Ever wonder why samurai swords occupy such a revered place in the art of weaponry? The curved blades have become so popular in media that many English speakers know their name - katana. The physics behind a katana are complex and involve a combination of metallurgy, materials science, and manufacturing techniques. Swords of other shapes and lengths complemented the use of the katana in battle and cultural significance.

Learn more about the history, development, and use of these blades on April 20, 2023. Light hors d’oeuvres and beverages will be provided.

Matthew Roberts is the Social Studies Department Chair at Pine-Richland High School in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, where he teaches World History, Asian Studies and AP Psychology. He is a regular guest presenter for NCTA seminars including The Physics of the Samurai Sword and The Neuroscience of Buddhism. Through NCTA, he has traveled to China and Japan and most recently co-led the 2019 Study tour, China: The Space Between Us. His paper, "Investigating the COVID-19 Pandemic: An East Asian Perspective" appeared in Asia Shorts: Teaching About Asia in a Time of Pandemic from the Association for Asian Studies. Mr. Roberts is currently pursuing his EdD at the University of Pittsburgh where he is researching the cognitive learning model in traditional apprenticeships. His interests include curriculum development, educational travel, health and wellness, and traditional woodworking.

Register for the final lecture "Borders vs Barriers: The World of JE Translation" here.