Japanese Literature

Catalog description

Selected works from important Japanese texts representing genres such as autobiography, poetry, fiction, and drama; topics may vary each semester. JAPNS 454 Japanese Literature (3 per semester/maximum of 6) (IL) (BA) This course meets the Bachelor of Arts degree requirements.This class will be a seminar-style study of contemporary Japanese literature. The goal of the course is to help students move from grammar-assisted reading assignments (which may provide vocabulary lists, grammar notes, and cultural notes) to reading 'raw' materials in Japanese, where students are responsible for knowing how to use the appropriate reference materials so that they can compile vocabulary lists, grammar notes, and cultural notes on their own. Students will be reading selected works from an array of genres such as autobiography, poetry, fiction, drama and essays, with topics and thematic focuses varying from semester to semester. Typical class sessions may involve reading aloud from a literary work; engaging with student presentations (in Japanese) on authors, genres, thematic elements, and relevant historical or cultural events; discussing Japanese literary history; analyzing short passages for their aesthetic qualities; and working with specific items of grammar or vocabulary. Participants will be required to read and discuss Japanese literature in Japanese. Exercises will range from group discussion, web-based research in Japanese and English, presentations, essays, quizzes and tests. Students must prepare for class by reading the material carefully, taking notes, writing down questions, and being ready to take part in lively conversations. Course discussion will take place primarily or exclusively in Japanese. This course satisfies the International Cultures requirement.