Lesson 9: Chinese Literature

Confucian Analects, Tao Te Ching, Zhuangzi, I Ching

Key texts of ancient Chinese literature

Li Bai, Du Fu, Wang Wei

Notable poets from the Tang Dynasty

Nature, personal reflection, political commentary

Common themes in Tang Dynasty poetry

Li Bai’s "Drinking Alone by Moonlight", Du Fu’s "Spring View"

Famous works from Tang Dynasty poets

Su Shi, Li Qingzhao

Notable authors from the Song Dynasty

"Journey to the West", "Water Margin", "Romance of the Three Kingdoms", "Dream of the Red Chamber"

Great novels of the Ming and Qing Dynasties

Loyalty, rebellion, social hierarchy

Themes in Ming and Qing Dynasty novels

Lu Xun

Key writers from the Modern Era (20th Century)

"A Madman’s Diary", "The True Story of Ah Q"

Notable works by Lu Xun

Mo Yan, Yu Hua

Prominent contemporary Chinese writers

Engagement with China’s rapid modernization, complex cultural identity

Common themes in contemporary Chinese literature