Chinese 397F - ST-Chinese SciFi/Translation

In this course, we will take a philosophical and comparative approach to the exciting world of Chinese Science Fiction. Our goal will be to explore questions about human nature and purpose, utopianism, determinism and free will, and many other questions about the nature of the universe and the human condition in it. We will meet strange alien societies, and some fascinating scientific ideas, as we consider themes such as deep time and history, galactic war, and the benefits and dangers of technology. Readings will include Liu Cixin's Three Body trilogy, and shorter works by authors such as Han Song, Chen Qiufan and Xia Jia. The course will be conducted in English and all readings will be in English. This course counts as credit toward the Chinese Major.