Topics in Buddhism (319-0-22)

Topic

Chan/Zen Buddhism

Instructors

Kevin Delaney Buckelew

Meeting Info

Kresge Centennial Hall 2-325: Mon, Wed 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

The Chinese Chan (Japanese Zen) Buddhist tradition is one of the most famous branches of Buddhism in the world, but also one of the most widely misunderstood. This course explores the history, literature, philosophy, visual culture, and monastic practices of Chan/Zen Buddhism in East Asia. We pay special attention to the ways Chan/Zen innovated within the Buddhist tradition to establish a uniquely East Asian school of Buddhism. Along the way we consider the changing place of meditation in Chan/Zen practice, closely read Chan/Zen sermons and kōans, analyze the role of women and gender in Chan and Zen, and conclude by considering the modern reception of Zen in the West.

Learning Objectives

- Understand the history of Chan/Zen Buddhism from its origins in China to its spread across East Asia and transmission to the US.
- Become familiar with the main genres of Chan/Zen literature through close reading of primary sources in English translation as well as secondary scholarship.
- Engage with key themes in the study of religion, including how religious authority operates, how religious traditions construct and remember their own histories, and how religious ideals relate to everyday practice.
- Develop skill in critically and constructively analyzing complex subjects through reading, writing, discussing, undertaking research, and formulating original arguments.

Teaching Method

Class Materials (Required)

Class materials will be uploaded to Canvas as PDFs

Class Attributes

Ethical and Evaluative Thinking Foundational Disci
Literature and Arts Foundational Discipline
Literature & Fine Arts Distro Area
Ethics & Values Distro Area