Literary works with a historical perspective by Ryotaro Shiba. This is a grand collection of essays that contemplates universal civilization on a global scale, viewing China, Korea, and Japan in relation to each other. It includes "Ili Jikki," which describes the history, appearance, and lifestyles of the people and places on the periphery of China, including the vast grasslands at the foot of the Tian Shan Mountains in the Western Regions, a place of longing for the author. It also includes essays such as "The Formation of Ancient Korea" and "Impressions of Wa (Japan)," which explore the nomadic and agricultural ways of life. ★ There are a few scratches on the front cover. Also, there is some aging and yellowing due to the passage of time.