REL 495 D3 - Topics in Asian Religions

Campus: Urbana-Champaign

Description:

Topics in Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, and other Asian religious traditions. Course Information: Same as EALC 495. 3 undergraduate hours. 4 graduate hours. May be repeated to a maximum of 6 undergraduate hours or 8 graduate hours as topics vary. Prerequisite: Sophomore standing or consent of instructor.

Special Instructions:

Karma of Words: Buddhism, Language and the Literary Arts of Japan. The course description is: "The Karma of Words This course explores the relation between Buddhism, Language and the Literary Arts of Japan. After introducing the ideas, motifs, paradigms and images of the Buddhist tradition and reading Buddhist scriptural texts (Buddhcarita, Vimalakirti Sutra, Lotus Sutra) from a literary perspective, we will then analyze how Buddhism was re-expressed and reshaped in Japanese literature through a close reading of court poetry, tales of karma and love, literary essays, noh drama, linked verse and haiku. In addition to these works of literature, we will examine two pivotal thinkers on Buddhism, Language and Literature in Japan: Kukai and Dogen."

Option 1

Course Level: Graduate

Credit: 3

Term(s): Spring