IN PERSON: What does it mean to observe a culture as an insider or an outsider? Is it possible to truly understand a worldview very different from your own? This course surveys Japanese literature to explore distinctive aspects of Japanese culture alongside Western attempts to interpret and understand it. Students will read and discuss selections from classical works such as "The Manyōshū," "The Pillow Book," and "The Tale of Genji," as well as writings by more modern authors including Junichiro Tanizaki, Yasunari Kawabata, Yukio Mishima, Kyoko Mori, and even lifestyle writer Marie Kondo. Together, these texts offer insight into how the Japanese have described themselves before and after experiencing significant Western influence. Alongside these works, we will read perspectives from writers such as Lafcadio Hearn, Ruth Benedict, and Donald Keene. Class discussions will consider each author’s viewpoint, authority, and potential biases, and will explore how and why they attempt to represent Japan. | Facilitated discussion.
Max enrollment: 18.
Location: Judea Reform Congregation, 1933 W. Cornwallis Rd, Durham NC 27705
