This program aims to train students to decipher and analyze from all angles the various historical, social and cultural aspects of ancient Japan through written documents and materials. Students must reach across traditional academic divisions and be able to handle historical written documents and archaeological records with equal ability. They will also study and be expected to understand and utilize appropriately literature of the period such as waka poetry, kanshi poetry inspired by China, and narrative literature, as well as works of art and archaeological artifacts. Our goal is a realistic and comprehensive reconstruction of ancient Japan through the use of diverse sources, each of which requires different approaches and skills.
