Japanese Courses

0085 Japanese Tales of the Supernatural

12730 Jordan

1In this course we will read a broad array of fictional works that deal with the supernatural in Japan. The material is arranged historically, ranging from the seventh century to contemporary times, covering a variety of genres, from ancient myths, to various forms of theater and narrative fiction, poetry, picture-books, film and anime, as well as paintings, prints and other arts that relate to these tales. We will encounter Shinto gods, Buddhas, boddhisatvas, ghosts, various types of demons, water-spirits, shape-shifting foxes and raccoon dogs, snakes and dragons. The ostensible purpose of this course is to provide students with a brief view of Japanese literature, visual arts and culture from a particular angle--in this case, the representation of supernatural beings and worlds. However, by looking at the non-human and the non-natural, students are inevitably encouraged to think about the nature of human society and individuality in different historical periods in Japan. In other words, it quickly becomes clear that the representation of supernatural beings and worlds is closely related to the definition of social and individual identity.

2. No prerequisite.

3. No recitation.

4. Expected class size is 50 students.

5. This course is expected to be offered regularly.