Section Description

This course explores the history of Japan from the fourth century until the present day. By viewing the trajectory of Japanese history largely through the art, literature and social customs produced during each major era, students will come to appreciate the long term transformation of Japanese society from a cultural perspective. Moreover, students will think critically about the processes by which cultural products and ideals are shaped by socioeconomic and political forces in all human societies, not merely on the islands we now call Japan.