Not available at this time

This course focuses on traditional Chinese novels written in the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911). We will engage in close readings of masterworks of vernacular novels, ranging in genre from romance narratives to martial adventures, while paying attention to the origins and development of Chinese fiction.

This course will be centered on Neo-Daoism, also called Wei-Jin Xuanxue (The Study of Mysteries in the Wei-Jin, Northern and Southern Dynasties period), using close readings of scholars such as He Yan, Wang Bi, and Guo Xiang. From this point we will make comparisons back to pre-Qin thought, and forward to the development of Buddhism.

Confucianism is a nuanced and complex idea of a comprehensive culture that stems from Heaven and acts on earth through nature and human society. In its many forms, it is also a central ethos of all the civilizations of East Asia. In this course we will read from key books of the Confucian tradition, from its origins with Confucius (551-479 BC) to the Tang dynasty (618-907). Primary readings will be in classical Chinese, with secondary materials in English.

Not available at this time

Selected authentic modern Chinese works of various genres, including essays, short stories, editorials, prose, etc. This advanced-level Chinese language course focuses on continued development of critical reading and comprehension skills.

Not available at this time

The Commonwealth Honors College thesis or project is intended to provide students with the opportunity to work closely with faculty members to define and carry out in-depth research or creative endeavors. It provides excellent preparation for students who intend to continue their education through graduate study or begin their professional careers. The student works closely with their 499Y Honors Research sponsor to pursue research on a topic or question of special interest to them in preparation for writing a 499T Honors Thesis or completing a 499P Honors Project.

Honors Thesis expectations are high. The intended end-product is a traditional research manuscript with accompanying artifact(s), all theses: - are 6 credits or more of sustained research on a single topic, typically conducted over two semesters. - begin with creative inquiry and systematic research. - include documentation of substantive scholarly endeavor. - culminate in an oral defense or other form of public presentation.

Honors Project expectations are high. The intended end-product is a traditional project manuscript with accompanying artifact(s), all projects: - are 6 credits or more of sustained research on a single topic, typically conducted over two semesters. - begin with creative inquiry and systematic research. - include documentation of substantive scholarly endeavor. - culminate in an oral defense or other form of public presentation.