Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures
Why study East Asian languages and cultures?
We cover China, Japan, and Korea, three of the oldest continuous civilizations in the world. Study of these languages and cultures opens the door to immensely rich traditions in literature, philosophy, and art, as well as contemporary global phenomena such as Anime, K-pop, popular cuisines, and martial arts. And, with its long tradition of invention and creativity, East Asia is at the forefront of technological innovation today. Mainland China and Japan have the world's largest economies after the United States, and, along with South Korea and Taiwan, are key U.S. trading partners. Thousands of US companies do business with East Asia. Economic and political relations with East Asia are of critical importance to the US and are becoming more significant every year.
Studying with us will prepare you for today’s interconnected world, open up opportunities for travel and adventure, and give you a competitive edge when you enter the job market. Learning an East Asian language and culture at KU is a fun, rewarding experience, and many students also study-abroad in East Asia while at KU. Students often pair an EALC major or minor with a second major to widen their skill-set and increase their competitiveness as they enter the global marketplace. Our graduates have gone on to successful positions in business, government, finance, non-profit organizations, teaching, research, and many other fields.
Undergraduate Programs
The department offers a full program of instruction in the languages, literatures, and cultures of China, Japan, and Korea.
With an EALC B.A., students can pursue a range of careers in business, government, education, nonprofit organizations, and many other fields, or continue on to graduate study in East Asian languages and literatures or related fields. Many students pair an EALC major or minor with a second major to widen their skill-set and increase their competitiveness as they enter the global marketplace. Some students choose an EALC B.A. to fulfill personal interests or connect with their heritage.
Placement
If students have already learned Chinese, Japanese, or Korean to some degree, whether at home, in a classroom, or elsewhere, they must take a placement test before enrolling in a language class. For more information on placement and proficiency exams see the department website or contact the department administrator at 785-864-9250, email: ealc@ku.edu. There is no fee for a placement test. To be eligible for enrollment in intermediate Chinese, Japanese, or Korean, a student must have earned college credit for the first year, or have earned 2 years of high school credit in that language, or have permission from the department based on the results of the placement test.
Retroactive Credit
Students with no prior college or university Chinese, Japanese, or Korean course credit are eligible for retroactive credit according to this formula:
- Students who place into second-semester Chinese, Japanese, or Korean (CHIN 108, JPN 108, KOR 108) and earn grades of C or higher may receive 2 hours of retroactive credit.
- Students who place into third-semester Chinese, Japanese, or Korean (CHIN 204, JPN 204, KOR 204) and earn grades of C or higher may receive 5 hours of retroactive credit.
- Students who place into fourth-semester Chinese, Japanese, or Korean (CHIN 208, JPN 208, KOR 208) and earn grades of C or higher may receive 7 hours of retroactive credit.
- Students who place into fifth-semester Chinese, Japanese, or Korean (CHIN 504, JPN 504, KOR 504) and earn grades of C or higher may receive 10 hours of retroactive credit.
Students who want to be considered for retroactive credit must:
- Meet with their language faculty advisor to discuss previous study and familiarity of the language.
- Take a placement test to confirm language placement.
- Then, upon completion of the course, reach out to the EALC undergraduate advisor to receive credit
Regardless of the number of credits received, students will be charged $50.00 by the Bursar’s office after the credits have been applied to their transcript.
Courses for Non-majors
Courses in English, suitable for non-degree seeking students, are listed under "EALC" (East Asian Languages and Cultures).
EALC also offers elementary and intermediate language courses in Tibetan (TIB 101, TIB 102, TIB 201, TIB 202) and Uyghur (UYGR 101, UYGR 102, UYGR 201, UYGR 202). Tibetan and Uyghur language studies can be used to fulfill the CLAS second language requirement necessary to complete the B.A. degree.
Graduate Program
M.A. in East Asian Languages & Cultures
The Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures (EALC) is the only department in Kansas offering a regular program of instruction in the languages, literatures, and cultures of East Asia.
The EALC M.A. program trains students who will devote themselves to becoming effective links between the East Asia and the United States.
Students concentrate in Chinese, Japanese, Korean, or East Asian Cultures, usually entering the program with at least two years of college-level language. The program typically takes two years to complete, including the defense of a Master's thesis or oral defense for non-thesis students.
Graduate Non-Degree Seeking Status
Students who are interested in enrolling in graduate-level coursework in the Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures without formal admission to a graduate program at KU are encouraged to apply for graduate non-degree seeking student status. See the department’s webpage for further details.
Center for East Asian Studies
The Center for East Asian Studies is a National Resource Center funded by the U.S. Department of Education. CEAS promotes East Asian language and area studies; coordinates interdisciplinary activities; works with the East Asian Library; advises students in East Asian studies; awards Foreign Language and Area Studies Fellowships in Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Uyghur, and Tibetan; and arranges special events related to East Asia on campus. CEAS also offers outreach to schools, businesses, and the community and serves as a regional resource for information about East Asia.
Courses
Three hours of class per week plus outside use of recorded text materials. Basic spoken language instruction intended primarily for beginners planning travel or work in China and Taiwan. Introduction to basic written characters. Does not fulfill College of Liberal Arts and Sciences foreign language distribution requirements or department major and minor requirements.
Taught mainly in the summer, this course covers about 75% of the material in CHIN 104, upon which this course is modeled.
An introduction to spoken and written modern standard Chinese (Mandarin). Three hours of lecture and three hours of spoken drill each week. Not open to students with native ability in Mandarin or Chinese dialect. Students who have any previous knowledge of Chinese must take a placement exam before enrolling in Chinese classes at K.U. Consult Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures for details. For summer session intensives the course meets for 20 hours a week.
