot Griffis Biography
His book “Corea: The Hermit Nation” clearly hints at his belief in Korea’s hidden potential for future greatness. Here is an overview of his life.
| Field | Detail |
| Birth | September 17, 1843 |
| Death | February 5, 1928 (aged 84) |
| Place of Birth | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Place of Death | Winter Park, Florida, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupations | Educator, Missionary, Author |
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William Elliot Griffis – Education
William Elliot Griffis primarily pursued his education in the United States.
- He completed his undergraduate from Rutgers College (now Rutgers University) in New Brunswick, New Jersey in 1869.
- He then pursued theology at Union Theological Seminary in New York City.
His education background majorly covered practical education during the American Civil War and tutoring Japanese students.
William Elliot Griffis – Life and Works
We can easily say that William Elliot Griffis was the bridge between the East and the West with all the contributions of his work.
Early Life and Japan Connection:
It is mentioned above that he was born in 1843, but did you know that Griffis served in the Civil War before attending Rutgers? There, he tutored the first Japanese graduate, Taro Kusakabe. This gave rise to his interest in Japan, leading him to teach English and science there in 1870.
Shifting Focus:
After theological studies and ministry, Griffis turned to becoming a writer and lecturer. He wrote a book in 1876, “The Mikado’s Empire,” which became a major resource on Japanese history and culture.
Outstanding Author and Collaborator:
William Elliot Griffis wrote extensively on Japan, Asia, and America’s role in the region. Furthermore, he co-authored the influential book “Bushido: The Soul of Japan” in 1900.
Recognition and Legacy:
The Japanese government awarded Griffis the “Order of the Rising Sun” for his work promoting understanding. Griffis Collection at Rutgers University preserves his journals, photographs, and correspondence, offering a window into his life and contributions.
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Major Fairy Tale Collection
While serving as a minister in the 1800s, William Elliot Griffis emerged as a prolific writer and lecturer. His works span a wide range, including in-depth explorations of Japanese culture and heritage and delightful fairy tales published in the early 1900s.
Here is a list of his major fairy tale collections.
- Belgian Fairy Tales
- Swiss Fairy Tales
- Thirty-five Stories from the Wonderlore of Japan
- Korean Fairy Tales
- The Firefly’s Lovers and Other Fairy Tales of Old Japan
- Welsh Fairy Tales
- Japanese Fairy Tales
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FAQs
Some of his fairy tale collections include “The Firefly’s Lovers” and many other fairy tales of old Japan, Belgian, Welsh, and Korean fairy tales.
Japanese Government has given him the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette, and the Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon.
William Elliot Griffis was an American educator, minister, and author who became a leading expert on Japan and Asia.
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