Prerequisite: JAPN201 with a C- or better.

This course explores topics in the field of linguistic pragmatics (the study of language use in context) with a focus on stylistic variation inthe films of Miyazaki Hayao and Studio Ghibli. We begin with an introduction to pragmatic concepts such as deixis (how language indexes social, temporal, and spatial relationships), speech acts (how utterances function as requests, orders, apologies, invitations, etc.), and linguistic politeness. Readings, class discussions, quizzes, and homework assignments will first address these concepts through English examples, and subsequently apply them to excerpts drawn from Miyazaki s works, with special attention to how the linguistic behavior of a character contributes to his or her overall portrayal in a film. We conclude with individual multimedia projects developed and presented by the students.

Cross-listed with WGSS498B. Credit only granted for JAPN498A or WGSS498B.

This course examines a wide variety of representations of femininity and masculinity in Japan by taking a critical lens to fiction, film, drama, art, and legal documents. We will "trouble" (complicate and deconstruct) received notions of gender and sexuality by learning how non-normative notions of gender and sex have been seen as troubling and troublesome in Japanese history. To that end, we explore why "poison women," "modern girls," "new-halfs," and "boy's love" can help us radically rethink the assumed "natural" links between sex, gender, and desire.