Questions de littérature japonaise

This course offers an introduction to the history of Japanese literature, from the earliest texts to the twenty-first century. It aims to provide students with essential reference points: major authors, key movements, and works that have shaped the literary tradition.
Particular attention will be given to the materiality of the “book” and its transformations over time. From ancient manuscripts to modern print and contemporary editions, we will examine not only how texts were produced, circulated, and received, but also how technological and social developments influenced their dissemination and interpretation.

By the end of the semester, students will be able to:

• Describe and contextualize the major stages of Japanese literary history, from its origins to the contemporary period.
• Analyze selected representative texts and authors, situating them within their historical and cultural frameworks.
• Explain the role of material supports (manuscripts, printed books, modern editions) in the production and dissemination of literary works.

  

References, bibliography, and recommended reading

Shuichi Kato, Histoire de la littérature japonaise, Vol. 1-3, Fayard, 1986.
Edward Mack, Manufacturing Modern Japanese Literature: Publishing, Prizes, and the Ascription of Literary Value, Duke University Press, 2010.
Peter Kornicki, The book in Japan: a cultural history from the beginnings to the nineteenth century, University of Hawai'i Press, 2001.

Course notes

• Université virtuelle

Contacts

Magali BUGNE : magali.bugne@ulb.be

Campus

Solbosch

Method(s) of evaluation

• written examination

written examination

• Open question with developed answer

40% of the final grade: participation and coursework (attendance, assignments, in-class activities).
60% of the final grade: written exam (long-form essay question).

Language(s) of evaluation

• french