From Desktop to Stage: Drama and Performance in Late Imperial China

This course examines the multiple social and aesthetic functions of late imperial Chinese theatre between 1368 and 1840: theatre as lyrical self-expression, political action,ideological propaganda, and/or religious ritual. Close examination of translated plays and their sociohistoric contexts are combined with multimedial approaches that explore woodblock illustration, stage adaptation, and film related to the selected plays. The course covers topics that range from literati masterpieces, theatrical training, props and costumes, regional theatres, to women’s ballads. Prerequisites: Some knowledge of Chinese history is preferred but not mandated.