Advanced Readings in Chinese Culture

Catalog description

The objective of this advanced level content-based course is to extend and refine students' language and analytical skills while enhancing an appreciation of Chinese culture. The course is for students with native or near-native competency in Mandarin. Each class will include reading, reflection and interpretation, and the exchange of ideas. All reading materials are in Chinese with no glossary and all are written by scholars whose expertise are either in the contemporary and traditional culture of China, or in comparative study of Chinese and Western thoughts. Topics include: 1) the shared beliefs and behaviors of Chinese people; 2) traditional values and new values in the technological and business society; 3) how affection and love are manifested in Chinese culture; 4) what influenced the surge of popularity of Chinese wuxia fiction; (5) what it means to be descendants of Chinese (huayi) living outside China. The class is conducted exclusively in Mandarin Chinese.