Readings in Korean History

Catalog description

This course introduces students to English-language scholarship on social history of Korea from the founding of the Chosŏn dynasty (1392–1910) to the mid-nineteenth century. Conducted as a reading seminar, the course will examine status and gender in early modern Korean society by considering, among others, descent, kinship, marriage, education, and economy. A reading list of noteworthy studies is intended to help the students map some critical questions and debates that have shaped the historiography. Everyone must participate actively in discussions, provide oral presentations as a discussion leader, and submit two review essays. No knowledge of Korean language or culture is presumed. This course satisfies Cross Cultural Analysis requirement.