Asian Studies

This introductory course examines historical development and cultural aspects of East Asian calligraphy. Course emphasizes Chinese Hanzi characters, but also includes the Japanese Kana syllabary, and the Korean Han'gul alphabet. Includes analysis of their relation with East Asian philosophy, religion, literature, and arts.

This course explores religious and cultural traditions, and socio-cultural issues in East Asia, India, and Southeast Asia. Examines ethnic diversity, cultural differences, family structures, marriage systems, colonization, social inequality, socio-political backgrounds, and historical roots through classic and contemporary Asian films and films about Asian societies and culture.

An examination and analysis of Japanese comics (manga) and animation (anime), and the role they play in Japanese culture as artistic forms of expression, an industry, and as representations of history and contemporary social conditions.