This course is designed for students who have already acquired some elementary Chinese language abilities (in high school or from family), but cannot be placed in CHIN 108, Elementary Chinese II. The course focuses on perfecting listening, speaking, reading and writing skills, and prepares students for CHIN 108. For admission to the class, students must take the EALC Chinese placement exam, be interviewed by designated instructors, and approved.
Practice in speaking, presentation of prepared talks, and guided discussions. This course is primarily used to award transfer credit and does not fulfill any portion of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences foreign language requirement. Prerequisite: CHIN 204 or equivalent.
Designed for students, Chinese heritage speakers as well as second-language Chinese learners, who wish to learn or improve their abilities in reading and writing Chinese characters. Focuses on the 500 most commonly used Chinese characters and the major concepts essential for reading and writing Chinese characters. Chinese culture, customs and history that are reflected in Chinese characters will also be introduced.
Instruction in reading and writing Chinese for students who already possess a degree of oral/aural proficiency. This course will prepare students for enrollment in CHIN 504, Advanced Modern Chinese I. No prerequisites. Consent of instructor required.
An introduction to Classical Chinese through detailed analysis of short original passages from a variety of early Chinese texts. Students gain a foundation in the grammar and vocabulary of Classical Chinese, preparing them for CHIN 544. The course is offered at the 300 and 500 levels, with additional requirements for students taking the 500 level. Prerequisite: A basic knowledge of Chinese characters (e.g. from CHIN 108 or JPN 108) and consent of the instructor, or CHIN 208 or JPN 208. Not open to students who have completed CHIN 542.
Guided discussions designed to increase fluency and further improve pronunciation. Prerequisite: CHIN 504 or equivalent.
Readings in Chinese on a subject selected by a student with the advice and direction of the instructor. Individual meetings and reports. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Five hours of class and two of drill. Readings in selected modern Chinese literary texts and discussion in Chinese of recordings of stories and dramas. Prerequisite: CHIN 208 or equivalent.
Readings in modern Chinese texts on a variety of subjects and discussion in Chinese. Prerequisite: CHIN 218 or equivalent.
An introduction to Classical Chinese through detailed analysis of short original passages from a variety of early Chinese texts. Students gain a foundation in the grammar and vocabulary of Classical Chinese, preparing them for CHIN 544. The course is offered at the 300 and 500 levels, with additional requirements for students taking CHIN 542. Prerequisite: A basic knowledge of Chinese characters (e.g. from CHIN 108 or JPN 108) and consent of instructor, or CHIN 208 or JPN 208. Not open to students who have completed CHIN 342.
Classical Chinese is the language of the most famous works of Chinese philosophy, and most Chinese literature before the twentieth century. This topics course introduces readings on a specific theme or genre, for example: Early Chinese Philosophy, Poetry, Religion, Confucian Philosophical Texts, Daoist Philosophical Texts, etc. Primary-text readings are in original Classical Chinese while secondary readings are in English. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 level. Not open to students with credit in CHIN 744. Prerequisite: CHIN 342 or CHIN 542 or consent of the instructor. May be repeated for credit if content varies.
Readings and interpretation of varied modern Chinese texts. Continued study of the language in the form of oral discussion and written reports. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 level. Not open to students with credit in CHIN 762. Prerequisite: CHIN 508 or equivalent.
Students will read selections from materials on a given topic or topics. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: CHIN 564 or permission of instructor.
Classical Chinese is the language of the most famous works of Chinese philosophy, and most Chinese literature before the twentieth century. This topics course introduces readings on a specific theme or genre, for example: Early Chinese Philosophy, Poetry, Religion, Confucian Philosophical Texts, Daoist Philosophical Texts, etc. Primary-text readings are in original Classical Chinese while secondary readings are in English. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 level. Not open to students with credit in CHIN 544. May be repeated for credit if topic varies. Prerequisite: CHIN 342 or CHIN 542 or consent of the instructor.
Readings and interpretation of varied modern Chinese texts. Continued study of the language in the form of oral discussion and written reports. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 level. Not open to students with credit in CHIN 562. Prerequisite: CHIN 504 or equivalent.
Advanced language training for the study of Chinese sources in the humanities or social science field of the student. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Courses
A basic introduction to religion in India, China, and Japan with emphasis upon religions that affect the modern period. (Same as REL 106.)
This course explores works of contemporary Japanese media in their socio-historical, cultural, and political contexts and in conversation with each other (the Japanese “media ecology”). Throughout the course we will examine such genres in contemporary Japan as manga, anime, popular music, (video)games, television shows, and film. These popular cultural expressions will be explored against the backdrop of modern Japanese technology and media, including the intertwining of these popular culture genres (“media mix”). In addition to developing an understanding about contemporary Japan through the lens of popular culture, we will develop close reading skills of various media forms, critical and aesthetic appreciation, and theoretical approaches to popular culture, media, and technology. No prior knowledge of Japan or Japanese is required.
A survey of the commonly held ideas about the beginning of the world, the role of gods and spirits in daily life, and the celebrations and rituals proper to each season of the year. The purpose of the course is to present the traditional world view of the peoples of East Asia. (Same as ANTH 293, REL 130.)
How can ethical codes help us lead a better life? What principles of government will ensure an ordered and harmonious society? What responsibilities do we have to others and to the natural world? Thinkers in early China asked these questions and came to a variety of different conclusions, ranging from a goal of spontaneous harmony, to a rigid law-and-order ethic. Their ideas are still relevant today and in this course we will both survey these different ethical perspectives and also apply them to contemporary social, political, and environmental issues.
Special purpose subject in East Asia and contiguous regions.
