JAPN-349 Catholicism in Japanese Culture

JAPN-349 Catholicism in Japanese Culture

Faculty:

Doak, Kevin

Catholicism has a history in Japan longer than the United States has been around. Beginning with the arrival of St. Francis Xavier in 1549, Catholicism has shaped Japanese culture in subtle but profound ways. How many people realize that tempura has its origins in the dietary requirements of Jesuits during Lent (the tempora when meat was not to be eaten)? This course seeks to enrich our understanding of Japanese culture by challenging stereotypes of Japanese culture as either "non-religious" (materialistic) or "not-our-religious" (Buddhist, Confucian, etc). Simultaneously, it challenges Eurocentric views that reduce Catholicism to an expression of Western culture. Readings include historical texts, theological works, and novels (especially the novels by the Catholic writer, Endo Shusaku). Take a course at Georgetown that will introduce you to what St. Francis Xavier struggled with at the end of his life! Course and readings are in English.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites: None

Other academic years
There is information about this course number in other academic years:

• 2004-2005
• 2005-2006
• 2006-2007
• 2007-2008

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