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Peter K. Bol
and
William C. Kirby
By the Tang period, China was divided into northern and southern dynasties with different rulers and political systems. The north was conquered by relatively unsophisticated barbarians, but in the south, the aristocratic families established a refined appreciation of writing and literature.
Read more
By the Tang period, China was divided into northern and southern dynasties with different rulers and political systems. The north was conquered by relatively unsophisticated barbarians, but in the south, the aristocratic families established a refined appreciation of writing and literature.
Read more
By the Tang period, China was divided into northern and southern dynasties with different rulers and political systems. The north was conquered by relatively unsophisticated barbarians, but in the south, the aristocratic families established a refined appreciation of writing and literature.
In this course, the third in a large collection covering all of Chinese history, you’ll learn about the Cosmopolitan Tang and the reemergence of great aristocratic clans. You’ll discover how these clans formed a kind of state aristocracy that dominated Tang government and society.
This period — a product of the Medieval period, and of the development of Buddhism and Daoism — gave the world a model for modern statehood the great cosmopolitan empire that defined it is among the highest achievements in Medieval culture. Join us to discover those achievements through readings of classical Chinese poetry and a review of the ancient art of calligraphy.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/zks433/cosmopolitan
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What's inside
Learning objectives
- How the dynasties of north and south were reunified under the sui and tang.
- How to analyze china’s first multi-ethnic empire and its foreign relations.
- How to compose and analyze poetry and calligraphy.
- How to understand a romantic story as both history and literature.
- How the dynasties of north and south were reunified under the sui and tang.
- How to analyze china’s first multi-ethnic empire and its foreign relations.
- How to compose and analyze poetry and calligraphy.
- How to understand a romantic story as both history and literature.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Teaches historical events central to cultural developments in China
Taught by Peter K. Bol and William C. Kirby, well-known and respected scholars of Chinese history
Well-suited for learners who are curious about the history of Chinese literature, Buddhism, and Daoism
Useful for learners who want to understand how China became a modern state
Some background knowledge in Chinese history may be beneficial for learners
Save this course
Save Cosmopolitan Tang: Aristocratic Culture in China to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Reviews summary
Appealing overview of sophisticated china
Students are largely positive about the course on Cosmopolitan Tang, calling it insightful and well-curated.
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 Cosmopolitan Tang: Aristocratic Culture in China with these
activities:
Review the history of Chinese writing and literature
Show steps
Reviewing the history of Chinese writing and literature will provide context for understanding the literary achievements of the Tang dynasty.
Browse courses on
Chinese Writing
Show steps
-
Read an overview of the history of Chinese writing
-
Research the major works of Chinese literature written before the Tang dynasty
-
Create a timeline of the major events in the history of Chinese writing and literature
Review the Han dynasty
Show steps
Reviewing the Han dynasty will provide foundational knowledge for understanding the Tang dynasty.
Browse courses on
Han Dynasty
Show steps
-
Read an overview of the Han dynasty
-
Research the major emperors of the Han dynasty
-
Create a timeline of the Han dynasty
Read The History of the Tang Dynasty by Bo Yang
Show steps
Reading The History of the Tang Dynasty will provide a comprehensive overview of the Tang dynasty.
View
Empress Wu Zetian 1
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book and take notes on the major events of the Tang dynasty
-
Create a timeline of the major events of the Tang dynasty
-
Write a summary of the book
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Write a poem in the style of a Tang dynasty poet
Show steps
Writing a poem in the style of a Tang dynasty poet will help you understand the literary techniques and conventions of the period.
Show steps
-
Read several poems by Tang dynasty poets
-
Identify the common themes and techniques used in Tang dynasty poetry
-
Write a poem in the style of a Tang dynasty poet
Follow a tutorial on Chinese calligraphy
Show steps
Following a tutorial on Chinese calligraphy will help you understand the techniques used to create the beautiful calligraphy of the Tang dynasty.
Show steps
-
Find a tutorial on Chinese calligraphy
-
Gather the necessary materials
-
Follow the tutorial and practice writing Chinese characters
Create a website or blog about the Tang dynasty
Show steps
Creating a website or blog about the Tang dynasty will help you synthesize your knowledge of the period and share it with others.
