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Peter K. Bol
and
William C. Kirby
This course, the first in a comprehensive series on China, introduces you to the history, geography, and culture of the country.
Read more
This course, the first in a comprehensive series on China, introduces you to the history, geography, and culture of the country.
Read more
This course, the first in a comprehensive series on China, introduces you to the history, geography, and culture of the country.
Time, space, and identity — enduring issues in Chinese history — are explored. You’ll study China’s early dynasties to understand how physical geography impacted its inhabitants and how the many ethnicities within the country affected Chinese identity. You’ll learn about China’s origins as told in ancient texts and through modern archeology. You’ll explore the first dynasties during the Chinese bronze age, the many facets of Confucianism and his Analects, and the competing schools of thought that followed.
New political and moral ideas appear in Chinese culture in this period — ideas that make up the country’s intellectual foundations and still resonate today. Join us to learn about China’s origins and how early concepts in Chinese culture still matter in the 21st century.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/hpblfw/china
What's inside
Learning objectives
- China’s history from political, geographic, and cultural perspectives.
- The beginning of chinese history in archaeology and mythology.
- The blossoming of chinese thought, from confucius to the legalists.
- Historical methods for explaining how complex civilizations are formed.
- How to analyze texts and artifacts.
- Methods for the analysis of philosophical and political arguments.
- A critical appreciation of china’s literary, philosophical, political, and cultural resources.
- China’s history from political, geographic, and cultural perspectives.
- The beginning of chinese history in archaeology and mythology.
- The blossoming of chinese thought, from confucius to the legalists.
- Historical methods for explaining how complex civilizations are formed.
- How to analyze texts and artifacts.
- Methods for the analysis of philosophical and political arguments.
- A critical appreciation of china’s literary, philosophical, political, and cultural resources.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Introduces the history, geography, and culture of China
Explores time, space, and identity, which are enduring issues in Chinese history
Covers the early dynasties to emphasize the impact of physical geography and ethnicity on Chinese identity
Examines China's origins through ancient texts and modern archaeology
Provides an overview of the first dynasties during the Chinese bronze age
Covers the many facets of Confucianism and his Analects
Explores the competing schools of thought that followed Confucianism
Requires strong interest and/or academic background in Chinese history
Save this course
Save China’s Political and Intellectual Foundations: From Sage Kings to Confucius to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Well-received chinese history course
Learners say China’s Political and Intellectual Foundations is an excellent overview of Chinese history from ancient times through the teachings of Confucius. Students mention that the course is well crafted and engaging, but some do note that the course size may be overwhelming
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 China’s Political and Intellectual Foundations: From Sage Kings to Confucius with these
activities:
Ancient History Review
Show steps
Strengthen your understanding of ancient history to provide a solid foundation for the course
Browse courses on
History
Show steps
-
Review your notes or textbooks from previous history courses
-
Take practice quizzes or tests to assess your knowledge
Chinese Culture Background
Show steps
Build a stronger foundation in Chinese culture to enhance your understanding of the course material
Browse courses on
Chinese
Show steps
-
Read books or articles about Chinese history, culture, and society
-
Watch documentaries or films about China
China Course Materials Compilation
Show steps
Enhance your organization and retention by compiling relevant materials for review, assignments, and exams and connect seemingly disparate information
Show steps
-
Gather all course materials, including notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams
-
Organize the materials into a logical structure
-
Review the materials regularly to reinforce your understanding
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
The History of China
Show steps
Introduce yourself to the History of China and relevant historical methodologies and theories for the study of China
View
The Cambridge History of China
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Obtain a copy of The Cambridge History of China by Denis Twitchett and John K. Fairbank
-
Read the book, making notes of anything you do not understand
-
Attend the first few lectures of the course and ask your professor to clarify any topics you did not understand from the book
The Analects
Show steps
Review the foundational philosophies and ideas of Confucius, one of the most influential ancient Chinese intellectuals and philosophers
View
The Analects
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Obtain a copy of The Analects of Confucius
-
Read the book, making notes of anything you find interesting or that you do not understand
-
Attend the lectures on Confucianism and ask your professor to clarify any topics you did not understand from the book
Timeline of Chinese History
Show steps
Review chronological events in Chinese History and improve your comprehension of the time frame
Show steps
-
Create a timeline of Chinese history, including major events, dynasties, and important figures
-
Test yourself on the timeline by trying to recall the dates and events of key events
China and the World
Show steps
Strengthen your understanding of China's interactions with the world throughout history and its historical place in the world
Show steps
-
Research China's interactions with other countries and cultures throughout history
-
Create a presentation or paper that discusses your findings
Chinese Cultural Center
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of Chinese culture and gain practical experience to connect theory to practice
Browse courses on
Chinese Culture
Show steps
-
Volunteer at a Chinese cultural center or organization
-
Participate in cultural events and activities
-
Interact with native speakers and engage in cultural exchanges
Chinese Language Project
Show steps
Develop a deeper understanding and practical proficiency in the Chinese language and gain hands-on experience for a well-rounded learning
Browse courses on
Chinese
Show steps
-
Set a goal for your language learning, such as achieving a certain level of fluency or proficiency
-
Create a study plan that includes regular practice, immersion, and feedback
-
Find a language partner or tutor to practice speaking and listening
