Module JPNS3021: Japanese Historical and Literary Texts

Department: Modern Languages and Cultures (Japanese)

JPNS3021: Japanese Historical and Literary Texts

Prerequisites

• Japanese Language 2B (JPNS2012), Japanese Language 2A (JPNS2161), Stage 4 Japanese (MLAN 1471) or equivalent (JLPT N2 above)

Corequisites

• Japanese Language 4 (JPNS3012)

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• To develop higher level reading and translating skills based on literary and historical texts in Japanese.
• To introduce students to key debates in Japanese historiography and cultural studies.

Content

• The course will use a selection of Japanese historical and literary texts from the 18th century to the contemporary period for detailed reading, content analysis and discussion in relation to cutting-edge research questions and important past debates in scholarship.

Learning Outcomes

• Knowledge of texts written in Japanese to critically engage with such texts ï‚·
• Knowledge of the vocabulary and rhetorical techniques used in such texts ï‚·
• Knowledge of the cultural, social or political background to the texts

• The ability to understand and critically analyse written and spoken discourse in Japanese, and to mediate between Japanese and English in interpreting and translation ï‚·
• Ability to read high level texts for content comprehension purposes and appreciate their significance at different levels ï‚·
• Ability to place such texts in their literary / intellectual contexts

• Ability to analyse and use complex language ï‚·
• Ability to relate texts to their cultural, social and political environments ï‚·
• Ability to carry out self-directed study and present the results both orally and in writing

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Language classes and seminars; students will be expected to read both Japanese texts and background material out of class.
• Assessment will be a mixture of summative essays and a written examination.
• Each summative essay is based on topics covered during the Michaelmas Term and the Epiphany Term, allowing students the opportunity to critically reflect on ideas and key concepts, and discuss a range of subject-specific issues.
• The examination covers work carried out throughout the year, while assessing students' ability to work under pressure and to prepare for examinations with time management skills.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Oral feedback in classes and seminars

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University