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Academic Year 2003/2004


History of Traditional China
HIST 223 SP

Crosslistings:
EAST 223

This course provides a general introduction to the historical development of China from the classical period to the mid-Qing dynasty (~1800). The lectures and discussions are organized both chronologically and thematically. Our primary focus will be the aspects of Chinese history that contributed to the continuous construction of the Chinese cultural identity. These aspects include the family system, the Confucian ideals and practices, the Chinese worldview, the imperial bureaucracy, the development of Buddhism, and the literary, economic, and technological achievements of the past. We will also unravel certain myths about China that persist in the West, including the myths of an unchanging traditional China. At the end of the semester, you will acquire a basic familiarity with the development of Chinese culture, politics and society as well as some understanding of history and historical interpretations.

MAJOR READINGS

CHINA'S IMPERIAL PAST
Fingarette, THE SECULAR AS SACRED
Wright, BUDDHISM IN CHINESE HISTORY
Van Gulik, CELEBRATED CASES OF JUDGE DEE
Gernet, DAILY LIFE IN CHINA
Ebrey, CHINESE SOCIETY AND CIVILIZATION
Spence, EMPEROR OF CHINA

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

Three essays, midterm and final exams.

COURSE FORMAT: Lecture

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UGRD    Credit: 1    Gen Ed Area Dept: SBS HIST    Grading Mode: Graded   

Prerequisites: NONE Links to Web Resources For This Course.

Last Updated on MAR-19-2004


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