Bluestocking
青鞜 Bluestocking Seito was the first literary magazine run by only women and it discussed women's issues in society and had great influence on the later Japanese feminist movements and the 'awakening' of the woman. Unfortunately, the magazine was met with a lot of criticism and hurdles throughout their rather short existence until 1916 when the Japanese government banned the publication for being 'disruptive to the society'. Why Bluestocking? The title was inspired by the 'Bluestockings Society' in England in the 18th century. Educated, intellectual women interested in literary discussions came together, which was quite extraordinary in that time. The meetings were hosted by Elizabeth Montagu (also called the 'Queen of the Blues'), who took over the property, after her husband died and was thus independent from any male guardians. This did not happen often in those times. The members wore blue stockings, an informal option to the formal bl
