Emory University
Atlanta, GA, January 24–25, 2020
Conference Theme
From Prince Shōtoku’s seventeen-article constitution to the present era of Reiwa, the figure of “harmony” has often been invoked in Japanese literary and cultural history. At the same time, estrangement from the collective has been an equally prevalent theme: experienced by both the exiled courtiers of ancient myths and by the alienated protagonists of modern novels. How has the dynamic of inclusivity and exclusivity functioned as an enduring focus of literary texts? How might we relate the processes of inclusion and exclusion to other questions of interest in literary study such as canonicity, periodization, and identity formation (including national, gender and sexuality, and ethnicity)? What are the stakes involved in drawing boundaries and forging definitions for categories such as center and periphery, or ga/high culture and zoku/popular culture? How might we extend these questions into more meta-level issues such as interdisciplinary and cross-regional studies, definitions of Japanese literature, forms engagement with diverse communities, and accessibility of research materials and other resources?
Co-Organizers
Cheryl Crowley
Yukari Shinagawa
Sponsors
Emory Center for Faculty Development and Excellence
Emory East Asian Studies Program
Emory Department of Russian and East Asian Studies
Emory Hightower Fund
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