Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/poetry-prose-novel
Embarking on a journey through the rich landscape of modern Chinese literature can be a deeply rewarding experience, and Coursera’s course, ‘現代文學導讀：詩、散文、小說’ (Introduction to Modern Chinese Literature: Poetry, Prose, and Fiction), offers a fantastic entry point. This course, also known as ‘Vernacular Literature’ or ‘New Literature,’ traces its roots back to the May Fourth Movement’s vernacular literature revolution and even earlier to the literary reforms of the late Qing Dynasty.
The curriculum thoughtfully divides modern Chinese literature into its key genres: poetry, prose, and fiction, with a special emphasis on translated fiction, which played a significant role from the late Qing period onwards. Through the works of influential writers such as Xu Zhimo, Liang Shiqiu, Yang Mu, Shen Congwen, and Lin Shu, the course explores how these authors expressed their views on a new world, new ideas, and new culture, shaping new aesthetics and values.
Each module is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding. We begin with an introduction to the course and modern literature itself. Then, the course delves into the poetic legacy of Xu Zhimo, examining the forms and characteristics of his poetry. Following this, we explore the beauty of modern prose through the works of Liang Shiqiu and Yang Mu, dissecting the stylistic features and forms of the prose genre. The course then immerses us in the captivating fictional world of Shen Congwen, analyzing his unique writing style and the historical context of his narratives. Finally, the course concludes with an exploration of Lin Shu and the rise and impact of translated fiction, highlighting its emotional resonance and cultural influence.
Upon completing this course, you will be equipped to identify the forms and characteristics of poetry, articulate the features and forms of prose, explain Shen Congwen’s distinctive style and the background of his writing, and describe the emergence and influence of translated fiction. This course is not just an academic pursuit; it’s an invitation to appreciate literature, understand its evolution, and connect with the enduring human spirit.
I highly recommend ‘現代文學導讀：詩、散文、小說’ to anyone interested in modern Chinese literary history, cultural studies, or simply seeking to broaden their literary horizons. It’s an accessible yet profound exploration that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for this vibrant literary tradition.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/poetry-prose-novel