HIST377 HISTORY OF MODERN JAPAN Spring 2004

Department of History Macalester College

Prof. Y. H. Tam MWF 1:10-2:10, OM011

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course aims at introducing the important aspects of political, economic, social and cultural changes in modern Japan from the 18th century to the end of World War II in 1945. The focus is on the process of modernization in Japan. The course will concentrate on four problem areas: the Tokugawa (1600-1868) legacy, the Meiji Restoration of 1853 the Meiji state of 1881-1905, and the military dominance in. the 1930s end 1940s. Through readings, lectures, discussions and audio visual presentations students will also he introduced to issues in Japan’s international relations.

READINGS

Required readings are approximately 80-100 pages per week. There are several outstanding general, historical accounts, but the following books are chosen for most of the assigned readings:

Mikiso Hane. Modern Japan: A Historical Survey. Westview Press.

Ryusaku Tsunoda (ed.) Sources of Japanese Tradition, VoL 2 Columbia U.

Press.

Edwin Reischauer & Albert Craig. Japan: Tradition and Transformation.

Houghton Mifflin.

Recommended Readings:

Carol Cluck. Japan’s Modern Myths: Ideo1ogy in the Late Meiji Period. Princeton U Press.

Herbert P. Bix. Hirohito and the Making of Modern Japan. Harper Collins.

Additional readings, including journal articles, may be assigned from time to time. Students are expected to finish the required readings prior to class meetings.

REQUIREMENTS & ASSESSMENT

Map Exercise 5%
Attendance & Discussion Participation: 20%
Two short papers or book reviews (8-10 pages, each) 40%
Mid-Term Exam 15%
Final Exam 20%

LATE PAPERS & MAKE-UP EXAMS

Except for medical reasons or family emergencies about which the Dean of Students has been properly notified, late papers and make-up examinations will receive a reduction of 20% in grading.

OFFICE HOURS

MWF 10:45- 12:00PM, 2:15-3:15: and by appointment

Room 305, Old Main, Tel. 651-696-6262

Also, please feel free to call me at home (651-457-6529), The best time to get hold of me is 6:30-7:30 p.m.. (except holidays & weekends.)