Women in Japanese Literature and Film

Course Description

The course focuses on various aspects of women's lives in modern Japanese society, providing an overview of modern Japanese society through representation of women's culture in literature and film. Notes: Taught in English.

Syllabus

Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:

Students successfully completing this course will be able to:

  • Demonstrate the reading skills required to read texts analytically and critically
  • Describe orally and in writing some of the important characteristics of Japanese culture from different time periods
  • Describe orally and in writing Japanese society in relation to women’s lives and gender related issues by using various examples drawn from the writings and films
  • Demonstrate effective oral communication skills through class discussions and formal and informal speech
  • Demonstrate an understanding and sensitivity to cultural differences

Course Grading Information:

Activity/Performance Measure Percentage/Points
Participation and Preparation 10%
Homework discussion posts 15%
Book Reaction Papers 25%
Group project 25%
Final Paper/Speech 25%

Grading Scale

Percentage Letter Grade
93–100A
90–92A-
88–89B+
83–87B
80–82B-
78–79C+
73–77C
70–72C-
68–69D+
63–67D
60–62D-
0-59F

Attendance/Participation:

Students may have up to 2 unexcused absences; additional absences reduce the final grade.

Course Materials Purchased by the Students:

  • Tanizaki, Junichiro. Naomi. Translated by Anthony H. Chambers, Vintage International, 2001. ISBN: 9780375724749
  • Murakami, Haruki. Sputnik Sweetheart. Translated by Philip Gabriel, Vintage International, 2002. ISBN: 9780375726057

Scholarly Perspectives

This course engages diverse scholarly perspectives to develop critical thinking, analysis, and debate and inclusion of a reading does not imply endorsement.