About HST 2448 A
Explores the history of the samurai class in Japan, as represented in primary historical sources, recent secondary scholarship, and contemporary popular culture. Prerequisite: HST 1440 or HST 2447.
Notes
Prereqs enforced by the system: HST 1440 or HST 2447; PACE students by permission and override; System waitlisting enabled for this section.
Section Description
This course explores the history of the samurai class in Japan as represented in primary sources, secondary scholarly works, and popular cinema culture, with emphasis on the Tokugawa period (1603-1868). Our primary aim is to develop a sophisticated understanding of how samurai life and identity evolved and transformed from its early origins during the 11th century until the abolition of the samurai class itself in the late 19th century. Students will read extensively, write several analytical essays, and critically explore a series of Japanese films that focus on samurai topics and themes by well-known directors Kinugasa Teinosuke, Kurosawa Akira, Kobayashi Masaki, Yamada Yōji, and Kore-eda Hirokazu. This is not a lecture-driven course; class meetings are fueled by the enthusiastic participation of well-prepared students.
Section Expectation
This course has enforced prerequisites: HST 1440 or HST 2447
Evaluation
three writing assignments, film journal, class participation
Important Dates
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Resources
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