Folklore Studies of Japan: its Forming Days

Outline of the formation of Japanese Folklore through the introductory lectures on two eminent founders, ie: Minakata Kumagusu and Yanagita Kunio. Two pioneers of the Folkloristic studies on Japan as a branch of Japan studies are introduced through reading their own texts as well as monographial articles on them.

Through the attendance of lectures and thorough reading of the relating documents, students should get a better understanding of how and by which kinds of efforts the Japanese Folklore studies came to be formed around the beginning of the twentieth century.

Lectures (documentation and explanation based on the handouts) in addition to the occasional presentations and discussions by the participants.
Themes and materials would be changed flexibly according to the needs of the participants.

Occasional activities out of the classroom (for example gallery visits) may take place during the term.

Through daily discussions in the classes

Preparatory and complementary readings before and after each session are essential.

Presentation and participation in the class(40％); Submission assignments during the term(30％); Term-end essay(30％)

No textbook required. Handouts are to be delivered at each session.

To be introduced when necessary.

Keen academic interests in the intellectual history of modern Japan are prerequisite.
Reading skills of pre-modern Japanese texts are preferable, though not mandatory.