China and Japan: Traditional and Contemporary “Silk Roads”
Spring 2016 quarter
Taught by
This program will introduce the history, culture and philosophy of China and Japan. We will use the theme of Silk Roads in our examination of China as the heart of Asian civilization and Japan as a constant presence at the eastern end of the routes. We will examine Asian philosophies including Daoism, Confucianism, Buddhism and Shintoism. We will learn the ideographic languages and their embedded worldview and sensitivities as expressed in poetry and literature; and we will envision contemporary and future Silk Roads with new trends, aspirations, and beliefs.
Our inquiry into Chinese and Japanese history will focus on periods in which foreign influences were most influential, for example the time when Buddhism, along with tea, traveled on Silk Roads. Another transformation occurred in the 20 th century, with devastating conflicts of WWII. Most of today’s complex political issues between China and Japan stem from this war.
For centuries China has played, and is continuing to play, a central role in Asia. Japan embraced Chinese culture while modifying it to fit Japan’s political and cultural climate and needs. Japanese language, architecture, literature and art are steeped in Chinese influences. Japan is also a repository of both tangible and intangible Chinese culture that has disappeared from China itself. Treasures from the Silk Road and Tang Dynasty dance and music from the 8 th century still survive in Japan. Such heritage has, in turn, helped produce a present day cultural renaissance in China. Much scholarship about China has been continually flourishing in Japan and the contemporary pan-Asian culture is developing beyond national borders.
Program activities will include field trips to the Chinese and Japanese gardens in Portland, Oregon; calligraphy demonstrations and workshops; and learning about Chinese tea culture and Japanese tea ceremony.
Program Details
Fields of Study
Preparatory for studies or careers in
Location and Schedule
Campus location
Olympia
Schedule
Offered during: Weekend
Advertised schedule: Saturdays, 9am-5pm. First meeting April 2, 9:00a, Seminar 2 D1105.