ASIA205

This course surveys Chinese poetry (shi) from its beginnings in the oldest collection of Chinese poetry, the Classic of Poetry, to contemporary vernacular poems or "new poetry" (xinshi). Special attention is paid to major canonical poets, important poetic anthologies, and poets whose individual talents have transformed the tradition of classical Chinese poetry. Chinese poems written in premodern Japan and Korea are also introduced. In addition, students read theoretical essays about poetry from the ancient to contemporary eras in China. All readings are in English and there is no Chinese language requirement. Recommended background: basic knowledge of Chinese history or knowledge of poetry in other languages.