Senior Research Colloquium
On May 4, the Japanese Studies program held our third annual Senior Research Colloquium, at which four graduating seniors majoring in Japanese studies — Randy Berry, Stella Rockwell, Michael Foster, and Cheyenne Morrison presented their final research projects. All four in conducted their research under the direction of Dr. Tomoyuki Sasaki, associate professor of Japanese Studies, as part of his Spring 2022 capstone seminar, “Cold-War Cultures.” The curriculum explores the cultural, political, and economic impact of the Cold War on Japan with emphasis on occupation, growth, and the imperial past. The presentations included:
Berry, “Okinawa: An Extension of Japanese Imperialism into the Cold War Era”
Brockwell, “Akira: Nuclear and Capitalistic Destruction"
Foster, “Social Discontent in Imamura's Pigs and Battleships”
Morrison, “Fading Lights: Cold War Symbolism in Grave of the Fireflies”
The presentations were followed by a lively question-and-answer. The colloquium was combined with the Japanese Studies program’s year-end awards ceremony (see related article). Over thirty students attended and enjoyed refreshments, including a fabulous cake from Williams O’Delicious, in Hampton.
