SEM:TOPICS E ASIAN LANG & LIT

Topics course. Often assumed to be ethnically and culturally homogeneous, Japan is in fact home to several minority groups, including Ainu, burakumin, Korean Japanese, and Okinawans. This seminar will examine the works of different minority writers, and consider the cultural and political ramifications of their writing. We will discuss the portrayal of the "minority experience" in Japan as well as address the texts' impact on Japanese literature.

TALE OF GENJI & PILLOW BOOK

A study of the two most famous literary works of Heian (784-1185) Japan, both written by Ladies-in-Waiting to rival consorts of the Emperor. Although radically different in form and content, The Tale of Genji by Murasaki Shikibu and The Pillow Book of Sh?nagon are considered to be two of the greatest pieces of Japanese literature, and they provide insight into the court at a time when women played a major role in society and the arts. Open to all sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Readings in English translation.

MODERN JAPANESE LITERATURE

A survey of Japanese literature from the late 19th century to the present. Over the last century and a half, Japan has undergone tremendous change: rapid industrialization, imperial and colonial expansion, occupation following its defeat in the Pacific War, and emergence as a global economic power. The literature of modern Japan reflects the complex aesthetic, cultural and political effects of such changes.

CONTEMP CHI WOMEN'S FICTION

An exploration of major themes through close readings of contemporary fiction by women from China, Taiwan, Tibet, and Chinese diasporas. Theme for 2013: Intimacy. How do stories about love, romance, and desire (including extramarital affairs, serial relationships and love between women) reinforce or contest norms of economic, cultural, and sexual citizenship? What do narratives of intimacy reveal about the social consequences of economic restructuring? How do pursuits, realizations, and failures of intimacy lead to personal and social change?

CHINESE TRAVEL WRITING

Who travels in China and for what reasons? What does a traveler write about -- the scenery of a particular location or the experience of a journey itself; the homesickness or the joy of traveling; the philosophical and spiritual insights or the political implications? Much of Chinese literature is composed from the perspective of one who is, or has been, on the road: whether as exile, pilgrim, soldier, pleasure traveler, or even shaman.

CHOREOGRAPHY BY DESIGN

This class will examine and engage the choreographic process through a study of the interaction of expressive movement with concrete and abstract design ideas. Choreographic ideas developed in this class will be based on the premise that design elements can be used as source material for choreographic intent. In addition to studies and projects, weekly writings will be assigned. Prerequisites: two semesters of choreography (or equivalent), familiarity with basic music theory, coursework in theatrical production (or equivalent).
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