HISTORY OF KOREAN PHILOSOPHY AND RELIGIONS 1

This class presents an overview of Korean philosophy and religions in Korean history, particularly from Chosŏn dynasty (1392-1910) to the mid-20th century. This class covers diverse religious and philosophical topics such as shamanism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Christianity (Catholics and Protestantism), native religions like Tonghak (Eastern Learning), and Shintoism (Japanese native religion) within the historical context. Thus we will look at the concepts of religion, philosophy, thoughts, etc. This class ultimately will show that Korean religions and philosophy in Korean history form a universal world heritage, a topic that has worth studying carefully. Also, we will probe the diverse relationships between state and religion, a diverse relationship that features each society. Thus, in this class, we will probe the historical trajectory of Korean experiences in terms of religions and philosophies with comparative perspectives. Students are expected to participate in lively discussions with a careful reading of weekly assigned materials and to enjoy the original thoughts of Koreans on religions and philosophies.

Students will understand Korean religious and philosophical traditions so that they will see the roots of contemporary Korean religions and society.

Reading assigned materials before each class and raising questions during the class will be strongly encouraged.

* All reading assignments except books are reserved at the Palazzo Vendramin (DSAAM) entrance. Also, you can download academic articles from Google Scholar or Ca’ Foscari Library (SBA).

- Look at the MOODLE

100% Final Exam (two times in January 2025 One in June and one in August or September 2025)(Short answer questions & Essays).

Lecture and Discussion. Usually, I use PowerPoint slides each week for my lecture, which will deal with reading assignments and more.

English

Bring many questions!

written