Show steps
-
Choose a topic for your website or blog
-
Research your topic
-
Create a website or blog and publish your research
Give a presentation on the Tang dynasty to your class
Show steps
Giving a presentation on the Tang dynasty to your class will help you organize your knowledge and communicate it effectively.
Show steps
-
Research the Tang dynasty
-
Choose a topic for your presentation
-
Create a presentation on the Tang dynasty
Tutor a student in Chinese history
Show steps
Tutoring a student in Chinese history will help you solidify your own understanding of the subject.
Show steps
-
Find a student to tutor
-
Plan your tutoring sessions
-
Tutor the student in Chinese history
Review the history of Chinese writing and literature
Show steps
Reviewing the history of Chinese writing and literature will provide context for understanding the literary achievements of the Tang dynasty.
Browse courses on
Chinese Writing
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read an overview of the history of Chinese writing
- Research the major works of Chinese literature written before the Tang dynasty
- Create a timeline of the major events in the history of Chinese writing and literature
Review the Han dynasty
Show steps
Reviewing the Han dynasty will provide foundational knowledge for understanding the Tang dynasty.
Browse courses on
Han Dynasty
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read an overview of the Han dynasty
- Research the major emperors of the Han dynasty
- Create a timeline of the Han dynasty
Read The History of the Tang Dynasty by Bo Yang
Show steps
Reading The History of the Tang Dynasty will provide a comprehensive overview of the Tang dynasty.
View
Empress Wu Zetian 1
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book and take notes on the major events of the Tang dynasty
- Create a timeline of the major events of the Tang dynasty
- Write a summary of the book
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Write a poem in the style of a Tang dynasty poet
Show steps
Writing a poem in the style of a Tang dynasty poet will help you understand the literary techniques and conventions of the period.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read several poems by Tang dynasty poets
- Identify the common themes and techniques used in Tang dynasty poetry
- Write a poem in the style of a Tang dynasty poet
Follow a tutorial on Chinese calligraphy
Show steps
Following a tutorial on Chinese calligraphy will help you understand the techniques used to create the beautiful calligraphy of the Tang dynasty.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a tutorial on Chinese calligraphy
- Gather the necessary materials
- Follow the tutorial and practice writing Chinese characters
Create a website or blog about the Tang dynasty
Show steps
Creating a website or blog about the Tang dynasty will help you synthesize your knowledge of the period and share it with others.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a topic for your website or blog
- Research your topic
- Create a website or blog and publish your research
Give a presentation on the Tang dynasty to your class
Show steps
Giving a presentation on the Tang dynasty to your class will help you organize your knowledge and communicate it effectively.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research the Tang dynasty
- Choose a topic for your presentation
- Create a presentation on the Tang dynasty
Tutor a student in Chinese history
Show steps
Tutoring a student in Chinese history will help you solidify your own understanding of the subject.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a student to tutor
- Plan your tutoring sessions
- Tutor the student in Chinese history
Career center
Learners who complete Cosmopolitan Tang: Aristocratic Culture in China will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Sinologist
Sinologist
Sinologists study Chinese language, literature, history, and culture. They may work in universities, research institutions, or government agencies. The Cosmopolitan Tang course can provide a foundation in Chinese history and culture, which is essential for Sinologists. Additionally, the course's focus on classical Chinese poetry and calligraphy may be helpful for Sinologists who want to study Chinese literature and art.
Art historian
Art historian
Art Historians study the history of art and architecture. They may work in museums, galleries, or universities. The Cosmopolitan Tang course can provide a foundation in Chinese art history, which may be particularly relevant for Art Historians who specialize in Asian art. Additionally, the course's focus on calligraphy and painting may be helpful for Art Historians who want to study Chinese aesthetics.
Cultural Anthropologist
Cultural Anthropologist
Cultural Anthropologists study the cultures of different societies. They may conduct research in a variety of settings, including universities, museums, and government agencies. The Cosmopolitan Tang course can provide a foundation in cultural anthropology, which may be particularly relevant for Cultural Anthropologists who specialize in Asian studies. Additionally, the course's focus on Chinese history and culture may be helpful for Cultural Anthropologists who want to conduct research in China.
Historian
Historian
Historians research, analyze, interpret, and write about the past by studying historical documents and sources. The Cosmopolitan Tang course can help develop research and analytical skills that are essential for Historians. Additionally, the course's focus on Chinese history and culture may be particularly relevant for Historians who specialize in Asian history.
