CORE 002 SC - The Arts and Literature of Zen Buddhism

From Beat poets to Bart Simpson, Zen Buddhism has been influential in contemporary cultures worldwide, although few “Zen-inspired” American authors or artists have studied the history of Zen or examined how the ideas and practices of Zen have been represented in the visual arts, performing arts, or literatures of East Asia. This course will survey the arts and literatures of Zen as they developed over the last 1500 years, with particular attention to Chan in China and Zen in Japan. By considering the historical development of Zen, recent American versions can be more fully evaluated and understood. Students will read and interpret texts (in translation) by Chan and Zen masters, examine paintings and calligraphy done by Chan and Zen monks, and experience architecture and gardens through field trips to a local Buddhist temple and the Huntington Botanic Gardens.

Course Credit: 1.0

Please refer to the course schedule on the Scripps Portal for current course offerings and details.