You'll explore novels, short stories, and literary movements from China, Japan, and Korea from the late 19th century to the present. The course covers major authors, cultural contexts, and literary techniques unique to East Asian literature. You'll analyze themes like modernization, national identity, gender roles, and the impact of historical events on fiction.

Is Modern East Asian Fiction hard?

It's not the easiest course, but it's definitely manageable. The reading load can be heavy, and you'll need to familiarize yourself with some historical and cultural contexts. The trickiest part is often grasping the nuances in translated works. But if you keep up with the readings and participate in discussions, you'll be fine. Plus, the stories are usually pretty engaging, which helps.

Tips for taking Modern East Asian Fiction in college

Use Fiveable Study Guides to help you cram 🌶️
Create a timeline of major historical events in East Asia to contextualize the readings
Join a study group to discuss and analyze the texts together
Watch film adaptations of the novels you're reading (like "Raise the Red Lantern" or "Norwegian Wood")
Keep a reading journal to track themes, characters, and cultural references
Explore contemporary East Asian pop culture to see how themes from the literature persist today
Check out Haruki Murakami's "What I Talk About When I Talk About Running" for insights into a modern East Asian author's mind

Common pre-requisites for Modern East Asian Fiction

Introduction to World Literature: This course provides a broad overview of literary traditions from various cultures and time periods. It helps build a foundation for understanding diverse literary styles and themes.
East Asian History: This class covers the major historical events and cultural developments in China, Japan, and Korea. It provides crucial context for understanding the settings and themes in Modern East Asian Fiction.

Classes similar to Modern East Asian Fiction

Contemporary World Literature: Explores global literature from the 20th and 21st centuries. You'll compare works from different cultures and examine how they reflect global issues and experiences.
Postcolonial Literature: Focuses on literature from countries that were once colonized. You'll explore themes of identity, cultural hybridity, and resistance in works from various regions, including some East Asian countries.
Comparative Literature: Analyzes literature across national and linguistic boundaries. You'll develop skills in cross-cultural literary analysis and explore how different cultures influence each other's literary traditions.
Asian American Literature: Examines works by Asian American authors. You'll explore themes of immigration, identity, and cultural conflict, which often intersect with topics in Modern East Asian Fiction.

Comparative Literature: Students study literature from different cultures and languages, developing skills in critical analysis and cross-cultural understanding. It often includes courses on East Asian literature alongside Western and other non-Western traditions.
East Asian Studies: This interdisciplinary major focuses on the languages, cultures, and histories of East Asian countries. Literature courses play a significant role in understanding cultural expressions and societal changes in the region.
World Literature: Students explore literature from various parts of the world, including East Asia. The major emphasizes global perspectives and the interconnectedness of literary traditions across cultures.
Asian Languages and Cultures: This major combines language study with courses on literature, history, and culture. Students gain in-depth knowledge of East Asian societies through their literary and cultural productions.

What can you do with a degree in Modern East Asian Fiction?

Literary Translator: You'd work on translating East Asian literature into English or vice versa. This job requires not just language skills but also a deep understanding of cultural nuances and literary styles.
Cultural Consultant: You could advise businesses, film productions, or publishers on East Asian cultural matters. Your expertise in literature would help provide insights into cultural norms, historical contexts, and societal trends.
International Relations Specialist: Your understanding of East Asian cultures through literature could be valuable in diplomatic or business settings. You'd help facilitate communication and understanding between Eastern and Western parties.
Publishing Industry Professional: You could work as an editor or literary agent specializing in East Asian literature. Your knowledge would be crucial in identifying and promoting works for translation or publication in English-speaking markets.