The goal of this course is to help student understand and explore the dynamics of Chinese society in the late imperial period (esp. the Ming and Qing dynasties) through a close examination of how beliefs and practices—the stuff of culture—were created and transmitted. Among the topics to be discussed are the civil service examination system, foot-binding, garden culture, vernacular literature, popular religion, village life, etc. Students are expected to participate actively in class discussion and to carry out a major research assignment using (translated) primary sources. This course encourages students to think critically about the nature of “Chinese culture” and invites them to locate the Chinese historical experiences in a wider context.
Offered: 05W | 06W | 07W | 08W | 09W | 11W | 12W | 13W | 14W | 17W | 19W
