Three Fields of Interdisciplinary Studies on Cultural Expressions Programs in the three fields of study described below were introduced in 1999, with the aim of promoting interdisciplinary collaboration in both research and educational activities. Although graduate students cannot directly belong to the programs of these fields, doctor course students can participate in research teams formed in the individual fields of study. Working as members of such research teams, students can broaden their perspectives and learn interdisciplinary research methods. Depending on the research theme, some research teams are led by guest Professors (Associate Professorss) invited from Japan or abroad. Interdisciplinary Studies on Arts and Literature The programs in this field of study have been designed to promote a holistic and multi-dimensional approach to interdisciplinary collaboration regarding various aspects of art and literature. Regarding various fields related to linguistic expression, students study interrelations between literary and artistic works and the historical and social backgrounds whence those works were created, and explore the general meaning of literature and art for people. In the 2005 academic year, a new collaboration program commenced on the theme of generation and transformation of text. Research meetings involve mainly faculty members and students of the Graduate School of Letters. Currently, work to clarify the generation of “Fumihougu” by Ueda Akinari through the comparison between the manuscript and the published book is being undertaken with postgraduate students. To further invigorate these activities, students and researchers are invited from outside Osaka University. IIKURA, Yoichi (Ph.D.) Japanese Literature; Study on Japanese Literature in Edo Period Studies on Philological Information Under the programs in this field of study, students study bibliography, which provides a basis for information processing in studies of linguistics and literature. Moreover, through collaboration, students explore ideal methods of information exchange and dissemination in this age of global networks highlighted by the Internet, and build a database of documents/materials used most frequently by researchers. Studies on Cross-cultural Exchange In this field of study, specific study themes are selected concerning creation and translation of literary and artistic works, together with influences of cross-cultural exchange, particularly that involves Japan, regarding language, customs, rituals, ceremonies, performing arts, plays and music. Overseas researchers of outstanding achievement in regard to the specific themes are invited for long periods to promote international and interdisciplinary collaboration together with faculty members and doctor course students of the Graduate School of Letters. From overseas researchers, students can learn perspectives and methodologies that may differ from those in Japan.