In this course we’ll explore the rich cultures and histories of what we now call China, Korea, and Japan. As we work, we will linger on three ideas or images that have particularly influenced North American views of the region, as seen in recent popular books. We will also take advantage of local resources, and your talents, to consider Asia more broadly—and to consider how these cultures see “us”.
Head’s up: since my home discipline favors active reading and analytical writing, we will write often in this course and spend considerable time discussing how words convey thought. Rest assured that most assignments are short, that I give regular feedback, and that I will happily clarify my comments in person as needed. You do not need to be a “good writer,” or a native English-‐speaker, to do well in this class.