Topics are various aspects of Chinese and Japanese cultures.
Special purpose subject in East Asia and contiguous regions.
This course explores culture-specific methods that people in East Asia employ to enhance their wellbeing and happiness and the creative ways in which they weave together different perspectives and practices (old and new, native and foreign, lay and expert) to deal with emotional and psychological distress. This course draws upon a multi-disciplinary approach to happiness, utilizing primarily anthropology, sociology, and human geography. Knowledge of Korean, Japanese, or Chinese language is not required. (Same as GEOG 303 and GIST 302.)
A survey of the major works of Japan's long literary heritage. Readings from such classics as the Tale of Genji, the world's first novel, No drama, and poetry will acquaint the student with one of the world's great literary traditions.
This course surveys the major developments in and critical approaches to twentieth-century Japanese film. Focusing mostly on narrative films, the course introduces students to basic methodological issues in Japanese film history, especially questions of narrative, genre, stardom, and authorship. We examine Japanese cinema as an institution located within specific contexts focusing on the ways in which this institution shapes gender, race, class, ethnic and national identities. This course examines how patterns of distribution, exhibition, and reception have influenced film aesthetics and film style over the last century. Through secondary readings, lectures, and discussions students critically examine how Japanese cinema as an institution both responds to and intervenes in the social, cultural, and political history of twentieth century Japan. The course is offered at the 300 and 700 levels, with additional assignments at the 700 level. (Same as FMS 315.)
A survey of major works of fiction and film in modern Japan. Topics include the social and spiritual challenges of modernization, urbanization, and the issues of race and national identity. Works by Akutagawa, Kawabata, Kurosawa, Ogai, Ozu, Soseki and Tanizaki and others are covered. Lectures, discussion, readings, and films in English. Knowledge of Japanese language is not required. This course is offered at the 300 and the 700 levels, with additional assignments at the 700 level. Not open to students who have completed EALC 716.
A survey of major literary and cinematic works of Japan's post-war and contemporary eras. Topics include life during and after the war, the experience of the atomic bomb, and the postmodern landscape. Novels by Dazai Osamu, Mishima Yukio, Oe Kenzaburo, Murakami Haruki and Yoshimoto Banana and films by Imamura Shohei, Ozu Yasujiro, Teshigahara Hiroshi and others will be covered. Course format is a combination of lecture and discussion. The course is offered at the 300 and 700 levels, with additional assignments at the 700 level. Not open to students who have completed EALC 717.
A general survey of important Chinese fiction and film of the 20th century. Lectures, readings, and discussions in English. Knowledge of Chinese is not required. Not open to students with credit in EALC 518. This course is taught at the 300 and 500 levels with additional assignments at the 500-level.
A general survey of important Chinese fiction and film from the late 20th century to the present. Lectures, readings, and discussions in English. A knowledge of Chinese is not required. (Not open to students with credit in EALC 519.)
This course offers a sociological and historical exploration of Japan's minorities: the Ainu, Okinawans, Burakumin, and Zainichi Koreans who are often excluded from narratives of Japanese history. Exclusion of the minority issue not only overlooks the existence of minority populations in Japan but also contributes to misconceptions of Japan as a homogeneous country. The course objective is to challenge the conventional master narrative of racial and cultural homogeneity. We shed light on Japan's minorities, their historical experiences, current struggles, and future challenges. This course is taught at the 300 and 600-levels with additional assignments required at the 600-level.
An examination of Chinese literature, history, philosophy, and religion from ancient times to the end of the last dynasty in 1911. Focus on key values, ideas, customs, and ways of living through Chinese history. Lectures, readings, and discussions in English. Knowledge of Chinese not required. This course is taught at the 300 and 500 levels with additional assignments at the 500-level. Not open to students who have taken EALC 530.
Topics in the Chinese and Japanese cultures.
An honors course that may be cross-listed with an existing EALC literature course. Students are required to do additional work. Open only to students in the University Honors Program or by permission of instructor.
Seminar on the major developments in the contemporary (1980-present) Japanese film industry examining how filmmaking practices and film criticism have been influenced by such issues as transnationalism, postcolonialism, critical race theory, postmodernism, and new media. We survey recent industrial and stylistic trends as well as key critical debates. Class discussion, reports, and individual research papers. The course is offered at the 300 and 700 levels, with additional assignments at the 700 level. Formerly known as FMS 543/EALC 543. (Same as FMS 343.) Prerequisite: Junior status.
Manga (Japanese comics) have long been an extremely popular and influential medium in Japan and internationally. Manga offer engaging narratives and visual imagery revealing central concerns not only of Japanese culture, history, society and politics, but also of the global cultural industry. The medium has been studied through various disciplinary lenses ranging from art history to visual culture and media studies, literature, sociology, and anthropology. Through the examination of several manga artists and works from the late 19th century to the present as well as reading a broad range of scholarship, this course explores the major issues addressed and theoretical approaches used in the interdisciplinary study of manga. The course is taught at the 300 and 500-levels with additional work required at the 500-level. Not open to students with credit in HA 544. (Same as HA 344.)
This course examines the cultures of East Asian countries through the lens of language. We will discuss the interactions of language and ideology, government policies, gender and education in East Asia. The course will be relevant for students interested in East Asian anthropology, politics, religion, philosophy, linguistics and language learning. The class has no prerequisites and requires no prior knowledge of East Asian languages or cultures. This course is offered at the 300 and 500 level with additional assignments at the 500 level. Not open to students who have earned credit in EALC 553.
