Asian Languages & Civilization 160 - Chinese Lit Tradition

A survey of the literary and intellectual traditions of premodern China, the course guides students to appreciate a broad array of textual records and literary genres from antiquity to late Imperial China. We will read monumental works such as the records of Shang dynasty oracle bones, the Analects, Laozi, Zhuangzi, Tang poetry, the folk opera Mulian Rescues his Mother, and The Story of the Stone. The course explores the multiple dimensions of the practice of writing and hence reflects on where wen, or “literature,” stood in the premodern Chinese lifeworld.

All readings are in English. No prior knowledge of Chinese language or culture is assumed. Requirements include short reflection papers, a medium-length term paper, and a take-home final examination. Two class meetings per week.

Spring semester. Professor Ying.