Topics in Korean Literature and Culture: Buddhist Culture of Korea

This interdisciplinary seminar is an introduction to the history of Buddhism in the Korean Peninsula from its introduction (ca. 4th century) to the 21st century. Rather than as a comprehensive chronological outline of Korean Buddhism, the course is conceived as a thematic examination of significant historical moments, individuals, texts, and practices. In particular, the course will focus on three thematic clusters: 1) the relationship between Buddhism and power, as seen, for example, in the ancient Korean kingdoms and under the Japanese colonial government; 2) Buddhist contributions to the welfare and satisfaction of the people, as manifested through "miracles" and other numinous episodes recorded in Korean and East Asian literature; and, 3) Buddhist approaches to self-cultivation, with a focus on the Seon tradition (better known in the US as Zen), the most prominent form of Buddhism in Korea. Basic historiographical and methodological issues will also be discussed. Previous coursework on Buddhism or Korean history is recommended but not required, and no knowledge of Korean is required. Fulfills premodern elective for EALC major.
Course Attributes: EN H; BU BA; AS HUM; AS LCD; AS SD I; UC CD; FA HUM; AR HUM

Topics in Korean Literature and Culture: Buddhist Culture of Korea

KOREAN 355

Section 01