Open to nonmajors. An intercultural examination of the images of women presented in Japanese and Chinese narrative, drama, and poetry from their early emergence to the modern period. While giving critical attention to aesthetic issues and the gendered voices in representative works, the course also provides a comparative view of the dynamic changes in women's roles in Japan and China. All selections in English translation. An examination of selected topics relevant to the study of Asia in an interdisciplinary framework.
Topics vary from year to year.
May be repeated for credit when a new topic is offered. Open to nonmajors. The Goddess Traditions of India, China, and Tibet. Beginning with a study of the Great Mother Goddess tradition of India and its branching out into China and Tibet, this course considers the history, myths, and practices associated with the various goddess traditions in Hinduism and Buddhism. The relationship of the goddess and her worship to issues of gender, caste, and ethics, and spiritual practice are also considered.