This course explores the history of Japanese prints with special emphasis on ukiyo-e (pictures of the floating world) woodblock prints made during the Edo Period (early 17th to 19th century). The course is organized thematically as well as chronologically and examines woodblock prints by focusing on both design and socio-political history. The course is taught at the 300 and 500-levels with additional work required at the 500-level. (Same as HA 354.)
A comparative examination of the contemporary political institutions, processes and ideas of China, Japan, and Korea. Formerly known as EALC/POLS 656. Not open to students with credit in EALC 656 or POLS 656. (Same as POLS 356.)
Introduction to the history of Buddhist temple buildings, paintings, sculptures and illuminated hand-scrolls in Korea from the 4th through the 19th centuries, with special emphasis on their stylistic, geographical, social, devotional and literary contexts. Current theories and controversies pertinent to the history and study of Korean Buddhist art are also addressed. Not open to students who have taken HA 561 or REL 511. Work requirements will be greater for students enrolled at the 500 level than at the 300 level. (Same as HA 361.) Prerequisite: A college level introduction to Asian art history, or consent of instructor.
This course examines the history, society, and culture of Korea from the end of Choson dynasty through the Colonial period (1910-1945) in its East Asian and global context. The course uses a multi-disciplinary approach, including history, anthropology, literature, and film. Not open to students with credit in EALC 561.
This course examines the history, society, and culture of South Korea from the time of its liberation from Japan in 1945 to the present in its East Asian and global context. The course uses a multi-disciplinary approach, including history, anthropology, literature, and film. This course is offered at the 300 and 500 level with additional assignments at the 500 level. Not open to students with credit in EALC 562.
K-pop, or Korean popular music, has garnered widespread acclaim across the globe. It typically features catchy melodies, synchronized dance routines, and visually stunning music videos. This course provides a critical understanding of K-pop within its broader global context. Students will examine the visual and sonic elements of music videos, dance choreography, fashion, and commercials produced by famous K-pop bands such as BTS and BLACKPINK. The course will also explore how K-pop songs reflect notions of Korean nationalism and address intricate issues surrounding race, gender, and identity. This course emphasizes close analysis of K-pop products, with the ultimate goal of enhancing students' media literacy and enabling them to become more engaged and discerning media consumers. No knowledge of Korean required. (Same as HA 365.)
This course provides basic understanding of fiscal, monetarist, and trade politics; how governments in East Asia use them to pursue growth; the extent to which these governments follow or controvert economics to pursue growth; and how the performances of economies in East Asia relate to the U.S. and global economies. Formerly known as POLS/EALC 666. Not open to students with credit in POLS/EALC 666. (Same as POLS 366.)
The history of Japanese art interpreted from visual, historical, social, religious, and political perspectives. Representative topics: archaeological discoveries, Buddhist images and architecture, gender relationships expressed through art, interactions with different countries, and the roots of modernism in Japanese art. Art history goals: direct engagement with museum collections and enhanced ability to analyze, write about, and talk about art. (Same as HA 367.)
The history of Korean art interpreted from visual, historical, social, religious, and political perspectives. Representative topics: archaeological discoveries, Buddhist images and architecture, gender relationships expressed through art, interactions with different countries, and the roots of modernism in Korean art. Art history goals: direct engagement with museum collections and enhanced ability to analyze, write about, and talk about art.
A survey covering the history of Korean ceramics from prehistoric times through the early modern period, with special emphasis on their stylistic, geographical, social and political context. Topics include celadon-glazed, stamped and slip-decorated stoneware, Korean ceramics related to the Japanese tea ceremony and Mingei pottery. Not open to students who have taken HA 562. Work requirements will be greater for students enrolled at the 500 level than at the 300 level. (Same as HA 362.) Prerequisite: A college level introduction to Asian art history, or consent of instructor.
This course is a thematic introduction to Korean art and culture with an emphasis on modern and contemporary Korea. Pre-modern works are contextualized with respect to contemporary issues. Students learn how to conduct a comprehensive analysis of an artwork by considering the political, historical and social conditions of its time within a broader East Asian cultural framework. (Same as HA 363 and HIST 463.) Prerequisite: An introductory course in art history at the college level, or consent of instructor.
The history of Chinese art interpreted from visual, historical, social, religious, and political perspectives. Representative topics: archaeological discoveries, Buddhist images and architecture, gender relationships expressed through art, interactions between different ethnic groups, and the roots of modernism in Chinese art. Art history goals: direct engagement with museum collections and enhanced ability to analyze, write about, and talk about art. (Same as HA 368.)
This course examines the contemporary popular cultures of Korea, Japan, China, and Taiwan, with particular emphasis on relations between East Asia and North America. Students study the issue of globalization and how the transnational flow of commodities and culture affects local societies and individual identities. They learn to identify, describe, and analyze the cross-cultural content of popular cultural artifacts and modes of expression relating to East Asia. To this end, they explore in detail such subjects as: fashion, foodways, cinema, manga, soap operas, and punk rock. Not open to students who have taken EALC 580.
A survey of Buddhist visual arts (architecture, sculpture, and painting) of India, China, Japan, and Korea. Through an examination of the history of Buddhist art interpreted from visual, historical, social, and political perspectives, the course enables students to analyze a wide range of Buddhist art forms within their regional contexts. Students will also consider how Buddhist-related material functions within museums and engage with local collections. The course is taught at the 300 and 500-levels with additional work required at the 500-level. Not open to students with credit in HA 585. (Same as HA 385.)
A survey covering the development of Japanese painting from the seventh century to the early twentieth century. Topics include Buddhist and other religious paintings, narrative handscrolls, ink painting, decorative folding screens, ukiyo-e prints, and western-style paintings from the late eighteenth through early twentieth centuries. This course is offered at the 300 and 500 levels with additional work required at the 500 level. Not open to students with credit in HA 586. (Same as HA 386.) Prerequisite: An introductory course in Asian art or consent of instructor.
