HIS 272H,
CULTURAL INTERACTIONS: JAPAN

Describe and discuss one example of the process by which an element (or set of related elements) of Western civilzation and culture (before and/or after 1868) was absorbed into Japanese life (completely, partially or in adapted form). How is your example reflective of adoption / adaptation, acquisition / imposition, purposeful / accidental cultural interaction?

Consider as well how this transplanted element of European or American culture contributred to the advance of Japan civilization. Did its amalgamation into Japanese culture have any unforeseen consequences? How did this example of cultural interaction benefit the Japanese? What, if anything, did the West gain from the encounter?

SUGGESTED TOPICS TO CONSIDER:

• Christianity
• Western military technology, strategies and institutional organization
• Western art forms and techniques
• Western economic systems and institutions
• Western systems of education
• Western political institutions and structures
• Western literary styles
• Western costume, customs and habits
• Western legal, ethical and philosophical norms and expectations