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Prof. Ou Fan Leo Lee 李歐梵
An introductory yet trenchant exploration of select Chinese classic texts that cover the domains of classical literature, history, philosophy, and fine arts.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/4g4m49/classics
What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction
Lecture 1: The True Face of Hero
Lecture 2: The Way of Confucian Tradition
Read more
Syllabus
Introduction
Lecture 1: The True Face of Hero
Lecture 2: The Way of Confucian Tradition
Read more
Lecture 3: Landscape of Immortality
Lecture 4: In Search of the Chinese Soul & Course Assignment
Final Assessment
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Examines Chinese classic texts through different domains, providing a comprehensive understanding of Chinese culture and history
Led by Prof. Ou Fan Leo Lee 李歐梵, a respected scholar in Chinese literature and culture
Introduces learners to the core concepts and ideas of classic Chinese texts, which is essential for understanding Chinese culture and civilization
Provides a strong foundation for further study in Chinese literature, history, philosophy, and fine arts
Requires significant reading and analysis of classic Chinese texts, which may be challenging for learners who are unfamiliar with Chinese literature and culture
Save this course
Save Classics of Chinese Humanities: Guided Readings to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Classical chinese culture through text
Learners say that this well-received course offers a deep dive into classical Chinese culture through readings. Students highly recommend this course despite the difficulty of finding the texts necessary for the course.
Course offers well-picked texts that provide a tremendous exposure to Chinese culture.
"I wondered how four texts could do this, but they are so well picked, that they do."
"Except for the difficulty getting the texts, this has been one of the most satisfying courses I've taken."
"I highly recommend it, but I also recommend that the mentors find the texts and make them easily available to students."
Course provides a challenging experience due to the difficulty of finding required texts.
"I'll grant you the texts are hard to find."
"Except for the difficulty getting the texts, this has been one of the most satisfying courses I've taken."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Classics of Chinese Humanities: Guided Readings with these
activities:
Read "The Analects of Confucius"
Show steps
Gain insights into the fundamental principles of Confucian philosophy by reading this seminal work of Chinese thought.
View
Chinese literature; Comprising the Analects of...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Obtain a copy of the book
-
Set aside dedicated time for reading
-
Take notes and reflect on the teachings presented
Review lecture materials and course slides
Show steps
Prepare for success in this course by refreshing your knowledge of basic Chinese history and philosophy.
Browse courses on
Chinese Philosophy
Show steps
-
Read through lecture slides for each session ahead of time
-
Review any assigned readings or handouts
Practice translating short Chinese texts
Show steps
Improve your proficiency in Chinese translation by practicing regularly with short texts.
Browse courses on
Chinese Language
Show steps
-
Find online resources or textbooks with short Chinese texts
-
Translate the texts and compare your translations to the provided keys
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Read "The Book of Odes"
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of classical Chinese literature and historical context by reading this influential anthology of ancient Chinese poetry.
View
Chinese literature; Comprising the Analects of...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Obtain a copy of the book
-
Allocate specific time slots for reading
-
Take notes as you read to aid comprehension
Write a short essay on the significance of landscape in Chinese art
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of the role and meaning of landscape in Chinese art by writing an essay that explores its cultural and historical significance.
Show steps
-
Review lecture materials on Chinese landscape painting
-
Research and gather information on the topic
-
Organize your thoughts and outline your essay
-
Write and revise your essay
Join a study group or discussion forum
Show steps
Engage with peers to exchange insights and clarify concepts, deepening your understanding of the course material.
Browse courses on
Chinese Philosophy
Show steps
-
Identify or create a study group with classmates
-
Meet regularly to discuss lecture material and assignments
Seek guidance from experts in the field
Show steps
Connect with scholars or professionals in Chinese studies to gain valuable insights and expand your knowledge.
Browse courses on
Chinese Studies
Show steps
-
Identify potential mentors through university resources or professional networks
-
Reach out and request guidance or mentorship
Contribute to open-source translations of Chinese texts
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of Chinese language and literature while contributing to the preservation and dissemination of cultural heritage.
Browse courses on
Chinese Literature
Show steps
-
Identify open-source translation projects related to Chinese texts
-
Review translation guidelines and best practices
-
Contribute translations or revisions to the project
Read "The Analects of Confucius"
Show steps
Gain insights into the fundamental principles of Confucian philosophy by reading this seminal work of Chinese thought.
View
Chinese literature; Comprising the Analects of...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Obtain a copy of the book
- Set aside dedicated time for reading
- Take notes and reflect on the teachings presented
Review lecture materials and course slides
Show steps
Prepare for success in this course by refreshing your knowledge of basic Chinese history and philosophy.
