Early modern China and Japan had much in common; they shared not only a geographical space in East Asia but also a history of cultural interaction, lively trade and an enduring interest in Confucianism as a way of structuring family and social relationships. This course explores the economic and social changes that made these two East Asian societies "early modern" with a focus on how people lived: as scholars, warriors, bureaucrats, writers, farmers, wives, sex workers, priests, and more. Readings will include a selection of translated texts from Chinese and Japanese literature as well as historical documents and scholarly essays. Themes include the philosophy and practice of government, the varied roles played by women in society, the importance of books for learning and for pleasure, economic growth and change, and the management of foreign relations including foreign emissaries, Christian missionaries, traders, and pirates. This course will appeal to students in Chinese, Japanese, Asian Studies and Global Studies as well as History students interested in Asian History.