Modernity, Nation and Identity in Japanese History (1853-1945)

Key information
- Start date
- End date
- Year of study
- Year 4
- Duration
- Term 2
- Module code
- 155900882
- FHEQ Level
- 6
- Credits
- 15
Module overview
Objectives and learning outcomes of the module
On successful completion of this module a student will be able to:
- understand key moments in Modern Japanese history
- demonstrate an understanding of the main debates in the historiography of modern Japan
- identify the theoretical underpinnings to historical scholarship and relate the Japanese case to the global experience of modernisation and modernity
- demonstrate command of the state of the field on a particular topic and ability to design a research project on that basis
- present their work effectively in both oral and written form
Workload
Total taught hours: 20 hours. 1 hour of lecture and 1 hour semiar per week for 10 weeks.
Independent study: 130 hours
Total hours for module: 150 hours
Scope and syllabus
Please note that the syllabus below is for guidance only and may alter.
Week 1: Module Introduction
Week 2: Modernity/Modernisation
Week 3: The Emperor Ideology
Week 4: Nationalism/Nationhood
Week 5: Japan's Expansion to East Asia - an overview
Week 6: Reading Week
Week 7: Japan's Expansion to East Aisa - a case study
Week 8: Imperial Democracy -social and political protest
Week 9: Militarism/Fascism
Week 10: The Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere
Week 11: War and Defeat
Method of assessment
An essay of 2000 words (40%); an essay of 3000 words (60%).
Suggested reading
- K Pyle, The Making of Modern Japan .
- W G Beasley, The Rise of Modern Japan .
- Course pack
Disclaimer
Important notice regarding changes to programmes and modules