Browse courses on
Chinese Philosophy
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read through lecture slides for each session ahead of time
- Review any assigned readings or handouts
Practice translating short Chinese texts
Show steps
Improve your proficiency in Chinese translation by practicing regularly with short texts.
Browse courses on
Chinese Language
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find online resources or textbooks with short Chinese texts
- Translate the texts and compare your translations to the provided keys
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Read "The Book of Odes"
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of classical Chinese literature and historical context by reading this influential anthology of ancient Chinese poetry.
View
Chinese literature; Comprising the Analects of...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Obtain a copy of the book
- Allocate specific time slots for reading
- Take notes as you read to aid comprehension
Write a short essay on the significance of landscape in Chinese art
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of the role and meaning of landscape in Chinese art by writing an essay that explores its cultural and historical significance.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review lecture materials on Chinese landscape painting
- Research and gather information on the topic
- Organize your thoughts and outline your essay
- Write and revise your essay
Join a study group or discussion forum
Show steps
Engage with peers to exchange insights and clarify concepts, deepening your understanding of the course material.
Browse courses on
Chinese Philosophy
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify or create a study group with classmates
- Meet regularly to discuss lecture material and assignments
Seek guidance from experts in the field
Show steps
Connect with scholars or professionals in Chinese studies to gain valuable insights and expand your knowledge.
Browse courses on
Chinese Studies
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify potential mentors through university resources or professional networks
- Reach out and request guidance or mentorship
Contribute to open-source translations of Chinese texts
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of Chinese language and literature while contributing to the preservation and dissemination of cultural heritage.
Browse courses on
Chinese Literature
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify open-source translation projects related to Chinese texts
- Review translation guidelines and best practices
- Contribute translations or revisions to the project
Career center
Learners who complete Classics of Chinese Humanities: Guided Readings will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Museum curator
Museum curator
Museum Curators research, select, preserve, and display works of art, artifacts, and other cultural objects. Given that they are well-versed in art, history, and cultural relics, individuals who complete Classics of Chinese Humanities: Guided Readings may have a foundation for success in this field. The course helps build the knowledge needed to work with the kinds of objects found in museum collections.
Historian
Historian
Historians research, analyze, interpret, and write about the past. The course Classics of Chinese Humanities: Guided Readings explores important classical Chinese texts, including works from history and philosophy. Taking this course may help provide the foundational knowledge needed to pursue a career as a Historian.
Archivist
Archivist
Archivists acquire, preserve, and provide access to historical records and other archival materials. Individuals who take Classics of Chinese Humanities: Guided Readings may be well-suited for this role because it provides a foundation in history, philosophy, and classical literature. This course will help build the critical thinking and analytical skills needed for success in this role.
Anthropologist
Anthropologist
Anthropologists study the behavior, origin, and development of humans. Since Classics of Chinese Humanities: Guided Readings provides an in-depth look at select Chinese classic texts, individuals who complete this course may be able to develop an understanding of cultural practices, social norms, and belief systems. This foundation could be helpful for those pursuing Anthropology.
Archaeologist
Archaeologist
Archaeologists study past peoples and cultures by excavating and examining material remains such as artifacts, buildings, and monuments. Individuals who complete Classics of Chinese Humanities: Guided Readings may be drawn to this field due to the course’s focus on classical Chinese texts. The course helps build the analytical thinking skills needed to interpret archaeological findings.
Librarian
Librarian
Librarians help people find and access information. Individuals who successfully complete Classics of Chinese Humanities: Guided Readings may be well-prepared for this career because it may help build a knowledge of a variety of subjects. The course also helps build the research and organizational skills needed for success as a Librarian.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists research, write, and report on news and current events. The course Classics of Chinese Humanities: Guided Readings may be a useful tool for future Journalists because it provides a foundation in history and cultural analysis.
Editor
Editor
Editors review, correct, and improve written material. Individuals who complete the course Classics of Chinese Humanities: Guided Readings may have an advantage in this career because of the focus on classical Chinese texts. The course may help build strong editing and proofreading skills needed as an Editor.
Teacher
Teacher
Teachers plan, prepare, and deliver lesson plans and educational materials to aid students in learning. Given the course’s emphasis on select Chinese classic texts from a variety of genres, Classics of Chinese Humanities: Guided Readings may be helpful for individuals interested in a career as a Teacher.
