During this quarter, MacDuffie Seniors enrolled in Honors World Literature have been studying the literature of East Asia, beginning with a review of the three major belief systems that have served as powerful influences shaping the history and culture of the region: Buddhism, Confucianism, and Daoism.  When the class traveled to Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts for a docent-led tour of the East Asian collection May 3, they were able to examine and enjoy first-hand many of the valued artifacts that reflect the region’s artistic legacy.  Prior to the trip, each student became familiar with the Museum’s ‘online’ collection, eventually selecting one item of special interest to research more carefully before the day of the field trip and presenting their findings to the class.  Sam Park ’12 chose to discuss a bronze mirror from the Goryeo Dynasty, while Casey Placek ’12 presented information about a Japanese scroll painting from the early 19^th century.  Other presentations included silk paintings, ritual weapons, and incense burners, to name but a few.

At the conclusion of the tour, students had an opportunity to enjoy other collections at the Museum before heading to Minado’s in Natick for a great lunch featuring Asian cuisine.