Choose two of the following themes and write an essay in which you address them in the context of two
works of fiction or films we have treated this semester. This should be a synthetic essay that links
together the two works through a consideration of the themes and makes an argument that these
themes are crucial to understanding the politics of culture in contemporary Japan. In other words, you
need to clearly articulate why it is that the two themes you choose are keywords for understanding the
works we have examined during the first half of the semester. You may reference other works over
the course of the essay but try to focus on an analysis of the two that you have chosen. Always be
specific: cite and analyze specific scenes; give quotations and explain their relevance for your
argument. Avoid being vague or overly general: rather than giving a plot synopsis, refer to specific
moments in the novels and films that relate to your argument.
Themes
Agency Art Childhood City Commerce
Community Country Death Environment Future
Gender Innocence Nostalgia Nourishment Ordinary
