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The study of Japan offers the student an opportunity to compare and contrast Japanese and European feudalism. The way of the warrior and a study of knighthood show two cultures who reacted to similar economic circumstances in similar and yet very different ways. A study of Japanese creation myths and early Japanese cultures show a society which borrowed heavily from China yet always remained a unique and separate entity. Although Buddhism came to Japan from the mainland, students come to know Zen Buddhism from their study of Japanese brush painting, haiku, and the Zen garden. With "The Tales of Genji," the Japanese created the world's first novel and provided us with an intriguing look at courtly love, and life at court. The literature unit is The Boy and the Samurai which enhances student learning about feudal Japan and the way of the warrior. This piece of literature is read through the seven intelligences. This reinforces students' learning strengths while allowing them to work on areas that are not dominant. |
