This course is an extensive reading workshop on the spatial
configuration (urban planning, urban culture) of modern Japan (from Meiji to
late Showa). The class is composed of three parts: 1) students will read core
English publications (2~3) on the development of modern Japanese spaces; 2)
students will read 1~2 Japanese readings and compare them with the English
scholarship in terms of methodology and perspective. 3) students will choose one
reading related to their own research field and present its analysis in class. The
goal of the course is to give students a foundation to understand English and
Japanese scholarship and methodology of their research fields. The class
requires readings, short reports (less than 3), and a final presentation. The class meets irregularly.