JPST-220 Japanese Masterpieces in Translation (4 Credits)
(PL,G) This course provides a broad overview of the representative literary works produced in Japan during the classical, medieval, early modern, and modern periods. While reading selected literature, we will discuss the historical and socio-cultural backgrounds in which the works were created. Our readings will cover various genres such as tales, diaries, poetry, drama, autobiographical writing, and fiction. The goal of this class is to cultivate familiarity and appreciation of the cultures, aesthetics, and social values of Japan that spawned the variety of literary works we will read in class. No prerequisite.
JPST-230 Japanese Traditional Theatre (4 Credits)
(PA, G) The primary goal of this course is to invite students into an intellectual and physical investigation of Japanese performing arts. It introduces the classical performance genres of No, Kyogen, Kabuki, and Bunraku (puppet theatre) in their historical, cultural and performative context, and considers their aesthetic formation. Students shall be able to analyze and appreciate different kinds of performance through lectures, readings, videos, and possibly some hands-on workshops. As such, a selection of plays will be examined in English alongside the work of theatre directors and performance makers including artists working to develop interdisciplinary and intercultural forms of expression.
JPST-250 Japanese Culture & Society (4 Credits)
(PH,G) This course will introduce students to Japanese culture and society while traveling in Japan on J-term. The topics and reading materials closely relate to each destination and include literature, history, religion, social systems, and current issues. Students will deepen their understanding of Japanese culture and society by having classroom study combined with firsthand experience, observation, and interaction with people living in Japan. Taught in English.
JPST-393 International Study Colloquium (3-4 Credits)