HIS
372 / 572,
THE HISTORY OF EARLY MODERN JAPAN
SYLLABUS
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
The following is a list of major course objectives for HIS 372 / 572, THE HISTORY OF EARLY MODERN JAPAN: at the end of fifteen weeks of instruction and study, students enrolled in this course should be able to-
The major content in HIS 372 / 572 will be delivered by means of lecture and in-class discussion following the appended list of topics. Class discussion on any topic under consideration is both welcomed and encouraged. REGULAR ATTENDANCE AT LECTURE AND DISCUSSION MEETINGS IS A BASIC COURSE REQUIREMENT.1. Ident fy and explain the historical significance of basic terms, personalities, events and concepts associated with the study of the Tokugawa Period in Japanese history;
2. Discuss with insight and illustrative detail selected patterns of economic, political, social and cultural modernization occurring in Japan between 1600 and 1868, accounting in the process particularly for the impact on those patterns of past Japanese tradition, the policies and practices of the Tokugawa and the role of internally-generated innovation;
3. Assess insights into early modern Japanese culture gained from an independent exploration of the role of a single individual against the backdrop of urban cultural change and development between 1600 and 1868;
4. Research, analyze and evaluate the impact of the modernization process in early modern Japan within a specific and focused area of personal interest, assessing the interaction between such influencing factors as maintained tradition and purposeful innovation;
5. Describe the lingering effects of Tokugawa era policies, formulas and institutions on both modern and contemporary Japanese life and institutions.
No examinations will be given in the course. Students will be asked to complete a series of Journal Assignments scheduled for submission at regular intervals throughout the semester. A close examination of selected readings as assigned in the class schedule will be the basis for some of the journal assignments (and for associated in-class discussions). Both a short research essay (3 - 5 pages) on an assigned topic and a longer research essay (9 - 12 pages) on a subject of the student's choice will be developed over the semester. Reading, journal and research essay due dates (together with other preparatory assignments) are noted in the class schedule on the date each is due. LATE ASSIGNMENTS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED WITHOUT PRIOR AUTHORIZATION BY THE INSTRUCTOR.
SYLLABUS: INTRODUCTION | COURSE OBJECTIVES | SYNOPSIS OF COURSE REQUIREMENTS | ASSUMPTIONS AND EXPECTATIONS