Women in Asian societies: Course outline and bibliography

Abstract

Asian studies shares with women's studies a marginal position in relation to mainstream academic discourse that derives ultimately from the common representation of woman and oriental as in the Western literary and intellectual tradition. Comparative cultural studies and gender studies have important things to say to each 'other as well as to the traditional disciplines. It is impossible to understand the workings of any society or culture without a perspective on the ways in which it is structured by the dynamics of gender relations. Similarly, comparative perspectives from other cultures are critical to analyzing the meanings of masculine-feminine distinctions. This course was designed to address both issues. It was created for upper-level undergraduates as part of major programs of study in Asian studies and women's studies.