Chinese Language, Arts, and Culture

Catalog description

Chinese Language, Arts, and Culture immerses students in Chinese culture through arts and language, with a three-week field trip to three of China’s Four Great Ancient Capitals: Xi’an, Luoyang, and Beijing. Guided by the proverb, “Read ten thousand books and travel ten thousand miles,” students explore Chinese culture by visiting museums, archaeological sites, and historical landmarks. A key visit includes the Youli Castle Site in Henan, where King Wen of Zhou created the I Ching (Book of Changes), a foundational Chinese classic. On-site visits and evening discussions focus on royal court culture (palaces, treasures, and the feudal system) and vernacular culture (Buddhism, Taoism, food, and clothing). The course follows a structure of previewing materials, visiting historical sites, and evening discussions. Top Chinese experts also give lectures on significant cultural topics, such as the evolution of dragon imagery.