The Japanese Language and its Reflection of Values and Morals in Folktales

Course Description

Summary

Folktales are very interesting sources through which to gain an increased understanding of the cultural values and morals passed on from generation to generation. Gaining insight through these tales can improve comprehension of modern Japanese and the common cultural foundations upon which it is built. In this beginning Japanese course, students will be introduced to some popular Japanese folktales and examine how their values and morals are passed on to children. Students will also compare some of the stories with Western folktales and discuss their opinions and thoughts in Japanese. Students will give presentations throughout the course, and as a final project, act out an original folktale or arranged story to improve their language fluency.