I first looked at the table of contents for Professor Miyake's session and was extremely intimidated by the 17 or so readings required--17! But I was pleasantly surprised by the content. I enjoyed the brief reading on women's roles in Japanese literature, and going over the Renga poetry [this says a lot because I am SO not into poetry]. But I think the best reading for me would be: Sei Shonagon, excerpts from Pillow Book, "Hateful Things". As I was reading this excerpt, I find myself agreeing with the writer's rationale and chuckling at the frustration that is strongly conveyed to readers.

I thought that the reading was going to be all about nature and abstract thinking; but many of the readings were based on court life, battles, and The Law.

I also liked the Illustrated Tale of Genji because it was an extremely fast and entertaining read, The Death of Kiso {because it's bloody, involves honor, and kind of reminds me briefly of the movie 300}, and The Confessions of Lady Nijo--although I would have liked to know what happened to the ladies for striking their ruler. That was a surprise. Overall, good readings!