Social Changes Reflected in Contemporary Chinese Literature

The mission of the novel, a genre of narrative art, is to depict human life and soul in a specific historical era and social environment. The development of contemporary Chinese literature profoundly represents the changes and progress of Chinese society. Since the implementation of social reforms and open-door policies starting 30 years ago, Chinese society and the people’s lives and spirit have undergone great changes, which are presented colorfully and vividly in contemporary Chinese novels. This course will analyze and discuss crucial issues in the process of social reform and modernization through the reading and analyses of literary works published during the New Era and in recent years. It will also discuss the Chinese people’s life style, cultural psychology, ethics, customs and habits, and language and diction revealed in novels. The combination of social criticism and literary appreciation will enhance the students’ understanding of Chinese society and culture, and improve their mastery of Chinese language and teaching. Reading and class discussion will be in Chinese. Course requirements include two short papers, and one final paper.

A course pack will be available.