31107 - Japanese Literature 1

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course students knows the general outlines of the history of Japanese literature from the origins to the beginning of modernity. They will be provided the basic analytical tools to understand the works of the main authors, and they are able to contextualize them within their cultural, linguistic, artistic and historical background.

Course contents

1) Course Introduction

2) From the Origins to the 9th Century – The Nara Period: Kojiki, Rikkokushi, Fudoki, Kanshi

3) From the Origins to the 9th Century – The Nara Period: Man’yōshū. From Chinese Poetry to the Kokinwakashū

4) Heian Narrative Forms (I): Uta monogatari and Tsukuri monogatari

5) Heian Narrative Forms (II): Monogatari (pre-Genji and post-Genji)

6) Genji monogatari: General Features and Analysis of Selected Chapters

7) Heian Narrative Forms (III): Nikki

8) Heian Narrative Forms (IV): Nikki – Zuihitsu

9) Medieval Literature: Hōjōki and Tsurezuregusa

10) Medieval Narrative Genres: Setsuwa, Gunki monogatari, Otogizōshi

11) Kanazōshi and Ukiyozōshi

12) Introduction to Edo Literature: Material Culture, Schools of Thought, Intellectuals and Audience, Poetry

13) Edo Literature (I): Gesaku

14) Edo Literature (II): Gesaku

 

Readings/Bibliography

See italian bibliography

Teaching methods

The course includes in-person lectures on the history of literature, online learning modules designed to introduce specific critical theories, and in-class screenings and discussions of audiovisual materials related to Japanese culture and literature.

 

Students with SLD or temporary or permanent disabilities. It is suggested that they get in touch as soon as possible with the relevant University office (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en ) and with the lecturer in order to seek together the most effective strategies for following the lessons and/or preparing for the examination.Any requests for adjustments must be made within 15 days of the exam date by sending an email to the lecturer and entering the email address disabilita@unibo.it (in case of a disabling condition) or dsa@unibo.it (for students with DSA) in Cc.

Assessment methods

1) Completion of the individual project accounts for 15% of the exam grade (Midterm 1).

2) Contribution to the collaborative wiki accounts for 25% of the exam grade (Midterm 2).

3) The oral examination accounts for the remaining 60% of the exam grade (Final Exam).

Teaching tools

Shared materials will be made available through the dedicated online platform.

Office hours

See the website of Samantha Audoly