Folklore | East Asian Popular Religion
F305 | 10398 | Janelli
Description and Objectives. This course has two objectives. The
first is to explore the range of popular religions that can be found
in contemporary China, Japan, and Korea. Topics include: shamanism
in Korea, Japanese Shinto, and Chinese popular beliefs and
contemporary practices related to filial piety. As part of the
cultural studies curriculum, the course has a second objective of
helping students to enhance their skills in interpreting cultures
and thereby develop more informed understandings of the various ways
of life found throughout the world. The two objectives are pursued
through assigned readings, lectures, videos, slides, class
discussions, and individual reflection. The topics of the readings
and audiovisual material are varied and deal with diverse topics,
but all are devoted to viewing popular religion in relation to local
culture and society.
Grading Policies. Grades are determined as follows:
(a) Three examinations each contribute 22% of the grade for the
(b) Students are asked to prepare for most weeks a one-page, double-
spaced (i.e., about 250-300 words) synopsis of the reading
assignments for the day the synopsis is due and the previous class.
One question suitable for class discussion should be added to the
synopsis. These synopses and questions are to be typed or computer-
printed and submitted at the beginning of class. They will be
graded and will contribute 22% of the semester's grade.
(c) The remaining 12% of each person's grade is determined by
attendance and contributions to class discussions.
Fulfills COAS Arts and Humanities, CSA