19500 - Women, Writing, and Nation: Case Studies of Four Chinese Women Writers

Course Overview

We’ll examine and discuss the works of four selected Chinese women writers from the ancient time to the present day, with a focus on the exploration of gender, identity, and the relationship between women, writing, and nation. Students will read selected works of fiction, poetry, and non-fiction by renowned Chinese women writers, such as Cai Yan, Li Qingzhao, Qiu Jin, and Xiao Hong. Through close reading and critical analysis, students will explore the ways in which these writers challenge traditional notions of gender roles and relationships, and how they address issues such as homeland, cultural identity, and revolution and war. Required Reading: The Field of Life and Death by Xiao Hong, translated by Howard Goldblatt (Amazon). The instructor will provide other readings through email.