Through his books, translations and articles, Donald Keene has helped shape the English-speaking world's understanding of Japanese culture. Few Americans or Japanese have been as deeply and broadly engaged with Japanese culture as Dr. Keene, whose work ranges from translations of classic works of premodern and contemporary literature and drama to insightful books about modern Japan that have become standards in the field. This evening, Dr. Keene, Shincho Professor Emeritus of Japanese Literature at Columbia University and recipient of The Order of the Rising Sun, the second highest honor that can be bestowed on an individual by the Japanese government, reflects on his more than 60-year career as a leading scholar of both traditional and modern Japanese culture. Moderated by Thomas Hare, Professor of Comparative Literature, Princeton University.

Followed by a reception.