MDC 110: Professor Katwala's Classes: Films on Demand

After Columbus came the conquistadors: intrepid men who, for good and ill, have left an indelible mark on world history. This program dramatizes the conquests of Hernán Cortés and Francisco Pizarro in the Viceroyalties of New Spain and Peru, stories characterized by courage and brutality—on both sides. In addition, cultural exchanges between New World and Old and their effects over time are considered. Viewer discretion is advised. Not available in French-speaking Canada. An RTVE Production. (Spanish with English subtitles, 47 minutes)

The history of Japan past and present is the story of the kami, the supernatural, not quite godlike spirits who underlie the Japanese-ness of Japan—who created the Japanese islands at the beginning of time and remain today the ones responsible for health and luck, for success in childbirth and business, for the proper functioning of silicon chips and the uniqueness and unity of the Japanese. This program begins with the creation myth of Japan and explains the origin and scope of the kami concept; explains the arrival of Buddhism and how Buddhism and the kami were assimilated; discusses the role of Chinese culture, style, and writing in Japanese culture; and demonstrates how the Japanese garden epitomizes the Japanese view of the relationship between humankind and nature, space, time, and reality. (53 minutes)

This beautifully filmed collection of 21 three-minute clips brings important sites of antiquity to life with spectacular aerial and ground-level footage, computer-generated reconstructions and fly-throughs, and authentic dramatizations. Each clip marks the site’s geographic location on the globe and then summarizes its history, offering important cultural insights along the way. A wide-open window on the rich legacy bequeathed to humankind by our ancestors.

Filmed in Japan, this program pushes beyond the stereotypes to objectively examine the history of manga, how manga are drawn, and manga’s influence on Japanese life as illustrated by cosplay bars, where people dress up as their favorite characters; manga kissa, 24/7 manga cafés; and Comicket, the twice-annual comics market that draws hundreds of thousands of visitors. The program also introduces viewers to a cross-section of mangaka icons: Vagabond creator Takehiko Inoue; Naoki Urasawa, author of The Pushman and Other Stories; Jiro Taniguchi; Yoshihiro Tatsumi; and Kan Takahama. (Portions in Japanese with English subtitles, 52 minutes)

From their ascension to power in the 13th century to the unconditional surrender of Japan at the end of World War II, the Samurai, with their code of virtue and discipline, created a society that prized one’s honor over one’s own life. In this program, scholars discuss the unique influence that this created and the impact of the Samurai on Japan’s institutions and history, including the role of women in political alliances. Also discussed is Japan’s shift from feudalism to a bureaucratic and cosmopolitan society, symbolically ruled by the emperor and administered by shoguns. (48 minutes)

There is an old Japanese adage that "the best food is that which is least prepared." This program looks at Kyoto-style sushi both as a delicacy and as a symbol of Japanese cultural aesthetics. Footage of Kitamura Norio and Kitakura Hiroyuki—two of Japan’s foremost sushi chefs—illustrates their specialized approaches to oshi sushi and nigiri sushi while capturing the care they put into every step of the sushi-making process, from rice cooking and fish selection to placing the final garnish. In addition, the video provides information on Kyoto history. (19 minutes)

The tea ceremony originated in China but was transformed in Japan into an art of infinite resonance with precise rules and formulations. This program is devoted to the Omote Sen-ke school. It shows the uniquely Japanese way in which its traditions are handed down from generation to generation, and demonstrates that suspension in time by which Japanese paying obeisance to a 400-year-old tradition live in the past and the present simultaneously. (30 minutes)

Guiding viewers through a rich mosaic of history and culture, this program evokes the complexities of Mexico as experienced by its own people. The nation’s indigenous and Spanish roots are both explored through nuanced discussions of iconic cultural elements—for example, viewers learn how the Day of the Dead reflects the national character by merging Catholic and pre-Columbian traditions. Meanwhile, a look at Mexico’s modern urban landscape reveals a unique dynamic of politics, art, and commerce. The perspectives of Mexican citizens from all backgrounds and walks of life infuse the program in a manner that can only be described as a través de sus ojos—through their eyes. A National Geographic Production. (58 minutes)

Filmed on location in India, Japan, and elsewhere, this program provides insights into Hinduism; Mahayana, Hinayana, Tantric, and Zen Buddhism; and Shintoism. Religious leaders including 112-year-old Sri Swami Shivananda, deputy director of the Divine Life Society; Master Thich Nhat Hanh, founder of the Plum Village Zen community; His Holiness the Dalai Lama; and The Venerable Mr. Hatakake, head abbot of the Ise Shinto shrine, elaborate on the principles of their timeless religions. (53 minutes)

More than 80 years of unstinting devotion to his craft have made 98-year-old Yatsujiro Yamaguchi one of the best textile artists in Japan—and perhaps the world. Filmed at the Nishijin Textile Center and other locations, this program showcases the obi, the key component of traditional female garb and the epitome of Japanese elegance and refinement, as woven by Mr. Yatsujiro. Noh costumes are also spotlighted as the video addresses topics such as the fine-fabric weaving process, textile patterns and design, and the cultural significance of the kimono. Footage of the esteemed weaver in his workshop is featured. (15 minutes)