JST4580

Japanese literary analysis

Proposed to be offered next in 1999

Alison Tokita

8 or 12 points
* 2 hours per week
* Clayton

Objectives By the completion of the subject, students should become familiar with current literary theories and their application to Japanese literature. Through an independent research project, students will be challenged to undertake original analysis of a work of Japanese literature using an appropriate theoretical framework and methodology.

Synopsis This course assumes that the students have already read widely in Japanese literature in the original language or in translation. On this basis, the course introduces the major theoretical and methodological approaches which have been made to Japanese literature. Native readers will be encouraged to take note of trends in Japanese language literary criticism. Attention will be paid primarily to literature since the modern period. Particular emphasis will be placed on the analysis of literary styles and narrative structure of Japanese writers.

Assessment (8 points) Written assignments (3000 words): 50%
* Seminar participation (1000 words): 10%
* Oral presentation (2000 words): 40%
Assessment (12 points) Written assignments (6000 words): 60%
* Seminar participation (1000 words) 10%
* Oral presentation (2000 words): 30%

Preliminary reading

Eagleton T Literary theory: An introduction Basil Blackwell, 1983

Prescribed texts

Subject materials will be distributed in class