Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/tang-poems
Tang poetry stands as a monumental achievement in the history of literature and a precious gift to human civilization. The Coursera course, ‘Tang Poetry New Ideas’ (唐詩新思路), offers a refreshing departure from generic overviews, instead delving into specific facets of Tang poetry from the Early to the Late Tang period. This course aims to correct historical misinterpretations and biases surrounding certain poems and poets, encouraging a fresh perspective on renowned figures like Chen Zi’ang, Wang Wei, Li Bai, Du Fu, Bai Juyi, and Li Shangyin.
The course begins by challenging the conventional portrayal of Chen Zi’ang as solely a proponent of ‘antiquity,’ questioning whether his rejection of the Six Dynasties’ ornate style was as absolute as history suggests. It probes for alternative interpretations of his work and motivations.
Wang Wei, often labeled a ‘naturalist poet,’ is presented with a much broader scope of achievement. The course dissects the deeper meanings behind his famous line, ‘Have the cold plum blossoms started to bloom?’ from ‘Miscellaneous Poems,’ exploring the psychological underpinnings of his question to returning hometown acquaintances.
Li Bai, the ‘Poet Immortal,’ is examined through his ‘Songs of Qingping’ (清平調詞三首). The course delves into the context and imagery of these poems, arguing that they are genuine tributes to the love between Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei, dispelling the common misconception that they were satirical.
The course then shifts to Du Fu, exploring his portrayal of family life and marital relationships through the lens of his poem ‘Moonlit Night’ (月夜). It highlights how Du Fu’s profound humanity, rooted in Confucianism yet enriched by synthesis, contributes to his greatness.
Bai Juyi’s ‘Pipa Girl’ (琵琶行) is re-examined, with the course focusing on the origins of its musical descriptions and offering a nuanced understanding of the Pipa girl’s character and Bai Juyi’s own personality, providing a more accurate interpretation of the famous line, ‘Both are unfortunate people on the same journey.’
Finally, the course tackles Li Shangyin’s enigmatic ‘Brocade Zither’ (錦瑟), often considered his magnum opus. It promises to clarify the poem’s true meaning through accurate philological analysis, moving beyond superficial interpretations and revealing Li Shangyin’s unique tragic disposition.
Overall, ‘Tang Poetry New Ideas’ is a highly recommended course for anyone seeking a deeper, more critical, and insightful understanding of Tang poetry. It skillfully blends historical context, literary analysis, and psychological exploration to bring these timeless poems and their creators to life.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/tang-poems