FIRST SEMESTER CLASSICAL CHINESE
Provides an introduction to basic grammar and vocabulary of literary Chinese prose and poetry. In addition, fundamental background knowledge and reference tools that can aid in the understanding of classical Chinese texts will be introduced. English is the primary language of translation and class discussion, with supplementary use of modern Mandarin. This course is intended for learners of modern Chinese as a foreign language and students of other Asian languages who need Classical Chinese for their studies. Students with prior experience in the language are required to take a placement test administered by the department.
Prerequisites & course information
Requisites: ASIALANG 202 , 358 , or placement into ASIALANG 301 Course Designation: Core GenEd - Humanities & Arts Breadth - Literature Level - Advanced L&S Credit - L&S Liberal Arts and Science Repeatable for Credit: No Last Taught: Fall 2026 Learning Outcomes: 1. Comprehend and analyze the content and cultural connotations of short texts written in Classical Chinese. Audience: Undergraduate 2. Use Classical Chinese as a medium for insight into culture, society, history, and literature in pre-twentieth century East Asia, and share your insights with your peers. Audience: Undergraduate 3. Translate from Classical Chinese to English and the reverse, and compose simple texts in Classical Chinese. Audience: Undergraduate 4. Collaborate with peers from different linguistic backgrounds to develop and polish translations and curricular material. Audience: Undergraduate 5. Compare the features of Classical Chinese to modern Chinese (and/or other East Asian languages). Audience: Undergraduate 6. Use a repertoire of reference tools to assist in independent understanding of Classical Chinese texts. Audience: Undergraduate Learning Outcomes: 1. Comprehend and analyze the content and cultural connotations of short texts written in Classical Chinese. Audience: Undergraduate 2. Use Classical Chinese as a medium for insight into culture, society, history, and literature in pre-twentieth century East Asia, and share your insights with your peers. Audience: Undergraduate 3. Translate from Classical Chinese to English and the reverse, and compose simple texts in Classical Chinese. Audience: Undergraduate 4. Collaborate with peers from different linguistic backgrounds to develop and polish translations and curricular material. Audience: Undergraduate 5. Compare the features of Classical Chinese to modern Chinese (and/or other East Asian languages). Audience: Undergraduate 6. Use a repertoire of reference tools to assist in independent understanding of Classical Chinese texts. Audience: Undergraduate
Sources
- Course catalogue ↗2026-2027