| 21F.039 Japanese Popular Culture |
Examines Japanese popular culture as a way of understanding the changing character of media, capitalism, fan communities and cultural differences. Topics include manga (comic books), hip-hop and other popular music in Japan, anime (Japanese animated films) and feature films, sports (sumo, soccer, baseball), and online communication. Emphasis on contemporary popular culture and theories of gender, sexuality, race, and the workings of power in global culture industries. Several films screened outside of regular class meeting times. Taught in English. 21F.591 is for students pursuing a minor in Japanese; students complete some assignments in Japanese. |
| 21F.063 Anime: Transnational Media and Culture |
Explores anime (Japanese animated films and TV shows) as a study in flows among media and cultures. Discusses Japan?s substantial share of the TV cartoon market and the reasons for anime?s worldwide success. Focuses on cultural production and the ways anime cultures are created through the interactive efforts of studios, sponsors, fans, broadcasters and distributors. Uses anime scholarship and media examples as a means to examine leading theories in media and cultural studies, gender and sexuality, technology and identity, and post-industrial globalization. Taught in English. 21F.596 is for students pursuing a minor in Japanese; students complete some assignments in Japanese. |
| 21F.064 Introduction to Japanese Culture |
Examines the major aesthetic, social, and political elements which have shaped modern Japanese culture and society. Readings on contemporary Japan and historical evolution of the culture are coordinated with study of literary texts, film, and art, along with an analysis of everyday life and leisure activities. Taught in English. 21F.592 is for students pursuing a minor in Japanese; students complete some assignments in Japanese. |
| CMS.100 Introduction to Media Studies |
Offers an overview of the social, cultural, political, and economic impact of mediated communication on modern culture. Combines critical discussions with experiments working with different media. Media covered include radio, television, film, the printed word, and digital technologies. Topics include the nature and function of media, core media institutions, and media in transition. |