-
Use language learning apps, websites, or textbooks to supplement your studies
-
Immerse yourself in Chinese culture through movies, TV shows, music, or literature
Ancient History Review
Show steps
Strengthen your understanding of ancient history to provide a solid foundation for the course
Browse courses on
History
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review your notes or textbooks from previous history courses
- Take practice quizzes or tests to assess your knowledge
Chinese Culture Background
Show steps
Build a stronger foundation in Chinese culture to enhance your understanding of the course material
Browse courses on
Chinese
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read books or articles about Chinese history, culture, and society
- Watch documentaries or films about China
China Course Materials Compilation
Show steps
Enhance your organization and retention by compiling relevant materials for review, assignments, and exams and connect seemingly disparate information
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather all course materials, including notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams
- Organize the materials into a logical structure
- Review the materials regularly to reinforce your understanding
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
The History of China
Show steps
Introduce yourself to the History of China and relevant historical methodologies and theories for the study of China
View
The Cambridge History of China
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Obtain a copy of The Cambridge History of China by Denis Twitchett and John K. Fairbank
- Read the book, making notes of anything you do not understand
- Attend the first few lectures of the course and ask your professor to clarify any topics you did not understand from the book
The Analects
Show steps
Review the foundational philosophies and ideas of Confucius, one of the most influential ancient Chinese intellectuals and philosophers
View
The Analects
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Obtain a copy of The Analects of Confucius
- Read the book, making notes of anything you find interesting or that you do not understand
- Attend the lectures on Confucianism and ask your professor to clarify any topics you did not understand from the book
Timeline of Chinese History
Show steps
Review chronological events in Chinese History and improve your comprehension of the time frame
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Create a timeline of Chinese history, including major events, dynasties, and important figures
- Test yourself on the timeline by trying to recall the dates and events of key events
China and the World
Show steps
Strengthen your understanding of China's interactions with the world throughout history and its historical place in the world
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research China's interactions with other countries and cultures throughout history
- Create a presentation or paper that discusses your findings
Chinese Cultural Center
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of Chinese culture and gain practical experience to connect theory to practice
Browse courses on
Chinese Culture
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Volunteer at a Chinese cultural center or organization
- Participate in cultural events and activities
- Interact with native speakers and engage in cultural exchanges
Chinese Language Project
Show steps
Develop a deeper understanding and practical proficiency in the Chinese language and gain hands-on experience for a well-rounded learning
Browse courses on
Chinese
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Set a goal for your language learning, such as achieving a certain level of fluency or proficiency
- Create a study plan that includes regular practice, immersion, and feedback
- Find a language partner or tutor to practice speaking and listening
- Use language learning apps, websites, or textbooks to supplement your studies
- Immerse yourself in Chinese culture through movies, TV shows, music, or literature
Career center
Learners who complete China’s Political and Intellectual Foundations: From Sage Kings to Confucius will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Historian
Historian
Historians are responsible for researching, analyzing, and interpreting the past. Their research methods align very closely with those taught in this course, from looking at primary resources and historical documents to presenting their findings. Historians can choose to work in academia or government agencies, though there are other research-focused institutions. This course's focus on the history of China, particularly on the political, social, and intellectual history of its earlier dynasties, gives Historians a valuable look into the development of Chinese society.
Archaeologist
Archaeologist
Archaeologists typically work on a research team investigating lands or underwater areas where historical artifacts are likely to be found. The focus of this course on China's history, culture, and politics, particularly in its earlier days, will be very helpful to archaeologists specializing in the history of Chinese civilization or culture, as it will provide a greater background on the context in which these artifacts were made.
Professor
Professor
Professors at colleges and universities teach courses and conduct research in their fields. Professors typically study and specialize in a particular field over many years, potentially earning multiple degrees. Those who specialize in the history of China or Chinese culture may find this course helpful, as it covers the political, cultural, and intellectual history of China.
Political Scientist
Political Scientist
Political Scientists study politics and government. They examine political systems and institutions, and research public opinion and political behavior. Political Scientists may specialize in a particular region or country, and those who specialize in China may find this course helpful, as it covers the history of Chinese political systems and institutions.
Anthropologist
Anthropologist
Anthropologists tend to focus on understanding how different cultures and societies work together or compare to each other. The focus of this course on China's political, cultural, and intellectual history gives a unique insight into how these factors drive cultural development. Anthropologists interested in Chinese culture, history, or society, either in contemporary or historical contexts, may find this course to be very helpful.
Archivist
Archivist
Archivists collect, organize, and preserve documents, artifacts, and other types of archival materials. In museums, an Archivist typically specializes in the artifacts or documents. The focus of this course on the political, cultural, and intellectual history of China will help an Archivist in this specialized field understand the archival materials that they may come into contact with and how to synthesize this material for interested researchers.
