Interested in Japanese history, culture, tradition? From Bushido to Samurai, The Way of the Warrior and The Way of Samurai are philosophies developed during Japan's military era; it declined when Japan adopted a pacifist stance and written constitution. We will try to understand the essence of Zen Buddhism by looking into the soul of the warrior; define punishment by shame, not by war: recognize the Confucian Code of Honour imposed on the warrior in Japanese tradition. The second part of the study group relates to the influence of Japanese art and business on the Western World. How did the new wave from Japan contribute to modernize Western art in France and England from 1862 on? What did the Impressionism and Post-Impressionism artists discover? Japanism! What is the link between Impressionism and Japanism? This sociological and historical approach will bring us to talk about pictorial modern art.

Participants will be able to draw on a large choice of topics between Samurai Culture and Western Modern Art for 20 min. + presentations followed by group discussion. Presentations may be made in English or French.

Moderator: Mimi Caouette

To register by mail or in person: Pay for your membership ($100) and any lectures ($7 each) with a single cheque payable to McGill University. Cash is not accepted. To register online: You have the option to use Internet banking. You can set up McGill University as a payee with your bank. You may also register for a lecture at the door (the fee is $10) on the day of the lecture. We recommend that you contact the office beforehand to check if space is available. Lectures are non-refundable. Full details: http://www.mcgill.ca/conted/milr