East Asian Literature: Ancient and Modern Voices
Five-Day Seminar Series
Course Dates: Oct. 26, Nov. 15, Dec. 8, Jan. 20, Mar. 3
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Primary Source
PDPs/Credits: 45 PDPs; 2 graduate credits
Fee: Partnership educators—no cost other than fee for 2 graduate credits; Non-partnership educators—$500 plus fee for 2 graduate credits
The diverse and vibrant literatures of East Asia are a window into the cultures of the region. In this course we delve into favorite teachable pieces of literature from China, Japan, and Korea, comparing and contrasting their writing traditions. We'll read excerpts from classics such as Journey to the West and The Tale of Genji and find their resonance in contemporary film, literature, and popular culture. Though texts in translation are the core of our course, we'll also explore the best of young adult and children's books inspired by East Asian stories and settings. Participants will take an in-depth look at literary forms including short stories, novels, poetry, myth, folktales, and memoir. Through the generosity of the American Repertory Theater, a theatrical performance based on a work of literary non-fiction, the world premiere of Wild Swans, is a special feature of the course.
Open to all K-12 educators
Course Topics
Day 1: Literary Traditions of China, Korea and Japan: An Overview
Day 2: Topics in Chinese Literature
Day 3: Topics in Japanese Literature
Day 4: Topics in Korean Literature
Day 5: Memory and History in Modern East Asian Literature with a performance of Wild Swans, a new play at the American Repertory Theater
Selected Presenters: Karen Thornber, Harvard University; Charles Inouye, Tufts University; David McCann, Harvard University
