Sacred Japan: Religion, Nature, and the Arts

This seminar style course will provide students with an interdisciplinary study of key concepts, monuments, rituals, and works of art in the Shinto and Buddhist religions of Japan. We will consider the history of Buddhist art and its interaction and synthesis with native Shinto beliefs through an examination of Ise Shrine, Buddhist and Shinto temples and shrines in Nara and Kyoto, mountain temples, and Mount Fuji. Zen temples and gardens will also be discussed. Some familiarity with the history or art of Japan is preferable, but not required. 3 hrs. sem.