This course covers Japanese visual arts from the Meiji era (1868-1912) through the present day. The course is designed thematically as well as chronologically, and examines painting, sculpture and architecture focusing on both socio-political contexts and artistic concerns that emerged at certain times in recent Japanese history. The aim of this course is to provide first-hand knowledge of Japanese modern and contemporary visual arts as well as an in-depth consideration of some of the key issues attached to Japan's modernization and modernity. The course is taught at the 300 and 500 levels with additional work required at the 500 level. Not open to students with credit in HA 588. (Same as HA 388.)
Survey of selected East Asian forms of musical theater and classical, popular, and traditional musics, with emphasis on historical, stylistic, and cultural considerations. Open to all KU students. (Same as MUSC 408.)
This course uses myth, literature, history, biography, and other documents to discuss sexual politics in China from ca 1500 B.C.E. to the end of the last dynasty in 1911. Topics include: emperors, empresses, and consorts, polygamy, prostitution, love, yin and yang cosmology, the art of the bedchamber, women's literature, and erotic literature. Recommended: A course in East Asian studies. Not open to students who have taken EALC 618. This course is taught at the 400 and 600 levels with additional assignments at the 600-level. Prerequisite: One course in EALC or WGSS.
This course examines everyday life in China from the mid-19th century to the end of the last dynasty in 1911. The focus is on living conditions, social customs, and gender relations of people of all social levels, from emperors and empresses to servants, prostitutes, and concubines. Other topics include: the culture of drugs in the form of opium smoking, including how opium served as a key point of contact between China and the Euro-west; sexual culture, especially in the form of the history of prostitution and gender roles and values in China on the verge of modernity; interactions in daily life between Chinese and Westerners in China; and the experience of China's last imperial rulers. These topics are weighed against the backdrop of the decline of China's last dynasty and the concurrent impact of modernity in the form of social, political and technological change, especially as effected by the intrusion of the Euro-west. This course is offered at the 400 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 level. Not open to students with credit in EALC 720.
Topics in the Chinese and Japanese traditions.
An intensive study of the problems of ideological conflict, diplomatic relations, strategic arrangements, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange in East and Southeast Asia with special emphasis upon the roles of major world powers. Formerly known as POLS/EALC 676. Not open to students with credit in POLS/EALC 676. (Same as POLS 476.) Prerequisite: POLS 170 or consent of the instructor.
Required of all students working for a degree with honors. May be repeated for a total of nine semester hours.
Survey of religious thought and practice in Japan from the Jomon period to the present. This course is offered at the 300 and 500 level with additional assignments at the 500 level. Not open to students with credit in REL 309. (Same as REL 509.) Prerequisite: One course on Religious Studies or East Asian Languages & Cultures.
A general survey of important Chinese fiction and film of the 20th century. Lectures, readings, and discussions in English. Knowledge of Chinese is not required. Not open to students with credit in EALC 318. This course is taught at the 300 and 500 levels with additional assignments at the 500-level. Prerequisite: An introductory East Asian studies course such as ECIV 104 or ECIV 304 or EALC 105; or consent of instructor.
A general survey of important Chinese fiction and film from the late 20th century to the present. Lectures, readings, and discussions in English. A knowledge of Chinese is not required. This course is taught at the 300 and 500 levels with additional assignments at the 500-level. Prerequisite: An introductory East Asian studies course such as ECIV 104 or ECIV 304 or EALC 105; or consent of instructor. (Not open to students with credit in EALC 319.)
An examination of Chinese literature and culture from earliest times to the modern period. This course is taught at the 300 and 500 levels with additional assignments at the 500-level. Prerequisite: An introductory East Asian studies course, such as ECIV 104 or ECIV 304 or EALC 105; or consent of the instructor. Not open to students with credit in EALC 330.
Manga (Japanese comics) have long been an extremely popular and influential medium in Japan and internationally. Manga offer engaging narratives and visual imagery revealing central concerns not only of Japanese culture, history, society and politics, but also of the global cultural industry. The medium has been studied through various disciplinary lenses ranging from art history to visual culture and media studies, literature, sociology, and anthropology. Through the examination of several manga artists and works from the late 19th century to the present as well as reading a broad range of scholarship, this course explores the major issues addressed and theoretical approaches used in the interdisciplinary study of manga. The course is taught at the 300 and 500-levels with additional work required at the 500-level. Not open to students with credit in HA 344. (Same as HA 544.) Prerequisite: A college level introduction to Asian art history or Asian studies, or consent of instructor.
This course examines the cultures of East Asian countries through the lens of language. We will discuss the interactions of language and ideology, government policies, gender and education in East Asia. The course will be relevant for students interested in East Asian anthropology, politics, religion, philosophy, linguistics and language learning. The class requires no prior knowledge of East Asian languages or cultures. This course is offered at the 300 and 500 level with additional assignments at the 500 level. Not open to students who have earned credit in EALC 353. Prerequisite: Any EALC course, or any CHIN, JPN, KOR language course, or any Linguistics course.
This course examines the history, society, and culture of Korea from the end of the Choson dynasty through the colonial period (1920-1945) in its East Asian and global context. The course uses a multi-disciplinary approach, including history, anthropology, literature and film. Prerequisite: An introductory East Asian studies course, such as ECIV 104 or ECIV 304, or EALC 105; or consent of instructor. There are additional readings and more extensive writing assignments than in EALC 361. Not open to students with credit in EALC 361.
