Department of Japanese Studies, School of Modern Languages and Cultures HKU

This course offers a panoramic view of the literature of the Edo period (1600–1868), one of the most vibrant and productive moments in Japanese literary and cultural history, often described as “early modern.” In addition to introducing students to major authors and texts—covering poetry, narrative prose, theater, and important intellectual currents—the course will explore the various social worlds in which early modern cultural and literary production was rooted: the worlds of the samurai, urban commoners, or the courtesans in the "pleasure quarter."

Elective Course
JAPN2098	Of courtesans, samurai, and vengeful ghosts: Japanese literature of the early modern period	6 credits

This course offers a panoramic view of the literature of the Edo period (1600–1868), one of the most vibrant and productive moments in Japanese literary and cultural history, often described as “early modern.” In addition to introducing students to major authors and texts—covering poetry, narrative prose, theater, and important intellectual currents—the course will explore the various social worlds in which early modern cultural and literary production was rooted: the worlds of the samurai, urban commoners, or the courtesans in the "pleasure quarter."

Assessment: 100% coursework
(Not on offer in 2020/2021)