CHJA 120 - Introduction to Chinese and Japanese Literature

Semester Offered: Spring
1 unit(s)

China and Japan have rich cultures that have deeply influenced one another. This course introduces some of the major works of Chinese and Japanese literature, including philosophical works, novels and films. Thematically, the course is organized around the way that major intellectual trends (including Confucianism, Daoism and Buddhism) resonate in text from both cultures. Among the readings are novels dealing with love and sexuality (including China’s Dream of the Red Chamber and Japan’s The Tale of Genji), works about martial virtues (such as the Chinese novel Three Kingdoms and the Japanese play Chushingura), as well as selected poetry, short stories and films. All readings and discussions are in English. Bryan Van Norden.

Two 75-minute periods.

Course Format: CLS