This course examines the history, society, and culture of South Korea from the time of its liberation from Japan in 1945 to the present in its East Asian and global context. The course uses a multi-disciplinary approach, including history, anthropology, literature, and film. This course is offered at the 300 and 500 level with additional assignments at the 500 level. Not open to students with credit in EALC 362. Prerequisite: One course on Korea or East Asia.
This course examines the cultural history of Korea in periods prior to the 19th Century. Special attention is given to varying constructions of cultural value, heritage, and identity, together with the historically specific factors that engendered them.
This course will explore Japanese, discovering the phonetic, phonological, morphological, syntactic and semantic features of the language, and discussing the actual use of Japanese in social/cultural contexts. The course will also discuss the acquisition of Japanese, both in children and adult learners. This course will be primarily for students who want to learn about the linguistic aspects of Japanese, rather than to gain a practical command of it. (Same as LING 570.) Prerequisite: A previous LING, JPN, or EALC course.
A detailed study of the phonological and grammatical structure of Chinese and the interactions between language and culture. Depending on student interests, a unit on the pedagogy of teaching Chinese as a foreign language may also be included. Primarily for students who want a linguistic knowledge of the language rather than a practical command of it. (Same as LING 572.)
This course examines the contemporary popular cultures of Korea, Japan, China, and Taiwan, with particular emphasis on relations between East Asia and North America. Students study the issue of globalization and how the transnational flow of commodities and culture affects local societies and individual identities. They learn to identify, describe, and analyze the cross-cultural content of popular cultural artifacts and modes of expression relating to East Asia. To this end, they explore in detail such subjects as: fashion, foodways, cinema, manga, soap operas, and punk rock. More extensive writing requirements than 380. Not open to students who have taken EALC 380.
An intensive survey of China's history from the early 19th century to the present. Key topics include the decline of the traditional system, the rise of communism, the Maoist era, and the tensions of change and control in the 1980s and 1990s. (Same as HIST 584.)
Examines the epochal changes that have occurred in China from Deng Xiaoping's rise to power in 1978 to the present. Includes a focus on the historical background of the revolutionary period before examining the political and economic changes that spawned the 1989 "pro-democracy" movement and the events at Tiananmen Square. The course includes an analysis of the events of the 1990s focusing on U.S.-China political and economic relations and the destabilizing effects of inflation, infrastructural reform, political and economic decentralization, and leadership succession. A previous course on China is helpful, but not mandatory. Students will be guided throughout the course to develop a synthesizing research project that draws from other courses. Not open to students with credit in POLS 468. (Same as POLS 668.)
Specific topical courses will be offered every year covering a number of disciplines. Credit, description, and prerequisites will vary. Note: May be repeated for credit up to the stated limit.
This course offers a sociological and historical exploration of Japan's minorities: the Ainu, Okinawans, Burakumin, and Zainichi Koreans who are often excluded from narratives of Japanese history. Exclusion of the minority issue not only overlooks the existence of minority populations in Japan but also contributes to misconceptions of Japan as a homogeneous country. The course objective is to challenge the conventional master narrative of racial and cultural homogeneity. We shed light on Japan's minorities, their historical experiences, current struggles, and future challenges. This course is taught at the 300 and 600-levels, with additional assignments required at the 600-level. (Same as CEAS 610.) Prerequisite: An introductory East Asian Studies course or consent of the instructor.
This course uses myth, literature, history, biography, and other documents to discuss sexual politics in China from ca 1500 B.C.E. to the end of the last dynasty in 1911. Topics include: emperors, empresses, and consorts, polygamy, prostitution, love, yin and yang cosmology, the art of the bedchamber, women's literature, and erotic literature. Not open to students who have taken EALC 418. This course is taught at the 400 and 600 level with additional assignments at the 600 level. Prerequisite: A course in East Asian studies.
An in-depth examination of China's changing policies toward other countries with special emphasis on policy-making process, negotiating behavior, military strategy, economic relations, and cultural diplomacy. Students will be guided throughout the course to develop a synthesizing research project that draws from other courses. Not open to students with credit in POLS 378. (Same as GIST 678 and POLS 678.) Prerequisite: Sophomore level or consent of the instructor.
This course is required every semester for graduate teaching assistants in the Chinese language program in EALC. The course will cover applicable second language acquisition theories and principles of foreign language pedagogy and focus on teaching methodologies, instructional techniques, and development of pedagogical materials specific to the Chinese classroom. This class will be conducted in a seminar format. Prerequisite: Teaching appointment in the East Asian Languages and Cultures department.
This course is required every semester for graduate teaching assistants in the Japanese language program in East Asian Languages and Cultures. The course will cover applicable second language acquisition theories and principles of foreign language pedagogy and focus on teaching methodologies, instructional techniques, and development of pedagogical materials specific to the, Japanese language classroom. This class will be conducted in a seminar format. Prerequisite: Teaching appointment in the East Asian Languages and Cultures department.
This course is required every semester for graduate teaching assistants in the Korean language program in East Asian Languages and Cultures. The course will cover applicable second language acquisition theories and principles of foreign language pedagogy and focus on teaching methodologies, instructional techniques, and development of pedagogical materials specific to the Korean language classroom. This class will be conducted in a seminar format. Prerequisite: Teaching appointment in the East Asian Languages and Cultures department.
This graduate seminar explores rapidly changing societies in contemporary East Asia, particularly China, Japan, and Korea. The course provides a critical overview of East Asia and its diversity and complexity using cross-cultural perspectives and interdisciplinary social science approaches, and situates East Asian societies in the context of globalization. (Same as CEAS 704.)
