Any topic (writer’s choice)

Each essay must 1) have a specific title related to the question, 2) provide
specific examples and references, 3) be three pages long (total: nine pages).

1. Discuss to what extent and in what ways Neo-Confucian thought affected
womens lives and family culture in traditional Korea. Discuss both positive and
negative aspects in terms of gender equality. Be sure to include Martina
Deuchlers discussion of the change in the marriage system during the transition
from the Kory (Goryeo) to Chosn (Joseon) dynasty and its influence on
womens status in the Chosn society (20 points).

2. It is a common view that shamanism and Buddhism contributed to establishing
power and autonomy in Korean women. Please discuss in what context and to
what extent these religions have played such roles (15 points).

3. (Choose one below: 15 points per question)

a. What do you think of the common notion among western scholars that (East
Asian or) Korean women were victimized and repressed by men in premodern times? Present your view of what would be the ideal approach for
understanding the history of Korean women. Please include the recent view
of gender and history (e.g. Scotts book) and your analysis of the portrayals
of Korean women in Carpenters news article and in Korean Proverbs.

b. Present two or three examples of women who wielded enormous political
power and evaluate their roles in terms of gender and ethics (Baeyong
Lee/Paeyong Yis book).

c. Choose several female characters discussed in class and discuss what aspects
of traditional Korean culture could be unraveled by those particular types of
women.

d. Please write a brief history of Korean women before the 20th century focusing on what you consider to be the most important aspects of Korean womens
lives and culture during that time. Also discuss what problems you may encounter when you begin writing about Korean womens history