This course explores the long tradition of writing about the fantastic, strange, and supernatural in Chinese literature, from the earliest records to medieval tales, late imperial opera, and contemporary science fiction. In addition to close reading and interpretation, we will situate these texts in their social and cultural contexts, examining critical moments of transformation in Chinese history and the enduring questions they raise in terms of philosophy, religion, gender, ethnicity, and politics. Required readings are available in English translation, including Tale of Genji, Tale of Middle-Councillor Hamamatsu (medieval romance), Haku Rakuten (No Play), Battles of Coxinga (Kabuki play), Three-Cornered World (by Soseki), and Wild Goose (by Ogai).
This course explores the long tradition of writing about the fantastic, strange, and supernatural in Chinese literature, from the earliest records to medieval tales, late imperial opera, and contemporary science fiction. In addition to close reading and interpretation, we will situate these texts in their social and cultural contexts, examining critical moments of transformation in Chinese history and the enduring questions they raise in terms of philosophy, religion, gender, ethnicity, and politics. Required readings are available in English translation, including Tale of Genji, Tale of Middle-Councillor Hamamatsu (medieval romance), Haku Rakuten (No Play), Battles of Coxinga (Kabuki play), Three-Cornered World (by Soseki), and Wild Goose (by Ogai).
