HIST 2806A: Introduction to the History of the Civilization of Japan
日本文明史入門
[Nihon Bunmeishi Nyūmon]
Fall 2024-Winter 2025
Instructor: Professor Jacob Kovalio
Dear Students,
Here is the basic information about this fascinating course:
A. ELEVEN fundamental elements inform Japan’s historical evolution: 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; 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. This inspiring, 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 6th century and 1941.
B. Lectures, discussions and online materials –from documentaries to music – cover all themes. Cultural and artistic events may be added, depending on availability.
C. Students are urged to attend classes regularly. Questions and debates are STRONGLY 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 materials taught in this term) and worth 25% of the final grade. III- One typewritten/hard copy 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 DEADLINES WILL BE STRICTLY OBSERVED. STUDENTS MUST COMPLETE ALL ASSIGNMENTS to be in GOOD STANDING. The basic textbook for the course is the classic J.W. Hall, Japan: from Prehistory to Modern Times. University of Michigan Press,1991. The instructor’s Learning Handbook – a valuable study tool will be available in the Bookstore by late July 2024. Both items are very conveniently priced.