This course is an introduction to some of the major themes in Buddhist thought and practice viewed through literature and visual art.  Beginning with the poetic, dramatic, and visual representations of the life of Śākyamuni Buddha, the first half of the course moves on to consider the development of early Buddhism through the architecture and art of the Indian subcontinent.  The second half of the course examines important themes and developments in the Buddhist literary and visual cultures of East Asia (focusing on China and Japan but also including Tibet and Southeast Asia).  Readings will consist of primary texts in translation supplemented by secondary literature on the study of Buddhism.  The class will meet at the Freer Gallery on two different occasions during the semester to view Buddhist art in the South Asian and East Asian Collections.