This course provides a survey of important works of twentieth-century Japanese fiction. The purpose of this survey is to examine not only the ways modern Japanese artists read, or in some cases, misread their own narrative tradition, but also the ways in which modern narratives work to reinforce or, in some cases, to challenge culturally received images of the self and of social institutions. Topics that will be considered include: the crisis of individualism; relativism and the breakdown of tradition; nostalgia and the uses of the past; war and cultural amnesia; the dynamics of power in determining cultural influence; the conflict between native and foreign; feminist critiques of modern society; cultural authenticity; and Japan as postmodern society. Dist: LIT; WCult: NW.
Requirements:
Class participation means more than just coming to class. Students must be prepared and willing to contribute to class discussions. There will be a number of short papers on works read, to be turned in on the day of the discussion. Homework turned in late will be marked one letter grade down. Quizzes will be given at the discretion of the instructor. Some will be announced, others not.
Texts:
(available at the Dartmouth Bookstore)