Meiji Gakuin University

This class deals with various global historical issues ranging from politics to culture, sometimes using basic IR (International Relations) theories. The course covers such current issues as US foreign policy, Middle Eastern questions, Russian invasion of Ukraine, conflicts in Africa, re-surging nationalism and gender and minority questions from global historical perspectives.

This course explores various facets of modern Japanese society and culture, including family, education, gender, work, and life cycle through readings and (feature) films. The course considers the relationship between cinema and society, critically analyzing a body of film texts from the contexts of their production and reception, and considers what one can -- and how one can -- learn about any society through its feature films. Each semester focuses on different themes. 

This cours centers on the theme of, "The Samurai across Time and Space." Focusing on the samurai as one of Japan’s most distinctive and enduring cultural icons, it examines various sources, including myths, warrior narratives, medieval tales, dramatic literature, paintings, and samurai films produced within and outside Japan. The course offers a comprehensive view of the history and diversity of samurai representations, revealing how images of premodern Japan and its people have been received and shaped both in Japan and abroad.

The role of media in shaping everyday life is paramount, and understanding it requires consideration of historical, political, economic, and other factors. This course explores the various ways people consume media content in their daily lives, seeking to understand the influence of media on society and culture. It also provides a historical perspective on how media became a crucial component of the human condition. 

This course equips students with essential skills for effective communication and collaboration in diverse, global environments. The course explores various aspects of intercultural competence, from understanding cultural differences to fostering diversity in the workplace. Through readings, discussions, presentations, and projects, participants develop a nuanced understanding of cultural nuances and societal themes.

This course employs two perspectives to understand the histories of modern Japan in the context of East Asia and globalization from the early 20th century to the present. It examines how modern boundaries, identities, and cultures are shaped in a rapidly emerging modern world order. The course also looks at how individuals respond to and are shaped by the variety of modernity(ies).

This course explores the poetic techniques of classical Japanese literature, especially waka poetry, where expressions of natural beauty across the four seasons are often closely linked with human emotions such as love. Through reading and interpreting classical texts centered on waka, including the Kokin Wakashū, Hyakunin Isshu, and Uta Nikki, the class gains insight into these literary traditions.

The course begins with the fundamentals of classical literature, so no prior knowledge is required.

This course covers the economic history of postwar Japan as well as a wide range of current issues. The course discusses the history and structure of Japanese economy as well as its role in the international economy. The course also addresses future challenges and the activities of Japanese multinational firms.

The course provides opportunities to improve one's reading and writing skills by focusing on a variety of patterns of simple and compound sentences, while improving clarity and cohesion in writing sentences.

This course provides students the opportunity to practice vocabulary and grammar at the JLPT N1–2 level, while reading and understanding texts related to Japanese society and specialized fields. The class also covers academic writing formats to enhance logical thinking; writes essays on textbook topics, and engages in presentations and discussions.