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ASIA6037 Emperors and Revolutionaries: Histories of Modern China

Offered By Faculty of Asian Studies
Academic Career Graduate Coursework
Course Subject Asian Studies
Offered in Second Semester, 2009
Unit Value 6 units
Course Description This course explores the transformations in Chinese society and culture from the Qing dynasty (1644-1911) through the tumultuous period of the early Republic (1911-1949). It aims to introduce students to key concepts in the analysis of modern Chinese history while developing the understanding of main events that led to the development of the contemporary Chinese states. Major issues include: the internal tensions developing within the prosperous Qing state, the impact of European expansion on China's stability, the urban intellectuals? attempts at reform, the rising influence of the youth voice, and the emancipation of women. The main historiographical theme is the exploration of the 'ownership' of history (e.g. tensions between nationalist and communist versions of history, Chinese and Western histories, and imperial and republican notions of the past). English is the language for instruction and for all readings.
Learning Outcomes Knowledge of key issues in modern Chinese history

 · Understand key concepts in Chiense Studies and Chinese History

· Acquire a different cultural perspective from which to view oneself, one's culture and one's society
· Integrate theoretical knowledge with empirical example
· Learn to engage with the ideas and perspectives of other learners

· Learn to think critically

· Learn analytic skills for developing and defending an argument

· Develop skills in synthesising and contextualizing new information

· Develop an ability to work in cooperative groups on key issues in Chinese Studies and communicate findings to other course members
Indicative Assessment 20% tutorial presentation, 40% mid-semester essay (4000 words), 40%
final exam.
Workload

Students can expect to spend 10 hours per week on this course, inclusive of class contact (3 contact hrs :2 lectures and 1 tute).

Course Classification(s) AdvancedAdvanced courses are designed for students having reached 'first degree' level of assumed knowledge, which provide a deep understanding of contemporary issues; or 'second degree' and higher levels of knowledge; or for transition to research training programs.
Areas of Interest Non Language Asian Studies
Requisite Statement Two ASIA, HIST or POLS coded courses (12 units), or permission of coordinator.
Prescribed Texts Spence, J., The Search for Modern China, New York: Norton, 1999 (2 vols: Documentary Sources and Readings)Supplementary text: Hsu, I., The Rise of Modern China, Oxford University Press, 1999
Programs Master of Asia-Pacific Studies
Other Information

Delivery Mode:

On Campus

Academic Contact Professor K. Louie

The information published on the Study at ANU 2009 website applies to the 2009 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2008 website.

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