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This course covers outstanding examples of modern (post 1867) and contemporary literature and film, including animated movies. Works covered have been selected both for their artistic merit and for their culturally interesting subject matter. Themes include the conflict between traditional and western values, colonialism and ethnic minorities such as Okinawa, the effects of the Second World War and the atomic bombings, post-war economic growth and its effect on people’s lives, the 1960s-70s student movement, and contemporary postmodern consumer society. The aims of the course are twofold: (a) to provide some basic skills in ‘reading’ modern Japanese literature and film and (b) to promote an understanding of Japanese society and its people. No knowledge of Japanese language is required.
JAPA212 is a requirement for those intending to major in Japanese and particularly pertinent forthose intending to have contact with Japan.By the end of the course students should have:- a familiarity with, and basic skills in ‘reading’ and analyzing, a range of modernJapanese films and literature;- an understanding of the relationships between the selected films and literature and theirsocial, cultural and historical contexts;- an awareness of a range of analytical tools and approaches to film and literature;- a deeper understanding of Japan, its culture and society within a global context;- a familiarity with issues faced by indigenous cultures in Japan, and their cultural expressionsof those issues, which will in turn heighten awareness and understanding of the culturallandscape and biculturalism in Aotearoa NZ;- a deeper understanding and appreciation of cultures other than your own;- skills in research, analysis and essay writing – key critical and communicative skills thatare sought by employers and can be used in a range of applications.In addition, for students majoring in Japanese, this course will provide you with:- a deeper knowledge and understanding of Japan that will: o underpin and complement your language studies and o enhance your capacity to comprehend and critically evaluate Japan-relatedtopics/issues- some specialised knowledge of two of Japan’s major creative arts; film and literature;- an awareness of global influences on Japan;- the ability to situate some key historical events and socio-cultural changes in Japan within abroader, and where applicable, global context
This course will provide students with an opportunity to develop the Graduate Attributes specified below:
Critically competent in a core academic discipline of their award
Students know and can critically evaluate and, where applicable, apply this knowledge to topics/issues within their majoring subject.
Employable, innovative and enterprising
Students will develop key skills and attributes sought by employers that can be used in a range of applications.
Biculturally competent and confident
Students will be aware of and understand the nature of biculturalism in Aotearoa New Zealand, and its relevance to their area of study and/or their degree.
Globally aware
Students will comprehend the influence of global conditions on their discipline and will be competent in engaging with global and multi-cultural contexts.
JAPA108, orany 60 points at 100 level from the Schedule V of the BA.
Susan Bouterey
No final exam.
There is no required textbook for this course.
Library portalLearn site
Domestic fee $777.00
International fee $3,375.00
* All fees are inclusive of NZ GST or any equivalent overseas tax, and do not include any programme level discount or additional course-related expenses.
For further information see Language, Social and Political Sciences .