Stephen Snyder
Kawashima Professor of Japanese Studies
Email: ssnyder@middlebury.edu
Phone: work802.443.5979
Office Hours: Tues, Thurs 3:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m., and by appointment
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Courses
Courses offered in the past four years.
▲ indicates offered in the current term
▹ indicates offered in the upcoming term[s]
FYSE 1313 - Exploring Literary Translation ▹
Disturbing Difference: Exploring Literary Translation
Translation is fundamental to cultural exchange in a globalizing world. Yet few of us are conscious of the role it plays in our lives, and fewer still actually practice the art of translation. In this seminar, we will examine current thinking in translation theory, sample excellent translations, talk and write about them, and then develop our own skills by translating works from various genres and languages for consideration by the group. [Note: Students are required to have a strong reading knowledge of at least one language other than English and be prepared to translate from that language into English.]
Fall 2010, Fall 2012
INTL 0500 - EAS Independent Research
East Asian Studies Independent Project
(Approval Required)
Winter 2009, Spring 2009, Fall 2009
INTL 0704 - EAS Senior Thesis
IPEC 0500 - Independent Project
JAPN 0101 - First-Year Japanese
First-Year Japanese
This course is an introduction to the modern Japanese language aimed at acquisition of the four basic skills speaking, listening comprehension, reading, and writing. The emphasis is on thorough mastery of the basic structures of Japanese through intensive oral-aural practice and extensive use of audiovisual materials. The two kana syllabaries and kanji (characters) will be introduced toward the goals of developing reading skills and reinforcing grammar and vocabulary acquisition. 3 hrs. lect./3 hrs. drill
Fall 2008
JAPN 0102 - First-Year Japanese
First-Year Japanese
This course is an intensive continuation of JAPN 0101. This course is required for those students wishing to take JAPN 0103 in the Spring. (JAPN 0101)
Winter 2011
JAPN 0103 - First-Year Japanese
First-Year Japanese
This course is a continuation of the fall and winter terms with the introduction of more advanced grammatical structures, vocabulary, and characters. The continuing emphasis of the beginning Japanese course will be upon acquisition of well-balanced language skills based on an understanding of the actual use of the language in the Japanese sociocultural context. (JAPN 0101, JAPN 0102) 3 hrs. lect./3 hrs. drill
Spring 2009
JAPN 0215 - Modern Japanese Fiction
Modern Japanese Fiction
In this class we will examine the development of Japanese literature from the Meiji restoration (1868) through WWII. During this period of rapid and often tumultuous modernization, fiction played a crucial role in the creation of the nation-state and in the formation of the individual's sense of self. We will read works by writers who participated actively in the imagination of modernity and those who resisted it, including Kunikida Doppo, Higuchi Ichiyo, Natsume Soseki, and Mori Ogai. 3 hrs. lect./disc.
Fall 2008
JAPN 0217 - Contemporary Japanese Fiction ▲
Contemporary Japanese Fiction: Haruki Murakami and His Generation
Contemporary Japanese literature is dominated by the work of Haruki Murakami and writers who have been influenced by him. We will examine Murakami's work in detail, including A Wild Sheep Chase, Wind-Up Bird Chronicle, and Kafka on the Shore, and then look at the relationship between Murakami and other contemporary writers (Yoko Ogawa, Ryu Murakami, Natsuo Kirino). Murakami's impact on the visual arts (Takashi Murakami and "Superflat") and the wider culture will also be examined. Students will gain a strong grounding in contemporary Japanese culture through the eyes of one of its most interesting and influential practitioners.
Spring 2011, Spring 2012
JAPN 0401 - Advanced Japanese
Advanced Japanese
In this course we will read, analyze, and discuss advanced Japanese materials from a variety of modern and contemporary sources. (JAPN 0302 or equivalent) 3 hrs. lect./disc.
Fall 2010
JAPN 0435 - Workshop/Literary Translation ▲
Workshop in Literary Translation
Literary translation is a valuable but often neglected skill for advanced language learners. In this workshop we will consider the basic theoretical arguments in translation studies influencing translation styles and then practice translation in a variety of literary genres. Sessions will include discussions of translation strategies and active peer critique of sample translations. Each student will produce a substantial translation as the semester project. Topics covered will include: text selection, translation ethics, practical methodologies, and publishing industry standards. (JAPN 0402 concurrent or prior)
Spring 2011, Spring 2012
JAPN 0475 - Seminar in Japanese Studies
Advanced Reading in Japanese Studies
Students read original materials in a variety of disciplines and develop skills to discuss them in Japanese on a near-native level. Advanced listening practice and literary translation are also emphasized. Students create an annotated research bibliography in preparation for the senior project or thesis. This course is required before taking JAPN 0700, but any student may enroll with approval of the instructor. (Approval only) 3 hrs. disc.
Fall 2008, Fall 2011
JAPN 0500 - Independent Project ▲ ▹
Qualified students may be permitted to undertake a special project in reading and research under the direction of a member of the department. Students should seek an advisor and submit a proposal to the department well in advance of registration for the term in which the work is to be undertaken.
Fall 2008, Spring 2009, Fall 2010, Winter 2011, Spring 2011, Fall 2011, Winter 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2012, Spring 2013
JAPN 0700 - Honors Thesis ▲ ▹
Honors Thesis
Students write a thesis in English with a synopsis in Japanese on literature, film, or culture. The topic for the thesis is chosen in consultation with the instructor. (JAPN 0475)
Fall 2008, Spring 2009, Fall 2010, Spring 2011, Fall 2011, Winter 2012, Spring 2012, Fall 2012, Spring 2013