What does it mean in the modern world of global migration and exchange to claim an ethnic identity for oneself or the culture that one feels embedded in? This course focuses on the phenomenon of transcultural modernity—the elusive condition that is transcultural in two senses: globally intercultural and in an ever-evolving state of transformation. Within this framework, the course will survey the intertangled journey of Koreans and Diaspora Koreans in literary and on-screen representations. Among the subjects to be explored include: modernization in the context of the Korean War and Cold-War decolonization; cultural migration within and across borders; evolving gender identities in the clash of traditions; bonds of intimacy in a world of global capitalism. Literary works will include: Younghill Kang’s East Goes West (excerpts); the short stories “Shower” (Hwang Sun-Won) and “Mother’s Hitching Post” (Park Wanseo); Susan Choi’s The Foreign Student; Park Min-gyu’s Pavane for a Dead Princess, Han Kang’s The Vegetarian, and Michelle Zauner’s Crying in H Mart. Films and Dramas will include: Madame Freedom, Flower in Hell, Whale Hunting, Past Lives, and selected episodes of Squid Game and Beef.

All works will be in English or in translation. No knowledge of Korean is required.

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 25

Crosslisted Courses:

Prerequisites: None.

Distribution Requirements: LL - Language and Literature; ARS - Visual Arts, Music, Theater, Film and Video

Typical Periods Offered: Every other year

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Spring

Notes: