Description
[G/C; Asian Studies minor] This class will present a survey of traditional Chinese literature from early times (c. 1027 B.C.E.) through the beginning of the Qing Dynasty (c. 1644). The course will introduce students to three of the major genres in traditional Chinese literature: poetry, fiction and drama with an emphasis on vernacular fiction and examine the inter-textuality between these genres. We will read translations of a number of “masterworks” of traditional Chinese literature including The Story of the Stone (also known as The Dream of the Red Chamber), Journey to the West, and Outlaws of the Marsh. Through our readings we will explore important features of traditional Chinese society: religious and philosophical beliefs, gender relations and sexuality, family and class structure, and attitudes towards the imperial system and dynastic change. In addition, we will trace the development of major literary practices, conventions and themes through our readings. All works are