China and Japan: Traditional and Contemporary “Silk Roads”


Spring 2016 quarter

Taught by

visual arts, Chinese studies, human development
Japanese language and culture

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

International studies, Cultural studies, Education, Consciousness studies, Arts

Location and Schedule

Campus location

Olympia

Schedule

Offered during: Weekend

Advertised schedule: Saturdays, 9am-5pm. First meeting April 2, 9:00a, Seminar 2 D1105.

Books

Buy books for this program through Greener Bookstore.

Online Learning

Hybrid Online Learning 25 - 49% Delivered Online:

Required Fees

$50 for field trip costs and workshop supplies

Registration Information

Credits: 8 (Spring)

Class standing: Freshmen–Senior

Maximum enrollment: 50

Spring

Course Reference Number

(8 credits): 30261

Go to my.evergreen.edu to register for this program.

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