The colourful Chinese theatrical tradition goes back a millenium to the Mongol Dynasty (12th-13th century AD). It has produced many literary masterpieces (The Western Chamber, The Peony Pavilion), and an extraordinary stylised performance tradition that has survived to the present day (Peking Opera, Kunqu). Kunqu Theatre has recently been inscribed in the UN list of world intangible heritage sites. The basic aesthetic of Chinese Theatre is informed by the same basic ideas that underly Chinese poetry, art, calligraphy and philosophy.

This is a middle level non-language course designed to introduce students across the university to the literary and aesthetic foundations of traditional Chinese lyric drama/opera. The course serves the following objectives. 

First, it builds on the existing strands in our programme, offering Chinese literature for non-language students (we already have Fiction, and Poetry). 

Second, it provides students with an insight into the working world of the Chinese opera performer, delivering a classical repertoire in a modern context.

Third, it provides an introduction to the fundamentals of traditional Chinese aesthetics. (It is envisaged eventually that we may have further courses in Chinese Art, Chinese Calligraphy, and possibly Chinese Garden and Landscape Design).

Proposed course structure is as follows:

First 4 weeks: Introduction to the classic literature and practice of Chinese drama, from the Yuan, Ming and Qing periods. 

Middle 4 weeks: Aesthetics of Chinese theatrical performance art, including movement, singing and make-up.

Last 5 weeks: Readings in the literature, and further viewings of performances.