| Course | Title | Instructor | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EAS 40 | JPN CLIMATE FICTION | PITT, J. | In this course, we will focus on Japanese Cli-Fi--a form of speculative writing that imagines what might happen to our planet in the wake of climate change--in a variety of different mediums, including novels, short stories, films, and anime. We will discuss the basic science of climate change and learn to think critically about Japanese artistic responses to current and anticipated environmental disturbance and transformation. All readings and screenings will be in English and no prior knowledge of Japanese is required. |
| EAS 55 | STORIES FROM KOREA | SUH, S. | “The course surveys modern Korean literature by focusing on short stories. All required readings are in English. Course requirements include three quizzes and a final examination.” |
| EAS 126 | ANIME SPEECH | SILVA FONSECA, M. | This course is an introduction to phonetics through the lens of anime and manga. Phonetic concepts that the course will cover include the vocal tract, vowels, consonants, coarticulation, spectrograms, and speech perception. These concepts will be exemplified with examples from anime such as Jujutsu Kaisen, Frieren: Beyond Journey's End, and Puella Magi Madoka Magica. We will alternate between readings on phonetics and on anime/manga. This course does not require prior knowledge of the Japanese language. |
| EAS 126 | JAPANESE SOCIOLING | RIGGS, H. | This course is an introduction to Japanese sociolinguistics, which is the study of the relationship between a language and society. We will explore variety of language uses in modern Japanese and how such variation is constructed by identity and culture. An exploration of attitudes and ideologies about these varieties will be of importance to understanding this relationship. Its main goal is to provide students a systematic introduction to the nature and characteristics of the language use. The course covers: • Language assimilation and unification of a nation • Speaking a dialect as manifestation of identity • Inside and outside of a social group • Honorific system as the art of socializing in the society • Use of male/female language based on social norms |
| EAS 150 | PREMODERN CHN LAUGH | RAO, X. | From witty wordplay and mischievous jesters to political satire and slapstick comedy, this course dives into the many faces of humor in premodern Chinese literature. We'll explore how laughter shaped identities of self and others through a wide range of sources, including textbooks, philosophical writings, poems, religious tales, and plays. Along the way, we'll rethink what it means to laugh: how humor can entertain, critique, enlighten, and challenge power. Open to all students: no prior background in Chinese required. Taught in English. |
| EAS 155 | GENDER & PREMOD JPN | GHANBARPOUR, C. | This course focuses on the experiences of women and men from roughly the end of the Heian period (794-1185) to the end of the 16th century. How did the roles and positions of women and men change in this time period, what were their problems, and how did they interact with each other and with the institutions and traditions that changed so markedly in the tradition from imperial to warrior rule? We will study women's and men's economic, social, political, and cultural roles, looking particularly at changes in women’s status, the spread of Buddhism, political movements and upheavals, warfare, entertainment, art, literature, and poetry. (same as 26885 History 172G, Lec B; and 31170 Rel Std 120, Lec A) |
| EAS 155 | CHAINS OF UTILITY | SUH, S. | This course examines 1970s and 80s South Korean literature and culture with a focus on the issue of utility. South Korean society underwent rapid industrialization and urbanization in the 1970s and 80s. During this period, many believed that if they worked hard and spent little, they would prosper. However, quite a few literary texts and movies from the period reveal how much oppressive and exploitative a society driven toward economic expansion can be. To understand the historical context and comprehend the complexity of the issue of utility, students will read excerpts from a Korean history textbook and works in critical theory as well as literary texts. All readings are in English. |
| EAS 190 | A.I. & JAPAN | PITT, J. | In this course, we will look at the long history of speculation about Artificial Intelligence in Japanese literature and visual media. We examine novels, short stories, anime, and live action film that present various philosophical perspectives on AI. In addition, we will look at academic articles and news reports on the reality (and unrealities and their related consequences) of AI in our contemporary moment. |