Time Schedule:
Li Yang
ASIAN 201
Seattle Campus
Introduction to ancient and classical Chinese literature in its cultural context. Texts in English translation.
Class description
This course is interdisciplinary oriented, aiming to provide a broad framework of early Chinese civilization to students with little or no background in Chinese culture. The time period covered is from Shang to Tang (13 century B.C. - 10 century A.D.), with a focus on the Pre-Qin and Han times (before 220 A.D.). We will draw from history, literature and archaeology to cover a range of topics. Topics include, but are not limited to: early Chinese writing, mythology, early intellectual “schools,” early historiography, recent archaeological discoveries of tombs, food, wine, attire and China’s early contact and interactions with other cultures.
Visual aids will be used, primarily images of relevant archaeological discoveries. Segments from films will be screened in class periodically, followed up by analysis and class discussion. The class will be a mixture of lecture and discussion. Students are expected to lead discussions on required readings from both translated primary and secondary sources, to think critically about the questions raised from the readings, and to put topics under discussion in a bigger context and make connection to our modern society.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Recommended preparation
No prerequisites, all readings are in English. Just come to the class with a sense of curiosity.
Class assignments and grading
Grades will be assigned based on a combination of class presentation and two take-home exams.
Asian 201 is not a course with W credit in Winter 2011. Arrangements for W course credit will be made, if needed.
