Encountering 'the Other' in Modern Japanese Literature

4.0 credits

This course explores how “otherness” and the image of “the other” is expressed in modern and contemporary works of Japanese fiction. Throughout the class, we will explore together depictions of those deemed to be “others” due to their nationality, gender, physical appearance, or ethnicity among other elements. By the end of this class, students will become familiar with the concepts of the self and otherness and be able to recognize them within the context of Japanese modern and contemporary literature. By engaging with these concepts both during class discussion and in written responses and essays, students will sharpen their analytical skills and develop their own critical voices.