| Part IA | Core subject | Convenor: Professor Roel Sterckx FBA |
Course Description 2023-24
An introduction to the literary Chinese language. The course introduces students to basic vocabulary, syntax, and grammar of the classical period. Excursions are made into the etymology of graphs, the origins of common proverbs and set phrases as well as the intellectual world behind the selected text passages.
Guided reading of a selection of passages from the Warring States and early imperial period (5th cent. BC- 2nd cent. AD), accompanied by exercises familiarizing students with the grammar of literary Chinese. Readings include, among others, the Confucian Analects, Sunzi’s Art of War, the Mencius, Xunzi, Mozi, Zhuangzi, Book of Lord Shang and Han Feizi.
Form and Conduct
This paper is divided into three sections, all of which must be attempted. Section 1 contains passages in literary Chinese for translation into English. Section 2 contains sentences in literary Chinese for translation into English; candidates will also be asked to comment on the grammar of the sentences. Section 3 contains passages from cognate texts in English for comment.
This description is subject to change, for the latest information, students should consult the Undergraduate Handbook available on the Faculty Intranet.