| Unit name | Introduction to Japanese Religions |
|---|---|
| Unit code | THRS30094 |
| Credit points | 20 |
| Level of study | H/6 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24) |
| Unit director | Dr. Lomi |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
None |
| Co-requisites |
None |
| School/department | Department of Religion and Theology |
| Faculty | Faculty of Arts |
This course provides an introduction to the Japanese religious landscape, by focusing on both the historical developments and contemporary characteristics of its traditions. We will explore different religious denominations, groups, and movements, from earliest times to the present, by reading primary sources in translations, watching recordings of ritual performances, and enjoying their artistic productions. Each class will thus be supported by a variety of textual and visual materials that will allow us to appreciate the porous boundaries between religious and cultural practices at different periods of Japanese history.
Students will also learn to recognise issues of religious identity and affiliation proper of the contemporary religious context, learn to trace their origins, and reflect on the historical processes that participated in the construction of certain fixed categories.
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
1 x two-hour lecture weekly
1 x one-hour seminar weekly
One 3000 word summative essay (50%) [ILOs 1-3] and one two-hour exam (50%) [ILOs 1-5]
Tanabe, George, ed. (1999) Religions of Japan in Practice, Princeton, Princeton University Press.
Swanson, Paul, ed. (2006) Nanzan guide to Japanese religions, Honolulu: University of Hawai'i Press
Kasahara Kazuo, ed. (2001) A History of Japanese Religion, Tokyo, Kosei Publishing Co.