Teacher
Teacher
Teachers instruct students at all levels, from preschool through college. They develop lesson plans, teach classes, and assess student learning. The Cosmopolitan Tang course can provide a foundation in Chinese history and culture, which may be particularly relevant for Teachers who teach Asian history or culture. Additionally, the course's focus on poetry and calligraphy may be helpful for Teachers who want to incorporate these topics into their teaching.
Writer
Writer
Writers create written content for a variety of purposes, including fiction, non-fiction, journalism, and advertising. The Cosmopolitan Tang course can help develop writing and critical thinking skills that are essential for Writers. Additionally, the course's focus on Chinese history and culture may be particularly relevant for Writers who want to write about Asian topics.
Professor
Professor
Professors teach and conduct research at colleges and universities. The Cosmopolitan Tang course can provide a foundation in Chinese history and culture, which may be particularly relevant for Professors who teach Asian history or culture. Additionally, the course's focus on research and writing may be helpful for Professors who want to publish their work in academic journals.
Archivist
Archivist
Archivists appraise, acquire, preserve, arrange, describe, and provide access to historical records. They may also conduct research and write about archival materials. The Cosmopolitan Tang course can provide a foundation in historical research and analysis, which may be полезный for Archivists who want to work with Chinese historical documents.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists gather, analyze, and report on news and current events. They may write articles, produce broadcasts, or create online content. The Cosmopolitan Tang course can help develop research, writing, and critical thinking skills that are essential for Journalists. Additionally, the course's focus on Chinese history and culture may be particularly relevant for Journalists who want to specialize in Asian affairs.
Librarian
Librarian
Librarians help users find and access information. They may also select, acquire, catalog, organize, and preserve library materials. The Cosmopolitan Tang course can help develop research and information literacy skills that are essential for Librarians. Additionally, the course's focus on Chinese history and culture may be particularly relevant for Librarians who work in libraries with Asian collections.
Archaeologist
Archaeologist
Archaeologists study past cultures by excavating and examining artifacts and遺跡. They may also conduct research in museums, laboratories, and libraries. The Cosmopolitan Tang course can provide a foundation in Chinese history and culture, which may be particularly relevant for Archaeologists who specialize in Asian archaeology. Additionally, the course's focus on material culture may be helpful for Archaeologists who want to study Chinese art and architecture.
Foreign Service Officer
Foreign Service Officer
Foreign Service Officers represent the United States abroad. They work in embassies and consulates to promote American interests and build relationships with foreign governments. The Cosmopolitan Tang course can provide a foundation in Chinese history and culture, which may be particularly relevant for Foreign Service Officers who are assigned to China. Additionally, the course's focus on diplomacy and foreign relations may be helpful for Foreign Service Officers who want to build careers in international affairs.
Museum Educator
Museum Educator
Museum Educators develop and implement educational programs for museum visitors. They may also lead tours, give lectures, and create educational materials. The Cosmopolitan Tang course can provide a foundation in Chinese history and culture, which may be particularly relevant for Museum Educators who work in museums with Asian collections. Additionally, the course's focus on art and culture may be helpful for Museum Educators who want to develop educational programs about Chinese art and history.
Anthropologist
Anthropologist
Anthropologists study the behavior, origin, and development of humans. They may conduct research in a variety of settings, including universities, museums, and government agencies. The Cosmopolitan Tang course can provide a foundation in cultural anthropology, which may be particularly relevant for Anthropologists who specialize in Asian studies. Additionally, the course's focus on Chinese history and culture may be helpful for Anthropologists who want to conduct research in China.
Museum curator
Museum curator
Museum Curators oversee museum operations such as acquisitions, exhibitions, loans, and preservation of collections. They may also conduct research, write grants, and give lectures. The Cosmopolitan Tang course will provide valuable insights into Chinese art and culture, which may be useful for a Museum Curator who wants to specialize in Asian art history.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/zks433/cosmopolitan
Reading list
We've selected 31 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
Cosmopolitan Tang: Aristocratic Culture in China.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Sui and Tang dynasties. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about this important period in Chinese history.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Tang dynasty, including its political, economic, social, and cultural history. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about this important period in Chinese history.
