CHIN 205-01, Modern Chinese Literature, Spring 2007

Abstract

This course is intended as an introduction to modern Chinese culture, society, and politics through literature. It has multiple aims: 1) to acquaint students with major phases of modern Chinese literature and some masterpieces of representative writers in relation to political and social changes; 2) to provide opportunities to learn about modern Chinese society through readings of chosen works; 3) to train students to read thoughtfully and critically so as to prepare them for future studies in other branches of learning. Part of the focus will be on the impact of Western literature upon the making of modern Chinese literature. Course teaching will be conducted in an interdisciplinary approach of literary, cultural, semiotic, and psychoanalytic studies. All readings are in English. No prior knowledge of Chinese language, literature, and culture is required.