JAPA 340: Topics in Japanese Literature

JAPA 340-002: Japanese Science Fiction and Fantasy
(Spring 2020)

04:30 PM to 05:45 PM TR

Enterprise Hall 275

Section Information for Spring 2020

JAPA 340 - 002: Japanese Science Fiction and Fantasy

This course will provide an overview of the major tropes, themes, and interpretations of contemporary Japanese science fiction and fantasy. As we establish a foundational knowledge of the history and structural formulations of genre fiction in Japan, we will cover topics such as folklore, high fantasy, apocalypse, dystopia, magical realism, posthumanism, video games, and transnational media franchises and cross-cultural marketing.

On Tuesdays we will situate representative works and writers within a broader context while making comparisons with stories told in different cultures and in different media formats. Thursday classes will focus on close readings, discussions, and in-class writing assignments. This course is designed to help strengthen proficiency in the methods of formal literary and media analysis, and students will also be encouraged to develop critical thinking by means of creative expression, which will be fostered by prompts based on the course texts.

By the end of the semester, students will possess a deeper understanding and appreciation of the role that science fiction and fantasy play in shaping contemporary media cultures in Japan and around the world.

Tags:

Course Information from the University Catalog

Credits: 3

Study of selected topics in Japanese literature in English translation. Content varies. Notes: May be repeated when topic is different with permission of department. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
Mason Core: Literature
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies, Non-Western Culture
Recommended Prerequisite: ENGH 101 or equivalent, or permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

The University Catalog is the authoritative source for information on courses. The Schedule of Classes is the authoritative source for information on classes scheduled for this semester. See the Schedule for the most up-to-date information and see Patriot web to register for classes.