Description
Materiality is fundamental for the understanding of every society and culture. At work, at rest, at play, whether other people are involved or not, material things accompany the activities of our body and provide the environment for everything we do. We also express ourselves through the way we live with and use objects.
In contrast to classic courses on material culture that tend to focus on art and craft objects, this course will concentrate on the mundane categories of the daily life in Japan: shelter, dress, and food. This approach will enable us to grasp major characteristics of contemporary Japanese society and its historical connections. The course will also provide the students with theoretical background for the study of material culture.
Teaching method
A combination of lecture and seminar
Admission requirements
n.a.
Course objectives
n.a.
Course load
Introducing students to current theoretical scholarship in the field of material culture, emphasizing its interdisciplinary nature;
Exploration of modern Japan from a micro-perspective, illuminating the consequences of historical forces on Japanese society;
Nurturing of academic skills of presentation and writing.
Required reading
Syllabus Material Culture of Modern Japan
Test method
Participation and webpostings: 30%
Group presentations: 30%
Paper: 40%
Time table
For more information, check time table.
Information
Registration
Via U-twist, check enrollment
More information about:
Contract: www.hum.leidenuniv.nl//contractonderwijs
Blackboard
Yes
Remarks
None