INTRODUCTION TO POPULAR CULTURE (POPPUKARUCHAA NYUUMON)

Learning Outcomes :

On successful completion of this course, student will be able to: LO-1 : analyze Japanese popular culture as a form of cultural production shaped by historical, economic, and political contexts, using interdisciplinary methods from media studies, anthropology, and cultural theory; LO-2 : evaluate how popular culture constructs and negotiates concepts such as identity, gender, nationalism, and globalization, both within Japan and in transnational settings; LO-3 : interpret the significance of cultural artifacts (e.g., characters, anime, fashion, digital media) by situating them within broader narratives of commercialization, fandom, and social discourse.

Topics :

1. What Is Japanese Popular Culture?
2. Characters and National Identity
3. Heroism and Justice in Tokusatsu
4. Gender and Romance in TV Dramas
5. Video Games and Social Critique
6. Fan Culture and Participatory Media
7. Virtuality and Idol Culture
8. Kawaii Aesthetics and Cute Culture
9. Japanese Horror and Gender
10. Anime, Media Mix, and Ghibli
11. Manga and Social Commentary
12. Otaku Culture and Urban Space
13. Rewriting High vs Popular Culture