#Japan #Tokyo #Culture Exchange #Atsuko Nagai #French Literature

Professor Atsuko Nagai Honored with French Arts and Culture Award

In a prestigious recognition of her contributions to French literature and the cultural exchange between Japan and France, Professor Atsuko Nagai of Sophia University has been awarded the Chevalier of the Order of Arts and Letters (L’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres) by the French Ministry of Culture. The award ceremony took place on April 10 at the French ambassador's residence, highlighting her impressive dedication to the field over many years.

The Order of Arts and Letters is divided into three ranks: Chevalier (Knight), Officier (Officer), and Commandeur (Commander). It is designed to honor individuals who have made significant achievements in the arts or literature, either through creative work or notable contributions to art and literature on a global scale. Many prominent Japanese figures, including filmmakers, architects, artists, musicians, kabuki actors, manga artists, and critics, have received this distinguished award over the years.

Professor Nagai’s achievement is particularly remarkable due to her extensive research on 20th-century French literature, focusing on notable authors such as Julien Gracq and André Malraux. Her long-term commitment to academic exchanges between Japan and France has included publishing original works and translations, as well as organizing joint symposiums that foster collaboration and understanding between the cultures. Notably, her efforts in publishing an anthology of Japanese surrealist poetry translated into French have played a critical role in promoting Japanese literature and culture in France, thus enhancing the cultural dialogue between the two nations.

In addition to her research and writing, Professor Nagai served as the Vice President for Student Affairs from 2021 to 2024, facilitating cultural projects co-hosted by the French Embassy in Japan and Sophia University. This active engagement in promoting cultural exchange was a significant factor leading to her recent honor.

In her acceptance speech, Professor Nagai expressed her profound gratitude to all the teachers, seniors, and colleagues she has met through her journey in French literature. She emphasized the invaluable lessons learned from the French way of valuing independence and coexistence, and praised the simplicity yet richness of their way of living. She expressed her commitment to continue sharing the charm of both Japanese and French cultures and societies through her research and education.

Background of Professor Atsuko Nagai

Professor Nagai is an esteemed faculty member at Sophia University’s Department of French Literature. She holds a Ph.D. in Modern Literature from Angers University in France. After completing her undergraduate studies at Sophia University in 1984, she furthered her academic career in contemporary literature at Angers University, where she obtained her doctoral degree in 1995 as a government-sponsored foreign student.

Following her tenure at Gifu University, Professor Nagai joined Sophia University’s French Literature Department in 1997 and has been a full professor since 2005. She served as the Chair of the Graduate School of Literature at Sophia University from 2017 to 2021 and has dedicated herself to enhancing education, student support, and international cultural exchanges during her vice-presidency.

With her recent recognition, Professor Nagai not only adds a prestigious award to her name but also solidifies her role as a vital cultural bridge between Japan and France, as she continues to inspire her students and peers in the realms of literature and cultural studies.