Sociologist
Sociologist
Sociologists are social scientists who study society. They research social issues, trends, and behaviors. Sociologists commonly work for colleges, government agencies, or research institutions. While not all Sociologists focus on a particular region, those that do might benefit from this course's focus on the political, cultural, and intellectual history of China, as it gives insight into the history of societal and cultural norms and issues.
Museum Educator
Museum Educator
Museum Educators help interpret exhibits or museum collections for museum visitors. Using a combination of public speaking and thought-provoking questions, Museum Educators help guide visitors through the museum and improve their educational experience. This course on the history, culture, and politics of China can provide Museum Educators with a deeper understanding of many Chinese cultural artifacts, improving their ability to educate visitors.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists gather, analyze, and report on news and current events. While most Journalists specialize in a particular topic or region, this course could be very valuable to a Journalist specializing in East Asian or Chinese history and culture, as it gives context to contemporary political and cultural movements.
Librarian
Librarian
Librarians make information accessible to library patrons. This work can take many different forms. Some Librarians manage the library's physical collection, while others assist researchers with specialized research needs, and still more develop programming and outreach events for their communities. This course's focus on the political, cultural, and intellectual history of China may be of particular interest to an academic Librarian specializing in Asian history.
Research Scientist
Research Scientist
Research Scientists typically work in a laboratory setting conducting controlled experiments, also called research, that test hypotheses to discover new knowledge and innovations. Those who specialize in China or East Asia may find this course helpful, as it covers the political, cultural, and intellectual history of China, which can give context to modern-day research.
Assistant Curator
Assistant Curator
Assistant Curators are the museum's first point of contact with patrons and members of the community, making this role an ideal introduction to the museum studies field. With oversight from a higher-ranking museum professional, the Assistant Curator could identify and secure relics, artifacts, and items for exhibits and the permanent collection. The focus of this course on the political, cultural, and intellectual history of China gives insight into how societal norms influenced cultural norms, which may give Assistant Curators insight into the motivations and outcomes of historical donors and their donations.
Editor
Editor
Editors perform duties such as planning and coordinating written content, images, and other media elements across a variety of formats. This course could be very valuable to an Editor specializing in East Asian or Chinese history and culture, as it gives context to contemporary political and cultural movements.
Translator
Translator
Translators convert written or spoken material from one language into another, ensuring accuracy in meaning and tone. This course on the history and culture of China may be of value to a Translator specializing in Chinese history or culture, as it may provide insights into the nuances and context of Chinese language.
Writer
Writer
Writers develop, create, and communicate information and ideas on a variety of topics for a variety of purposes. This course could be very valuable to a Writer specializing in East Asian or Chinese history and culture, as it gives context to contemporary political and cultural movements.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/hpblfw/china
Reading list
We've selected nine 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
China’s Political and Intellectual Foundations: From Sage Kings to Confucius.
Save
Collection of Confucius's teachings on ethics, government, and society. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand Confucianism and its impact on Chinese history and culture.
Provides a comprehensive overview of ancient Chinese history and civilization, from its origins to the founding of the Qin dynasty in 221 BC. It valuable resource for students and scholars of Chinese history and culture.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of Chinese political thought, from the early Confucian period to the late Qing dynasty. It valuable resource for students and scholars of Chinese history and culture.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Tao Te Ching, a classic work of Chinese philosophy.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of Chinese history, culture, and society. It valuable resource for students and scholars of Chinese history and culture.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Zhuangzi, a classic work of Chinese philosophy.
Collection of ancient Chinese poetry. It valuable resource for students and scholars of Chinese literature and culture.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of Legalist thought in China, from the early Confucian period to the late Qing dynasty. It valuable resource for students and scholars of Chinese history and culture.
Save
Provides a fascinating account of the discovery and study of oracle bones, which are ancient Chinese inscriptions on turtle shells and animal bones. It valuable resource for students and scholars of Chinese history and culture.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/hpblfw/china
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Effort
1 to 3 hours per week for 15 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Harvard University
Instructors
Peter K. Bol
William C. Kirby
Session
May 29, 2024
- May 28, 2025
Language
English
Transcripts
English
中文
This course belongs to a
collection
called
History of China: Bronze Age to the Last Dynasties. It's comprised of five courses:
- China’s Political and Intellectual Foundations: From Sage Kings to Confucius (viewing)
- China’s First Empires and the Rise of Buddhism
- Cosmopolitan Tang: Aristocratic Culture in China
- Global China: From the Mongols to the Ming
- Literati China: Examinations, Neo-Confucianism, and Later Imperial China
Good to know
Introduces the history, geography, and culture of China
Explores time, space, and identity, which are enduring issues in Chinese history
Covers the early dynasties to emphasize the impact of physical geography and ethnicity on Chinese identity
Examines China's origins through ancient texts and modern archaeology
Provides an overview of the first dynasties during the Chinese bronze age
Covers the many facets of Confucianism and his Analects
Explores the competing schools of thought that followed Confucianism
Requires strong interest and/or academic background in Chinese history
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