This course surveys the major developments in patterns of distribution, exhibition, and reception and their influence on film aesthetics in twentieth century Japanese film. Through secondary readings, lectures, and discussions students will examine how Japanese cinema as an institution responds to and intervenes in the social, cultural, and political history of twentieth century Japan. The course is offered at the 300 and 700 levels, with additional assignments at the 700 level. (Same as FMS 715.)
A survey of major works of fiction and film in modern Japan. Topics include the social and spiritual challenges of modernization, urbanization, and the issues of race and national identity. Works by Akutagawa, Kawabata, Kurosawa, Ogai, Ozu, Soseki and Tanizaki and others will be covered. Lectures, discussion, readings, and films in English. Knowledge of Japanese language is not required. This course is offered at the 300 and the 700 levels, with additional assignments at the 700 level. Not open to students who have completed EALC 316.
A survey of major literary works of Japan's post-war and contemporary eras. Topics include life during and after the war, the experience of the atomic bomb, and the postmodern landscape. The course is offered at the 300 and 700 levels, with additional assignments at the 700 level. An individual research project in an area of the student's special interest will be required. Not open to students who have completed EALC 317.
A general survey of the important writers of the 20th century and their works. Lectures, readings, and discussions in English. A knowledge of Chinese is not required. (Not open to students with credit in EALC 318.)
This course examines everyday life in China from the mid-19th century to the end of the last dynasty in 1911. The focus is on living conditions, social customs, and gender relations of people of all social levels, from emperors and empresses to servants, prostitutes, and concubines. Other topics include: the culture of drugs in the form of opium smoking, including how opium served as a key point of contact between China and the Euro-west; sexual culture, especially in the form of the history of prostitution and gender roles and values in China on the verge of modernity; interactions in daily life between Chinese and Westerners in China; and the experience of China's last imperial rulers. These topics are weighed against the backdrop of the decline of China's last dynasty and the concurrent impact of Modernity in the form of social, political, and technological change, especially as effected by the intrusion of the Euro-west. This course is offered at the 400 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 level. Not open to students with credit in EALC 420. Prerequisite: An upper-level course on China or East Asia or consent of instructor.
A survey of ancient Chinese culture to the Qin period. Major archaeological discoveries and the literary tradition will be taken as the primary evidence through which a number of topics are introduced (for example: environment, food, writing, art, thought, ritual). A knowledge of Chinese is not required.
Seminar on the major developments in the contemporary (1980-present) Japanese film industry examining how filmmaking practices and film criticism have been influenced by such issues as transnationalism, postcolonialism, critical race theory, postmodernism, and new media. We will survey recent industrial and stylistic trends as well as key critical debates. Class includes discussion, reports, and individual research papers. This course is offered at the 300 and 700 levels, with additional assignments at the 700 level. Not open to students with credit in FMS 343/EALC 343. (Same as FMS 743.)
Special topical courses covering a number of disciplines. Credit descriptions and prerequisites will vary. NOTE: May be repeated for up to 12 total credits.
Designed to meet the needs of advanced students whose study in East Asian studies cannot be met with regular courses. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
An inquiry into the source material upon a specific subject.
Courses
This course acquaints the student with the broad outlines of the traditional cultures and literatures of East Asia, and explores the interaction between these regions and cultures as well as their continuities and disparities. Course materials include translations and discussions of original sources. The course is most appropriate for students with no background in Asian culture. Does not complete major requirement. Not open to students with credit in ECIV 304.
This course acquaints the student with the broad outlines of the traditional cultures and literatures of East Asia, and explores the interaction between these regions and cultures as well as their continuities and disparities. Course materials include translations and discussions of original sources. The course is most appropriate for students with no background in Asian culture. Not open to students with credit in ECIV 104. If majoring in EALC and have completed ECIV 104, see major advisor about completing the ECIV 304 major requirement.
An introductory course designed to acquaint the student with the broad outlines of the traditional cultures and literatures of East Asia. By reading translations of original source materials, the student is able to see the interaction among the various cultures as well as their essential continuity. The course is most appropriate for students without any background in Asian culture. Similar to ECIV 304, but reading and writing assignments reflect the fact that this is an honors course. Open only to students in the University Honors Program or by permission of instructor.
Courses
An introduction to modern standard Hindi that emphasizes acquisition of basic language skills (speaking, comprehension, reading and writing) through a combination of lecture, drill, and work with the Devanagari script.
A continuation of Beginning Hindi I that builds on basic skills of speaking and comprehension, and the writing and reading of the Devanagari script developed in Beginning Hindi I. Prerequisite: HNDI 110 or placement exam that establishes a level of proficiency in Hindi suited to Beginning Hindi II.
Enhancement of speaking, comprehension, reading and writing abilities in modern standard Hindi, with emphasis on grammar. Readings will be introduced from representative genres of Hindi literature. Prerequisite: HNDI 120 or placement exam that establishes a level of proficiency in Hindi suited to Intermediate Hindi I.
Enhancement of speaking, comprehension,reading and writing abilities in modern standard Hindi, with emphasis on grammar. Readings will be introduced from representative genres of Hindi literature. Prerequisite: HNDI 210 or placement exam that establishes a level of proficiency in Hindi suited to Intermediate Hindi II.
Investigation of special topics on Hindi culture, language and literature at the undergraduate level. May be repeated for credit when topic varies.
Enhancement of speaking, comprehension, reading and writing abilities in Hindi. Readings are introduced from representative genres of Hindi literature. Prerequisite: HNDI 220 or placement exam that establishes a level of proficiency in Hindi suited to Advanced Hindi I.
Enhancement of speaking, comprehension, reading and writing abilities in Hindi. Readings are introduced from representative genres of Hindi literature. Prerequisite: HNDI 310 or placement exam that establishes a level of proficiency in Hindi suited to Advanced Hindi II.
