Topics in Japanese Culture and Society
Religion and Culture · 3 hrs Seminar/Discussion
REL-4720 prerequisites
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Description
This course explores the development of intellectual culture in Tokugawa Japan (1600-1858). We examine the slaughter of Japanese Christians and Confucianism's subsequent rise as a state ideology for the Shogunate. We study how an increasing number of scholars responded to Chinese learning by turning toward Neo-Confucianism, Japanese nativism, and Western learning, as alternatives to Classical Confucian education. Along with the diversity of thought, we explore how popular culture materialized in forms of print literature and theatrical entertainment. Finally, we focus on the culture of dissent that emerged as the Shogun's reign came to an end.
Requisite courses
One of REL-1002, REL-2704, REL-2705, REL-2707, REL-2708, REL-2709, REL-2718, or REL-2721 [prerequisite(s)].
Restrictions
Honours Form Required. Students may not hold credit for this course and EALC-3720 | EALC-4720 | REL-3720.
Cross-listed
From the 2026-27 undergraduate calendar. Always verify details on WebAdvisor or with an academic advisor before registering.