Classical Chinese Literature (1) (中国古典文学 (1))

Singapore University of Social Sciences

Classical Chinese Literature (1) (中国古典文学 (1)) (CHS203)

Synopsis

Ancient Chinese literature has a long and rich history, which includes Pre-Qin literature, Han Dynasty literature; Wei, Jin and Southern and Northern Dynasties literature; Sui, Tang and Five Dynasties literature; Song and Yuan literature; Ming and Qing literature, etc. The literary content involves poetry and prose, novels and dramas, etc of various historical periods. Focusing on the development context, basic characteristics, selected writers and their literary works in various historical periods, this course will introduce the literary styles and characteristics from the pre- Qin period to the Tang Dynasty to deepen students’ understanding of ancient Chinese literature and Chinese cultural traditions.

Level: 2
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: EVERY JAN

Topics

Definition of Chinese Literature and Characteristics of Chinese Literature History 中国文学的定义，中国文学史的特色
Introduction to Pre-Qin Literature 先秦文学概说
Introduction to Hanfu (poetry in Han Dynasty) 汉赋概说
An overview of Han Dynasty historical thought, prose and poetry 汉代史传思想散文、汉乐府诗歌概说
Jian'an Literature 建安文学
Literature of Jin Dynasty 两晋文学
Southern Dynasty Literature 南朝文学
Northern Dynasty Literature 北朝文学
Sui Dynasty Literature 隋代文学
Tang Poetry 唐诗
Tang Novels and “bianwen” 唐传奇、变文
Classical Prose Movement in Tang Dynasty 唐古文运动

Learning Outcome

Discuss the history of classical Chinese literature
Describe the literary trend of each Chinese era
Examine relevant literary concepts, trends of thought and literary phenomena
Illustrate the characteristics of Chinese literature in different periods
Analyse the literary achievements of important writers
Apply knowledge learnt to improve the ability to read and comprehend classic Chinese texts