This course introduces Chinese civilization within an historical perspective, from prehistory to the beginning of the 20th century. Using written records, archaeological relics and works of art to cover over three thousand years and a vast geographical area, we will focus on several key topics including important issues and historical moments in time. These include, but are not limited to: technology (e.g., paper, printing), governance (so-called Confucians and the Classics), religion (Buddhism, Daoism, Islam, etc.), systems of thought, food, language, daily life, social forms, identity, gender, the state, art, literature, architecture, and historiography. Some of the questions we will ask include: Where can we find connections or discontinuities? How can – and cannot – textual and archaeological sources help us understand people and their daily lives? How have Chinese thinkers, leaders, religious professionals, and ordinary people understood the past and used it to address pressing concerns even today? Part of your task as a student is to pay attention to recurring themes and topics presented, draw comparisons, and ask your own questions. Weekly hours: 3 Lecture hoursPrerequisite(s): 3 credit units HIST at the 100 level; or 30 credit units of University level courses.
This course introduces Chinese civilization within an historical perspective, from prehistory to the beginning of the 20th century. Using written records, archaeological relics and works of art to cover over three thousand years and a vast geographical area, we will focus on several key topics including important issues and historical moments in time. These include, but are not limited to: technology (e.g., paper, printing), governance (so-called Confucians and the Classics), religion (Buddhism, Daoism, Islam, etc.), systems of thought, food, language, daily life, social forms, identity, gender, the state, art, literature, architecture, and historiography. Some of the questions we will ask include: Where can we find connections or discontinuities? How can – and cannot – textual and archaeological sources help us understand people and their daily lives? How have Chinese thinkers, leaders, religious professionals, and ordinary people understood the past and used it to address pressing concerns even today? Part of your task as a student is to pay attention to recurring themes and topics presented, draw comparisons, and ask your own questions. Weekly hours: 3 Lecture hoursPrerequisite(s): 3 credit units HIST at the 100 level; or 30 credit units of University level courses.
