JAPN 218 - Modernity, Politics, and the West in Modern Japanese Literature

3 HU, CD, WR
First Semester. Japan’s 19th-century modernization included radically new literary genres derived from Western literary traditions but developed in uniquely Japanese ways. Readings will include social fiction, naturalism, proletarian fiction, political autobiography, and modernist/ “decadent” literature, as well as selections from influential Western works. We will explore various issues: “adapting” from a foreign literary source; what makes modern literature “modern”; and how political, social, and technological developments affect literary form. No knowledge of Japanese required. Note: Previous coursework in modern literature is highly recommended.

Prerequisites & Notes
Mr. Filler

Credits: 3 hours