HIST 2806A: History of Japan

HIST 2806A: Introduction to the History of the Civilization of Japan
日本文明史入門
[Nihon Bunmeishi Nyūmon]

Fall 2025-Winter 2026

Dear Students,

This rich, inspiring, fascinating full-year course – taught in two , weekly classes of 1.5 hours each – blends comprehensive factual information and topical analysis of the political (institutional), social, cultural (religion, mythology and art) and economic realms of Japan’s history between the 6^th century and 1941. Here are the relevant components of the course:

A.ELEVEN fundamental, intertwined components underpin Japan’s history: location in the northwestern corner of the Ring of Fire; intense tectonic/volcanic environment; dearth of natural resources; being an island-nation; a complex written language; the non-monotheistic religious duality of Shintō & Buddhism; subservience of religion to political leadership; bureaucratic domination of state and society; existence of one – the world’s oldest- imperial dynasty; readiness to adopt and adapt foreign (Chinese, then Western) institutions/traditions ; self-perception of racial homogeneity.

B. Lectures, discussions and online materials –from documentaries to music – address all topics . Occasional cultural and artistic events enhance the learning experience.

C. Regular attendance is strongly urged.Questions and debates are ENCOURAGED. Social Networking and Eating are allowed ONLY during breaks.

D. GRADING has three components: I – One in-class FALL-Term (late November) identification and definition test, worth 25% of the final grade. – II– One in-class WINTER-Term (late March) identification and definition test (covering only content taught in this term) and worth 25% of the final grade. III- One printed research essay due at the end of term, worth 50% of the final grade and following this format: 1 – A cover page. 2 – A brief opening summary. 3 – Footnotes as citation style. 4 – Up to ten sources – only ONE wikisource 5 – No mandatory length.

E.The basic textbook for the course is J.W. Hall, Japan: from Prehistory to Modern Times. University of Michigan Press,1991. The instructor’s Learning Handbook – a most valuable study tool will be available in the Bookstore by early August 2025. Both are very conveniently priced.