This comprehensive volume provides an in-depth analysis of the Sui and Tang dynasties, offering valuable insights into the political, economic, and cultural developments that shaped this pivotal period in Chinese history.
Provides a detailed look at the culture of the Tang dynasty, covering topics such as literature, art, music, and dance. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the cultural achievements of the Tang dynasty.
Written by one of the course instructors, this book offers a concise yet thorough overview of the Tang dynasty, covering its political, social, and cultural aspects.
Save
Explores the influence of Daoism on Tang society and culture, particularly in the areas of philosophy, literature, and art. Provides a deeper understanding of the religious and spiritual beliefs of the period.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Song dynasty. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about this important period in Chinese history.
Save
Provides a more focused look at the cultural history of the Tang dynasty. It covers a wide range of topics, including literature, art, music, and religion.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the development of Buddhism in China, including its influence on Chinese culture and society during the Tang dynasty.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of China, covering topics such as the origins of Chinese civilization, the development of Chinese society, and the impact of China on world history. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the history of China.
Provides a concise overview of the history of China, covering topics such as the origins of Chinese civilization, the development of Chinese society, and the impact of China on world history. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the history of China.
Provides a detailed look at the origins of Chinese civilization, covering topics such as the development of agriculture, the emergence of social stratification, and the rise of early states. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the early history of China.
Save
A classic Japanese novel written during the Heian period, which was influenced by the Tang dynasty. Offers insights into the aristocratic society and cultural exchanges between China and Japan.
Save
Explores the history and influence of Daoism in Chinese culture, providing insights into its role in shaping the worldview and practices of the Tang dynasty.
Provides a detailed history of the Former Han dynasty. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about this important period in Chinese history.
Provides a detailed history of the Later Han dynasty. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about this important period in Chinese history.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of China, covering topics such as the origins of Chinese civilization, the development of Chinese society, and the impact of China on world history. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the history of China.
Provides a comparative overview of the history of empires and civilizations around the world, including China. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the history of China in a global context.
Provides a detailed political history of the Tang dynasty. It covers the reigns of all of the major Tang emperors, and it provides a valuable overview of the political landscape of the period.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of Taoism in China, covering topics such as the origins of Taoism, the development of Taoist thought, and the impact of Taoism on Chinese culture. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the history of Taoism in China.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the history of the Silk Road, covering topics such as the origins of the Silk Road, the development of the Silk Road, and the impact of the Silk Road on world history. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the history of the Silk Road.
Save
Provides a comprehensive history of China from the earliest times to the Song dynasty. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about Chinese history.
A historical investigation into the collapse of the Tang dynasty. Provides a deeper understanding of the political and social factors that led to the decline of the empire.
Save
An in-depth study of the Later Han Dynasty, which preceded the Tang dynasty. Provides valuable background information on the political, economic, and social conditions of the time.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Chinese history and culture. It includes a chapter on the Tang dynasty, which provides a valuable overview of the political, экономический, social, and cultural history of the period.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of Chinese history. It includes a chapter on the Tang dynasty, which provides a valuable overview of the political, экономический, social, and cultural history of the period.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Chinese history. It includes a chapter on the Tang dynasty, which provides a valuable overview of the political, экономический, social, and cultural history of the period.
Save
Collection of essays, poems, and other writings from the Tang dynasty. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the literature and culture of the period.
Collection of poems from the Zhou dynasty. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the literature and culture of the period.
Military treatise from the Warring States period. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the military history and strategy of the period.
Provides historical context by examining the period before the Tang dynasty, focusing on the Northern Dynasties. Helps understand the political and cultural developments that led to the emergence of the Sui and Tang empires.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/zks433/cosmopolitan
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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
- China’s First Empires and the Rise of Buddhism
- Cosmopolitan Tang: Aristocratic Culture in China (viewing)
- Global China: From the Mongols to the Ming
- Literati China: Examinations, Neo-Confucianism, and Later Imperial China
Good to know
Teaches historical events central to cultural developments in China
Taught by Peter K. Bol and William C. Kirby, well-known and respected scholars of Chinese history
Well-suited for learners who are curious about the history of Chinese literature, Buddhism, and Daoism
Useful for learners who want to understand how China became a modern state
Some background knowledge in Chinese history may be beneficial for learners
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