Listed in: Asian Languages and Civilizations, as ASLC-206 | Russian, as RUSS-206
Yang Hua (Section 01)
(Offered as ASLC 206 and RUSS 206) This course probes into the sustained interactions between China and Russia throughout the twentieth century. It traces the convoluted trajectory of their transnational and transcultural contact against the political backdrop of global Communism. Major units include the Chinese iconoclasts’ fascination with Russian fiction, the Soviet modernist longing for an “authentic” China, the Maoist reinvention of socialist realism, and the Cold War vicissitudes of Sino-Soviet friendship. The course highlights the capacity of aesthetic forms to mediate political and social relationships across borders. We explore the creative space opened up by literature, drama, and film in which internationalist and cosmopolitan ideals are both embraced and questioned. Having charted the emancipatory promises and limits of revolutionary romance, the course concludes by pondering its contested legacies that continue to haunt the post-socialist present, both within and beyond the Sino-Russian spheres.
All readings are in English. Prior knowledge of modern China or the Soviet Union is not assumed. Requirements include reading posts on Moodle, two short papers, and one final paper. Two class meetings per week.
Spring semester. Visiting Professor Hua.
How to handle overenrollment: Priority will be given to ASLC majors
Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: Readings. Two short papers, and one final paper
Section 01
Tu 11:30 AM - 12:50 PM WEBS 220
Th 11:30 AM - 12:50 PM WEBS 220