Japanology A: Exploring Worldviews
Josetu's "Catching a Catfish with a Gourd" (15th Century)
Taizo-in Temple, Kyoto (source and image explanation)
Taizo-in Temple, Kyoto (source and image explanation)
Lecture Slides (Second half of course)
Course Description:
What is most important to the people of Japan? In this course, we will explore this very question. We will examine the worldviews of Japan, both past and present, especially with regard to the interplay of religion, ethos, and culture. In addition to considering established belief systems, such as the worship of kami and the ideals of Bushidō, we will also look at how individuals search for genuine meaning through activities such as sacred travel. Whenever possible, we will compare and contrast these fundamental Japanese points of view with Western perspectives.
Course Objectives:
By the end of this course, the student should be able to clearly explain the most important beliefs and viewpoints for Japanese.
Course Description:
What is most important to the people of Japan? In this course, we will explore this very question. We will examine the worldviews of Japan, both past and present, especially with regard to the interplay of religion, ethos, and culture. In addition to considering established belief systems, such as the worship of kami and the ideals of Bushidō, we will also look at how individuals search for genuine meaning through activities such as sacred travel. Whenever possible, we will compare and contrast these fundamental Japanese points of view with Western perspectives.
Course Objectives:
By the end of this course, the student should be able to clearly explain the most important beliefs and viewpoints for Japanese.
Online Reading Assignments:
Inari Kami
Mountains and Power: “Shugendō: the Path to Mystic Power Via Ascetic Practices” by Schumacher
Pilgrimage in Japan I: “Resource Guide to Japanese Pilgrims and Pilgrimages (Part I
Pilgrimage in Japan II “Resource Guide to Japanese Pilgrims and Pilgrimages (Part II)” by Schumacher
Inari Kami
Mountains and Power: “Shugendō: the Path to Mystic Power Via Ascetic Practices” by Schumacher
Pilgrimage in Japan I: “Resource Guide to Japanese Pilgrims and Pilgrimages (Part I
Pilgrimage in Japan II “Resource Guide to Japanese Pilgrims and Pilgrimages (Part II)” by Schumacher
