History of Japanology

Catalog description

Provides students at the MA level with a deep understanding of the history of Japanese studies in the United States, Japan and Europe; the key issues and debates that have characterized the study of Japan from the eighteenth century to the present; and the methodological approaches employed in the professional study of Japanese literature and culture. Centers on the close reading and discussion of a range of primary and secondary sources (in English and Japanese) dealing with central issues in the development of Japan studies. In addition to pursuing independent research, students are expected to make regular presentations summarizing the main points in each week's readings. The course presumes that participants have the equivalent of 3+ years of college-level Japanese language study and a B.A. (or equivalent) in Japanese literature, language and/or culture.