Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

Through an investigation into the key intellectual issues of a multi-disciplinary nature in post-Mao China, this unit will introduce students to a range of literary writings by a young generation of contemporary Chinese writers. Through various research projects students will explore a range of different representations of Chinese culture and society.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit students will be expected to have acquired

1. a general knowledge of the social, political and cultural development that has characterised post-Mao China, Chinese society, its people and its culture (through examination of the historical contexts of a number of literary texts published in China after the 1980s)
2. an in-depth knowledge of changes that post-Mao reform has brought to intellectual trends in general and to literature in particular (through critical analysis of a range of literary works by a younger and unorthodox generation of Chinese writers who challenge traditional Chinese literary norms through their exploration of fundamental issues of humanism).
3. the ability to write and speak effectively in standard modern Chinese on a range of intellectual and literary issues, and basic analytical and critical skills required for academic research in Chinese Studies.

Assessment

Written work: 75%
Oral presentation: 15%
Class participation/performance: 10%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Hui Xu

Contact hours

3 hours (3 x 1 hour seminars) per week

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Chinese translation
Chinese language

Prerequisites

Chinese 11 or by permission

Prohibitions

CHI1120, CHI1912, CHI2120, CHI2912, CHI3912, CHI4120, CHI4129, CHI4912, CHI5120, CHI5912