HIST 585: Beer, Sake, and Tea

Beer, Tea, and Sake

Sake and tea are synonymous with Japan today, but the history of beverages from water to whiskey illuminates key developments in Japanese civilization. This course makes a thematic survey of Japanese beverages introducing the place of drinks in global history before examining their distinct context in Japan. Topics include the ritual consumption of beverages as in the tea ceremony; the place of alcohol in Japanese culture; locales for consuming beverages such as bars, teahouses and coffee shops; and the Westernization of taste preferences as characterized by the introduction of beer and wine. By taking this course, students gain insight into ways that beverages contribute to Japanese culture and help shape personal and national identity. Prerequisite: Successful completion of an East Asian history or culture course number below 500 or permission of the instructor.