Course Description

Depart May 18, 2026 - Return June 11, 2026

This course promotes competence and appreciation of graphic narratives and moving images by examining selected superheroes from Japanese manga and anime and from American comics and movies. Students will explore the historical, socio-political, cultural, racial, and gender issues of these superheroes, following their path from creation to modern day. The course combines lectures with reading and writing assignments, as well as active participation in viewing the examples of manga, anime, comics, and movies in the class. By examining media from Japan and the United States, we will explore the depth of superheroes as they evolve in different social, political, and cultural climates. This course will challenge students to look deeply into Japanese culture and their own culture. We will examine the underlying themes from these media and make connections between the themes and broader societal issues. Questions we will engage in include: How did superheroes originate in the United States and what were their historical, cultural, and social significance? What was the path for manga and anime Japanese superheroes, and what was their impact on American popular culture? What are common themes in anime and manga, and how do they differ from American-style superhero comics and movies? What representations of diversity appear or do not appear, and what are the implications on readers? How do art, storytelling, and superheroes impact society and/or broader social issues?

Past Creative Assignments

Students had the option of writing a reflection paper on their study abroad experience or a creative project that reflects their experience. Their choice of assignment must include aspects of their Japan experience, course content, reflections of their cultural identity, and a social justice focus. See some of the creative projects below and others by clicking the "More" button.

Past Events

Come learn about the Tokyo 2026 Summer Program!

Date: Monday, Dec 1, 2025

Time: 7 PM to 8 PM

Location: Zoom - go.uic.edu/MarkZoom (You will need to choose SSO, type uic.zoom.us, and log on using your UIC credentials to join.)

GLAS 290 Tokyo Study Abroad Info Session

Thursday, February 26, 2026

3:30 P.M. - 5:00 P.M.

723 W Maxwell (UIC Asian American Resource and Cultural Center)

Open to new interested students or students who have already applied. New details and Tokyo tips will be shared. Please come with questions. 

GLAS 290 Tokyo Study Abroad - Tips on Navigating Tokyo and Re-Entry Back to the U.S.

Thursday, March 12, 2026 

7:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.

On Zoom - (go.uic.edu/MarkZoom)

(You may need to log on using your UIC credentials on uic.zoom.us)

Committed students of the Tokyo summer program are invited to hear on Zoom from Clare Wongwai, UIC Graduate Student in Psychology, tips on navigating Tokyo culture, advice on best practices to keep one’s mental health balanced before and during the Tokyo experience, and re-entry advice on how to manage the return to the U.S.

GLAS 290 Tokyo Study Abroad Meet & Greet and Alumni Reunion

Thursday, April 23, 2026

3:30 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.

723 W Maxwell (UIC Asian American Resource and Cultural Center)

Snacks will be provided.

Students, faculty, and staff who will be participating in the GLAS 290 Tokyo Study Abroad experience will gather to meet each other. Alumni of past Tokyo programs are invited to join and give new participants suggestions and advice. Final details will be shared, and students will meet their roommates and will have opportunities to ask final questions. 

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