KANSAI GAIDAI UNIVERSITY

31/60

Japanese Cultural History: Ancient and Medieval This survey course offers a look at Japanese cultural history from the earliest Paleolithic Era human settlements on the archipelago up until the end of the so-called “Age of the Country at War” circa 1600. We will focus on a number of major developments that took place during this extended period, with a particular emphasis on the creation of a centralized govern-ment and the gradual, uneven transition from courtier to warrior rule that accompanied and further complicated this shift. In addition, students will also analyze how these larger trends influenced some of the specific cultural practices developed and maintained by people who lived during these tumultuous times.History of Modern JapanIn a survey of modern Japan, from the time of the Tokugawa Shogunate up to the recent past, this course provides students with a broad survey of the political, economic, social and cultural developments in Japan. Major themes include the rise and fall of the Shogunate; the "opening" of the nation; economic and techno-logical development under the Meiji government; the crises of the Taisho and Showa eras; Japan at war; and the postwar economic "miracle." By the end of the course, students will have acquired a broad general knowledge of the history of modern Japan; be able to communicate effectively and analyze complex questions about the history of modern Japan; and be able to understand the history of modern Japan within world history. Japanese Cultural History: Early Modern and ModernThe most basic aim of this course is to provide an approachable and wide-ranging survey of early modern and modern Japanese history, a period spanning from the late sixteenth century to the present. In addition, this class is also designed to foster curiosity and compel deeper historical inquiry into the thorny question of how individuals relate to society. Students will examine not only many of the major political, social, economic, and intellectual developments that have accompanied Japan’s emergence as a world power, but also employ methods of cultural history in order to investigate how people ranging from government leaders to average citizens have attempted to define and explain their various roles and responsibilities in early modern and modern Japan. 20th Century Asian History through FilmFilm is an exciting medium to approach the study of history. In the course, students will engage in debate on how historical films portray the past, whether they can or should strive for historical accuracy, and to what degree they present opinions or interpreta-tions of the past. Students will explore twentieth century Asian history through the analysis of a wide variety of films which portray the history of the time period and place. By the end of the course, students will be able to reference a wide range of historical films and produce an analytical film review essay which places a film in histor-ical context and engage in debate on film representation. International Business LawThis course will provide students with a basic and broad understanding of the international legal frameworks regulat-ASIA/JAPAN STUDIES COURSESTopics in HistoryInternational Law29