Asian Studies (ASNT)

This course surveys aspects of Chinese culture in their historical and social contexts. Topics will be selected by the instructor and may include folklore, literature, language and material culture. No previous study of China or the Chinese language is required.

Students survey aspects of Japanese culture in their historical and social contexts. Topics will be selected by the instructor and may include folklore, literature, language, and material culture. No previous study of Japan or the Japanese language is required.

Students survey aspects of Korean culture in their historical and social contexts. Topics will be selected by the instructor and may include folklore, literature, language, religion, philosophy, and material culture. No previous study of Korea or the Korean language is required.

Students explore contemporary political, social, economic, and cultural issues apparent among the indigenous minority communities in China and Southeast Asia, through an examination of literary, cinematic, theatrical, artistic, and musical forms of expression.

Students study films in chronological order to map a history of Asian cinema, covering a section of films dating from the 1950s to the present. Students access related websites, watch selected films weekly, and read assigned texts that analyze topics including history, religion, gender, narrative, visual content, and music as they relate to the various Asian cinemas.

This course will introduce modern Japan, accentuating the institutions of family, school, and workplace. Emphasis will be placed on values, social participation, and the individual’s position within the context of contemporary Japanese society. No knowledge of the Japanese language is required.

This course will introduce modern China, accentuating the institutions of family, school, and workplace. Emphasis will be placed on values, socio-cultural practices, and the individual’s position within contemporary Chinese society. No knowledge of the Chinese language is required.

This course will introduce students to the study of Asia from a multidisciplinary perspective. Using various disciplines in the humanities, social science and commerce fields, students will review how various disciplines intersect to create a fuller understanding of Asia.

This course will explore the cultural representation of traditional and modern Japanese culture through film and literature. Focus will be on major works of Japanese literature, ranging from pre-modern poetry to modern fiction, as well as their cinematic adaptations. All selected works of literature are in English translation. No knowledge of the Japanese language is required.

This course will explore the rich Chinese culture through representative major works of modern literature, as well as new film and contemporary art in China and Taiwan. Major themes to be considered include the family, the changing role of women, Western influences, modernization, and national identity. All selected works of literature are in English translation. No knowledge of the Chinese language is required.

This half course will provide an opportunity for Asian Studies students to integrate their knowledge of Asia in a multidisciplinary fashion. This course may include case studies, specific area studies and comparative approaches to regions in Asia. Both students and faculty involved in the Asian Studies program will participate in this course.

Asian Studies students are required to submit and defend a thesis to be selected and prepared in conjunction with a faculty advisor.