1-Japanese Culture-An Introduction in Images

Introduction to Japanese Religion and Culture

• Welcome to RS 2,510: Japanese Religion and Culture

• By Professor Brenton Dickerson

• Course format:

  • Watch one or two lectures by Tuesday

  • Discuss lectures and readings on Thursday, along with pop culture conversations

Personal Experiences with Japan

• Background on Professor's early exposure to Japan:

  • Grew up in Prince Edward Island, familiar with visiting Japanese tourists

  • Connection to Anne of Green Gables

• Nostalgia and cultural experiences:

  • First jobs involved interaction with Japanese tourists

  • Cultural exposure from childhood media (e.g., Astro Boy)

Pop Culture and Historical Context

• Influence of Japanese pop culture:

  • Early exposure to shows like Astro Boy and other media

  • Acknowledgment of Japanese cinema and anime, though less personal connection to samurai films or Godzilla

• Experience in Japan:

  • Moved to Nagano and worked in Karuizawa, a notable tourist town

  • Importance of seasonal beauty and traditions like cherry blossom viewing

Cultural Contrasts

• East vs. West:

  • Japanese self-identification and perspective on foreigners (Gaijin)

  • Contrast in Western attraction and rejection

  • Personal anecdote about being treated kindly in Japan despite historical tensions

• Nature vs. Pop Culture:

  • Existence of serene environments alongside vibrant city life and pop culture

Wedding Ceremonies in Japan

• East-West cultural blend in wedding practices:

  • Conducted Western-style weddings for Japanese couples

  • Unique locations and significance of these ceremonies

Japanese Cinematic Contributions

• Notable films and filmmakers:

  • Hayao Miyazaki's contributions to animation and storytelling

  • Discussion of Hollywood adaptations (e.g., The Ring, Ghost in the Shell)

• Cultural appropriation vs. appreciation in film:

  • Examples like The Last Samurai and Memoirs of a Geisha

  • Consideration of how original Japanese culture is represented

Themes in Japanese Literature

• Introduction to significant literary works:

  • Haruki Murakami's unique narratives (e.g., Hard-Boiled Wonderland, IQ84)

  • The Tale of Genji as a foundational literary work

  • Shusaku Endo's Silence and its literary and religious implications

Diverse Aspects of Japanese Culture

• Modern pop culture phenomena:

  • J-Pop and its prominence

  • Impact of Kawaii culture and its global significance

  • Japanese cuisine and the art of sushi making

• The vastness of manga and its influence on global culture:

  • Significant franchises like Pokémon and their enduring popularity

  • Video games and the cultural ramifications in storytelling

Questions for Class Discussion

• Exploration of students' interests in Japanese culture:

  • Language, literature, film, history, or other aspects

  • Relevant personal motivations for enrolling in the course

• Opportunity for students to interact, ask questions, and share thoughts during office hours and class discussions.