Japanese Religion and Culture

Catalog description

A historical survey of religious beliefs, practices, and institutions in Japan, from ancient times to the present, this course will cover all major Japanese religious traditions and movements—Shintō, Buddhism, Shūgendō, Confucianism, and the so-called “new religions”—as well as various elements of religion and culture, such as Noh theatre and Bushidō, that are not readily subsumed under any of the preceding labels. Readings will include many primary sources (Japanese texts in English translation), and audio-visual materials will be used whenever possible to give a fuller picture of traditional religious art, architecture, and ritual performance in Japan. Prior study or experience with Japanese culture (language, literature, history, etc.) is desirable but not required. Perspectives on 9/11: Religion, Politics, and Culture