Modern China inherited a tradition of over 3000 years of literary history that it both built upon and reacted against. This course will examine the development and themes of Chinese literature and film as these two separate but related modes of expression developed during the twentieth century (and early twenty-first) in mainland China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. Beginning with the end of the imperial period and continuing on to the present day, we will explore how Chinese authors and film makers have and are dealing with such issues as their own cultural inheritance, the encounter with Western ideas of modernity, social upheaval, and the role of China and Chinese culture on the global stage. Format: lecture/discussion. Requirements: one short paper (5-7 pages), one longer paper (10-12 pages), a take-home midterm, and a final exam. Participation in class discussions is expected. All readings are in English translation and all films are subtitled in English. No prerequisites. No maximum enrollment (expected: 15). Open to all.

Hour: NUGENT