110-443 Chinese Religion and Ritual

Formerly available as 110-058. Students who have completed 110-058 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

110-163 Introductory Chinese 3B, 110-040 Chinese 2B or 110-123 Standard Chinese 2B or equivalent and/or admission to the postgraduate diploma or fourth-year honours in Chinese.

This subject is a survey of the rich and variegated religious landscape of China, encompassing the doctrinal traditions of Taoism and Buddhism as well as sectarian and local cults. The importance of ritual as an organising principle in Chinese society and culture will be investigated through examination of the imperial cults and the highly evolved ritual forms of classical and popular Taoism. The significance of the contemporary revival of ritual activity in China will be explored, as will the evidence for the continued existence of a 'shamanic substratum' in Chinese culture.

• acquire written communication skills through essay writing and seminar discussion;

• show attention to detail through essay preparation and writing;

• acquire time management and planning skills through managing and organising workloads for recommended reading, essay and assignment completion.

A synopsis of 400 words for 3rd year and 500 words for 4th year 10% (due in the second week of semester), a short essay of 800 words for 3rd year and 1000 words for 4th year 20% (due mid-semester), a commentary of 800 words for 3rd year and 1000 words for 4th year 20% (due late semester) and a project of 2000 words for 3rd year and 2500 words for 4th year 50% (due in the final week of semester).

Materials supplied by the Institute.