Prospectus

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Focus 3+4: Ethics, Violence, Martial Arts

Course
2008-2009

The figure of the East Asian martial artist has become extremely popular in the modern period. S/he is represented as more than a fighter, but often as morally cultivated. Furthermore, a direct connection is often drawn between the practice of the martial arts and moral development. In this way, the martial arts have come to be perceived as a paradox: manifesting violence and ethical dignity at the same time.

However, what is the truth that lies behind this popular image? Is this image an example of the ‘invention of tradition’ in the modern world? How have the martial arts really developed in East Asia? What is their relationship with religious, political and other cultural factors? What roles have martial artists actually played in the history of East Asia?

This course will explore the social, political and cultural contexts of martial arts practice in East Asia, with a particular focus on the ways in which this practice can be related to ethical categories. Hence, we will consider the dynamics of transmission as well as textual traditions. Finally, we will consider what (if anything) is ‘East Asian’ about the relationship between ethics and violence in the martial arts.

Rooster

see - rooster

Onderwijsvorm

seminar

Literatuur

A reader will be prepared.

Toetsing

*Participation element (incl. attendance, and presentation): 30% *Analytical element (analytical essay (1,000-1,500 words)): 20% *Research element (research essay (2,000-2,500 words)): 30% *Summative element (exam): 20%

Informatie

Prof.dr CS Goto-Jones: c.goto-jones@hum.leidenuniv.nl

Aanmeld- en inschrijfprocedure colleges en tentamens: www.hum.leidenuniv.nl/japans/studenten/aanmeldingsprocedure.jsp

Ingangseisen

No previous knowledge required. Open to keuzevakstudenten. There is an enrolment cap of 30 students for this course.