Japanese Aesthetics and Poetics

Focuses on the historical development of aesthetic values and their relation to social culture, religion, and national identity in Japan from the Nara period to the 20th century, with particular emphasis on the literary arts. Readings from Fujiwara Teika, Zeami Motokiyo, Sen no Rikyū, Okakura Tenshin, and others. A background in critical theory/philosophy and in East Asian studies helpful.