Writer
Writer
Writers produce written content, such as books, articles, stories, and poems. While Classics of Chinese Humanities: Guided Readings does not explicitly teach writing, the focus on classical Chinese literature and philosophy may provide inspiration and knowledge that could be helpful for aspiring Writers.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/4g4m49/classics
Reading list
We've selected 32 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Classics of Chinese Humanities: Guided Readings.
This ancient collection of poems provides insight into the cultural and historical context of Chinese literature. It valuable reference for understanding the development of Chinese poetic forms and themes.
Save
This classic text of Confucian thought provides a foundation for understanding the philosophical and ethical principles covered in the course.
This comprehensive history of Chinese painting and calligraphy provides valuable insights into the techniques and styles discussed in the course.
The Analects of Confucius collection of sayings and teachings attributed to Confucius, and is one of the most important texts in Chinese philosophy.
The Record of the Grand Historian massive historical work that was written by Sima Qian in the 1st century BC. It is one of the most important works of Chinese historiography and valuable source of information about Chinese history.
This comprehensive overview of Chinese philosophy provides a solid foundation for understanding the philosophical ideas discussed in the course.
The Great Learning and the Doctrine of the Mean are two important Confucian texts that provide insight into the ethical and philosophical foundations of Chinese thought.
This classic text provides a comprehensive overview of Chinese history, from its origins to the present day. It is particularly valuable for its detailed treatment of the intellectual and cultural history of China.
The Dream of the Red Chamber massive 18th-century novel that is considered one of the greatest works of Chinese literature. It complex and sprawling story that offers a fascinating glimpse into Chinese society during the Qing dynasty.
The Romance of the Three Kingdoms 14th-century novel that tells the story of the Three Kingdoms period of Chinese history. It classic work of Chinese literature and is still widely read today.
The Zuo Tradition historical work that was written by Zuo Qiuming in the 4th century BC. It is one of the most important works of Chinese historiography and valuable source of information about Chinese history.
Explores the development and significance of calligraphy in Song China.
The Water Margin 14th-century novel that tells the story of a group of outlaws who rebel against the government. It classic work of Chinese literature and is still widely read today.
Save
Journey to the West 16th-century novel that tells the story of a Buddhist monk who travels to India to retrieve sacred scriptures. It classic work of Chinese literature and is still widely read today.
The Book of Changes is an ancient Chinese text that is used for divination and meditation. It complex and challenging text, but it is also one of the most important texts in Chinese culture.
This classic play explores themes of love, loss, and the supernatural.
Save
Explores the unique aesthetic principles and values that shape Chinese art and culture.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history, design, and significance of Chinese gardens.
This military treatise provides a timeless perspective on strategy and tactics, which can be applied to both personal and professional life.
The Art of War classic text on military strategy. It must-read for anyone interested in military history or strategy.
Although not directly related to the course, this book provides a valuable overview of the history and development of Chinese cinema.
The Book of Divination collection of divination techniques that were used in ancient China. It is one of the most important works of Chinese literature and valuable source of information about Chinese culture and history.
The History of the Former Han Dynasty historical text that covers the history of the Former Han dynasty.
The History of the Later Han Dynasty historical text that covers the history of the Later Han dynasty.
The Records of the Grand Historian massive historical text that covers the history of China from the earliest times to the Han dynasty.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history, art, and aesthetics of Chinese opera. It valuable resource for understanding Chinese opera.
The Water Margin historical novel that tells the story of a group of outlaws who rebel against the government.
This classic work provides a comprehensive overview of the history, art, and aesthetics of Chinese painting. It valuable resource for understanding Chinese painting.
This classic work provides a comprehensive overview of the history, art, and aesthetics of Chinese cinema. It valuable resource for understanding Chinese cinema.
A History of Chinese Literature comprehensive overview of the history of Chinese literature from the earliest times to the present day.
The Norton Anthology of Chinese Literature collection of Chinese literature from the earliest times to the present day.
The Columbia Anthology of Traditional Chinese Literature collection of Chinese literature from the earliest times to the Qing dynasty.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/4g4m49/classics
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Institution
The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Instructor
Prof. Ou Fan Leo Lee 李歐梵
Language
English
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Good to know
Examines Chinese classic texts through different domains, providing a comprehensive understanding of Chinese culture and history
Led by Prof. Ou Fan Leo Lee 李歐梵, a respected scholar in Chinese literature and culture
Introduces learners to the core concepts and ideas of classic Chinese texts, which is essential for understanding Chinese culture and civilization
Provides a strong foundation for further study in Chinese literature, history, philosophy, and fine arts
Requires significant reading and analysis of classic Chinese texts, which may be challenging for learners who are unfamiliar with Chinese literature and culture
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