Like all World Languages & Literatures (WLL) majors, Chinese Language & Literature majors generally begin with CAS XL 100 Leaving Home: Explorations in World Literature, a team-taught course in which students meet the WLL faculty through guest lectures and get oriented in the rich diversity of the world's literary traditions. They begin Chinese language study as early as possible and complete at least three language courses beyond the fourth-term level (CAS LC 212). Students also have the option of taking introductory as well as more advanced courses in Classical Chinese. CAS LC 250 Masterpieces of Chinese Literature introduces students to major texts in English translation and can be taken early in the student's program. Four additional courses in Chinese language, literature, and/or culture provide greater depth in areas of special interest to the student. One WLL elective focusing on language, literature, or culture from outside the Chinese-speaking world enhances regional, global, and/or historical comparison. Students wishing to explore more of WLL's course offerings outside of Chinese may substitute an additional elective for one of their four courses in Chinese language, literature, or culture.
Majors reconvene with all WLL majors in the senior capstone seminar CAS XL 479, where they work with a faculty mentor on a final project using Chinese-language materials. The course provides students with structure and research guidance for developing and discussing their projects, while meetings with a faculty language mentor hone students advanced language skills as applied to the area of their research. Student presentations build oral communication skills and the ability to describe one's work to others. Possible final projects could include a research paper on literature, film, or popular culture, an annotated translation or work of subtitling, a video essay, or a digital humanities project. Students producing excellent capstone projects will be encouraged to develop them into senior honors work.
Learning Outcomes
Advanced knowledge of major themes and genres in Chinese literature and culture from the beginnings to contemporary film and new media.
Critical thinking, communication, and writing skills within areas of content and cultural knowledge.
Familiarity with fundamental research skills for Chinese studies, including use of traditional and electronic sources.
Proficiency in speaking, reading, writing, and listening comprehension in Chinese at the intermediate-high level as measured by ACTFL guidelines.
