The purpose of this course is to introduce basic texts in order to explore the interactions of religion and gender from the traditional to the modern period in Korea and to relate this material to the general process of cultural development. Korea’s native shamantistic traditions were early supplanted by religions imported through China such as Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. The course is designed to acquaint students with little or no background with some of the classics in the field.
The dominant role of women in Shamanism was reversed as Buddhism and later Cofucianism became state religions and patriarchal values were established. With the advent of Christianity at the dawn of modern era sex roles were again realigned.
Twentieth century works reveal the extent to which the contemporary period is witnessing a resurgence of native religious beliefs as Koreans attempt to redefine their cultural identity in the international age.
Course Credit Exclusion: Prior to Fall 2009: AS/HUMA 3425 6.0; Prior to Fall/Winter 2003-2004 : AS/HUMA 3000D 6.0
