Harumi Befu Collection

Professor Befu (1930-2022) served as Dean of Japanese Anthropology at Stanford University and was a pioneer in Japanese studies. He researched significant events in contemporary Japanese history, from wartime experiences to the rise of multicultural society in the 21st century, including economic expansion and the late 20th-century crisis.

His works offer groundbreaking insights into the critical study of Japanese society and culture, playing a crucial role in challenging myths and essentialist interpretations. The collection traces the development of Professor Befu's ideas, showcasing the sources he consulted and the materials he analysed, resulting in a unique legacy of 400 monographs in the academic field.

The collection is coordinated by Dr. Blai Guarné from the Department of Translation, Interpreting, and East Asian Studies at the Faculty of Translation and Interpreting.

Collection date range: 1919-2012

Collection incorporation date: 2012

Depositary library: Humanities Library