This course introduces students to modern Chinese history, society, and culture from 1840 to the present, with a special focus on the developments of the twentieth century. We will investigate three sets of major problems: (1) China is often seen as an ethnically and culturally homogeneous society, but what is China and (Han) Chinese? (2) How did China transition from a multi-ethnic empire to a modern nation state? (3) What does modernity mean in the Chinese context? Aside from these specific objectives, this course will also teach students to analyze written and visual texts found in various genres. No prior knowledge of Chinese history, culture, or language required.

This course introduces students to modern Chinese history, society, and culture from 1840 to the present, with a special focus on the developments of the twentieth century. We will investigate three sets of major problems: (1) China is often seen as an ethnically and culturally homogeneous society, but what is China and (Han) Chinese? (2) How did China transition from a multi-ethnic empire to a modern nation state? (3) What does modernity mean in the Chinese context? Aside from these specific objectives, this course will also teach students to analyze written and visual texts found in various genres. No prior knowledge of Chinese history, culture, or language required.