Food, Art, & Thought in Chinese Culture

Catalog description

This course introduces Chinese culture and society through the lens of food, art, and thought. China is one of the oldest civilizations in the world, and ancient Chinese culture is the root of many cultural practices and traditions in East Asia. The course surveys Chinese civilization from the beginning to the modern time, highlighting fundamental ideas and practices that shape the Chinese culture and way of life. It addresses a broad range of topics including but not limited to systems of thought (Confucianism, Daoism, Buddhism), Chinese art forms (poetry, ink painting, calligraphy, and martial arts), tea, and Chinese cuisine. Students will also explore how Chinese thought, art, and cultural practices connect China with the world as cultural encounters and exchanges take place.