This course is designed for students seeking proficiency in Hindi beyond HNDI 320. Instructor will direct the student through readings and materials in Hindi that will add to the students substantive knowledge of India and culture in the Hindi language. May be taken multiple semesters for credit with varying content. Prerequisite: HNDI 320, and consent of instructor.
Courses
An introduction to Japanese. Familiarity with the basic structural patterns of the language through conversation is stressed. The hiragana and katakana syllabaries are introduced and a few characters are learned. Usually offered as part of a Summer Study Abroad Program.
Three hours of lecture, three hours of drill per week. Acquisition of basic language skills (listening, speaking, reading, writing). Not available for credit for students who have previously completed JPN 101.
Three hours of lecture, three hours of drill. Prerequisite: JPN 108 or equivalent.
Enhancement of conversational ability at the intermediate level. Used primarily to accommodate transfer credits. Prerequisite: JPN 204 or equivalent.
Instruction in special skills in Japanese, such as pronunciation, recognition of Chinese characters, comprehension of broadcast media, etc. at the freshman/sophomore level. Course work must be arranged through the office of KU Study Abroad and approved by the Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures. May be repeated for credit if content varies.
Instruction in special skills in Japanese, such as recognition and writing of Chinese characters, comprehension of broadcast media, etc. at the junior/senior level. If part of a Study Abroad program, approval by the Department of East Asian Languages and Cultures is required. May be repeated for credit if content varies.
Instruction in discussion in formal contexts and speech making. Prerequisite: JPN 504 or equivalent.
Readings in Japanese on a subject selected by a student with the advice and direction of the instructor. Individual meetings and reports. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Readings in selected modern Japanese texts on various topics: history, education, society, and business. Includes oral discussion and written short essays. Meets five hours per week. Prerequisite: JPN 208 or equivalent.
Readings and interpretation of modern Japanese texts from various fields. Continued study of the language in the form of oral discussion and written reports. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 level. Not open to students with credit in JPN 762. Prerequisite: JPN 508.
A continuation of JPN 562. Reading and analysis of modern or contemporary texts from various fields. Includes oral discussion and written essays. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 level. Not open to students with credit in JPN 764. Prerequisite: JPN 562 or equivalent.
Students will read selections from materials on a given topic or topics. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: JPN 564 or permission of instructor.
Varying topics with varying prerequisites.
Readings and interpretation of modern Japanese texts from various fields. Continued study of the language in the form of oral discussion and written reports. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 level. Not open to students with credit in JPN 562. Prerequisite: JPN 508.
A continuation of JPN 762. Reading and analysis of modern or contemporary texts from various fields. Includes oral discussion and written essays. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 level. Not open to students with credit in JPN 564. Prerequisite: JPN 762 or equivalent.
Advanced language training for the study of Japanese sources in the humanities or social science field of the student. Prerequisite: JPN 564 or consent of instructor.
Courses
Introduction to basic communication skills in Korean and Korean culture; Korean alphabet, survival Korean expressions, cultural etiquette and norms; speaking, listening, reading, and writing in basic Korean. Does not fulfill College of Liberal Arts and Sciences foreign language requirements or department major and minor requirements.
Continuation of KOR 100. Basic communicative skills in Korean. Speaking, listening, reading, writing, and culture are equally emphasized throughout the course. Does not fulfill College of Liberal Arts and Sciences foreign language requirements or department major and minor requirements. Prerequisite: KOR 100 or equivalent.
This course provides an introduction to basic communicative skills in Korean. Speaking, listening, reading, writing, and culture are equally emphasized throughout the course. Three hours of lecture and three hours of drill are included each week. No previous background knowledge of Korean is required.
Intermediate level Korean course with the aim of strengthening skills in listening, speaking, reading, writing and intercultural competence. Three hours of lecture and three hours of drill are included each week. Prerequisite: KOR 108 or equivalent.
Continuation of KOR 204. This course provides further development of intermediate communicative skills in Korean. Speaking, listening, reading, writing, and culture are equally emphasized throughout the course. Three hours of lecture and three hours of drill are included each week. Prerequisite: KOR 204.
Readings in Korean on a subject selected by a student with the advice and direction of the instructor. Individual meetings and reports. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
This course is designed to equip students with proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing, beyond the intermediate level. Three hours of lecture and three hours of drill are included each week. Prerequisite: KOR 208 or equivalent.
This course is the first part of fourth-year Korean. The course is designed to prepare students for oral and written work in advanced level Korean. Prerequisite: KOR 508 or equivalent.
A fifth-year Korean course in which students’ proficiency in Korean will be strengthened via in-depth discussions and writing exercises about complex cultural and social topics. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: KOR 564 or permission of instructor.
Continuation of KOR 562. Reading and analysis of modern or contemporary texts from various fields. Includes oral discussion and written essays. This course is offered at the 500 and 700 level with additional assignments at the 700 level. Not open to students with credit in KOR 564. Prerequisite: KOR 562 or equivalent.
Students will read selections from materials on a given topic or topics. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: KOR 564 or permission of instructor.
Courses
An introduction to the Tibetan language in both its literary and colloquial forms according to the Central Tibetan dialects. Four semesters of 3-credit Tibetan language courses fulfill the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences foreign language requirement.
This course focuses on developing reading fluency in classical and modern Tibetan with continued practice in the spoken language as well. Prerequisite: Tibetan 202 or permission of the instructor.
Courses
Uyghur is an important Central Asian Turkic language spoken by nine million people in China. The first semester is designed to give the student basic communicative competency, including pronunciation and intonation, structure, and syntax. Effective oral and written communication is stressed.