110-133 Introduction to Literary Chinese

110-029 Introductory Chinese 2B or equivalent as determined by the coordinator.

This subject offers an introduction to literary Chinese (wenyan) which was the formal written language of imperial China and the foundation of modern written Chinese. A knowledge of literary Chinese is thus indispensable in attaining higher level literacy in Chinese. Literary Chinese also includes texts written in classical Chinese in antiquity. In this subject students will read selections of Chinese literature from antiquity to the Tang period. Students will develop skills in reading texts written in full-form characters and acquire a basic knowledge of the particles and syntax of literary Chinese. They will also explore the origin and meaning of Chinese proverbs and the function of wenyan in contemporary usage.

A 2-hour examination, and translations, exercises and short tests totalling 2000 words.

• J L Faurot, Gateway to the Chinese Classics: A Practical Introduction to Literary Chinese. China Books and Periodicals, 1995.
• J Montanaro, Complex and Simplified Forms of Chinese Characters. Far Eastern Publications.