History 111
East Asia: Culture and Civilization

Dr. Yi-Li Wu

208 Robinson Hall
E-mail: ywu@albion.edu

This introductory survey examines changes and continuities in East Asian society and politics from the 6^th century to the present, with an emphasis on the history of China, Japan, and Korea. The course addresses four main themes: cultural exchange in Asia prior to the 19th century, Western imperialism in East Asia, socialist and nationalist movements, and the rise of East Asia as an important player in international politics and economics.  

Class meetings will combine lectures, student discussions, and audio-visual presentations. Course readings will draw heavily on primary sources such as autobiographies, government documents, and oral histories. Class assignments will provide students with opportunities to develop their writing and analytical skills. Course requirements include quizzes, weekly journals and writing assignments, a midterm, and a final.

There is no prerequisite for this course.

History 111 fulfills the Social Sciences core requirement.