China expanded from scattered Neolithic settlements to become one of the world's most complex and sophisticated civilizations. During this process, it experienced dramatic transformation as well as remarkable institutional and cultural continuities. This course will examine Chinese history from prehistoric times to the "early modern" seventeenth century. It will address topics such as the creation and transformation of dynastic authority, the reinterpretation of Confucian thought, the transmission of Buddhism, the conquest of China proper by "barbarian" peoples, the composition of elites, and change in daily life, popular culture and China's place in the East Asian and world systems. Format: lecture/discussion. Evaluation will be based on class participation, two short papers, a midterm, and a self-scheduled final exam. No prerequisites. No enrollment limit (expected 20). Open to all. Groups C and D

Hour: A. REINHARDT