The Order of Arts and Letters honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the arts and literature or who have significantly advanced the international influence of French culture. In Japan, the distinction has been conferred upon prominent figures from a wide range of creative fields, including film, architecture, music, theater, and the visual arts.　

Professor Nagai received the honor in recognition of her long-standing research on twentieth-century French literature, with particular focus on authors such as Julien Gracq and André Malraux. Her scholarly achievements include numerous publications and translations, as well as the organization of joint academic symposia that have fostered sustained intellectual exchange between Japan and France.

She was also commended for her efforts to introduce Japanese literature and culture to French audiences, notably through the publication of a French-language anthology of Japanese Surrealist poetry. In addition, her leadership in promoting cultural initiatives jointly organized by Sophia University and the Embassy of France in Japan during her tenure as Vice President for Student Affairs from AY2021 to AY2024 was cited as a significant contribution in the awarding of the distinction.

Comment from Professor Atsuko Nagai

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the many scholars in Japan and France whom I have encountered through French literature, including my mentors, senior colleagues, and fellow researchers. Over the years, I have come to value the French emphasis on maintaining a balance between individual independence and living together with others, as well as ways of life that are simple yet deeply fulfilling. Through my continued research and teaching, I hope to further share the richness of the cultures and societies of both countries.

Professor Atsuko Nagai is a Professor in the Department of French Literature at Sophia University. She holds a doctorate in modern literature from the University of Angers in France and specializes in twentieth-century French literature.

After graduating from Sophia University in 1984, she pursued advanced literary studies at the University of Angers. She earned her doctoral degree from the University of Angers in 1995 as a recipient of a French Government Scholarship. After serving at Gifu University, she joined Sophia University in 1997 and became a full professor in 2005. She served as Dean of the Graduate School of Humanities from AY2017 to AY2021 and later as Vice President for Student Affairs from AY2021 to AY2024, contributing to academic leadership and international cultural exchange initiatives.

Related links

• About Professor Nagai’s research
• Interview: The impact of Surrealist artists breaking the mold to gain new perspectives

Press contact

Office of Public Relations （sophiapr-co@sophia.ac.jp)