HIST 402 & THEA 402 – Exploring Asia:
The History and Theatre of China and Tibet
May 14 – June 9, 2007
These two courses provide an introduction to the form, structure and conventions of traditional Chinese and Tibetan theatre within the context of the history of ancient and Imperial China. The course is arranged chronologically, examining the historical, cultural, sociological, and religious evolution of China and the development of major traditional theatre forms from their origins in folklore, myth, and religion. The most exciting feature of this program is the opportunity to visit important historical and cultural locations in China, to study and observe training practices in some of China's best traditional theatre schools, to see live performances, and to be able to take backstage tours, including the opportunity to meet with the artists from the major companies in China.
History 402. History of Imperial China
This course focuses on ancient and traditional China. Students discuss the rise of the dynastic system, unification under the First Emperor (including building of the Great Wall and the tomb of the Emperor), the development of the philosophies and religions of China (Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism), and historical events under the Han, T'ang, Sung, Mongol, Ming and Manchu dynasties. This historical survey will provide the basis for our understanding of the development of Chinese culture. (Goldberg)
Theatre 402. Traditional Theatre of China
This course focuses on the exploration of the remarkable world of traditional Chinese and Tibetan Theatre. Students consider the development of major traditional forms from their origins in folklore, myth, and religion, within the historical, cultural, and aesthetic framework of their times, as well as their place in today's world. The most exciting features of the course are that we will study and observe training practices in some of China's best traditional theatre schools, see live performances followed by backstage tours where we will meet with the artists, and in addition, tour some of the most important historical and cultural locations in China. (Backlund)
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