This course is available for in-person and remote (online) learning. Remote (online) and in-person students participate together in the same class.
The course examines the archaeological evidence for broad-scale cultural and social developments in China from the time of arrival of modern humans (ca. 40,000 years before present) through the Han Dynasty (202 BC-AD 220). Specific topics include: the nature of early hunting and gathering societies; the emergence of plant and animal domestication; the development of metallurgy and the roles of agriculture, technology, trade and warfare in the rise of advanced civilization during the Shang and Zhou periods; innovation and competition among the Eastern Zhou states; the significance of ancient texts; the unification of China under the First Emperor; and continuing political, intellectual and artistic achievements during the 400-year-long Han Dynasty.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
On successful completion of this course students will have the skills and knowledge to:1. Discuss major research issues in Chinese archaeology in full detail, with reference to a number of real-life examples, and in comparison to the body of global-scale research in other regions;
2. Critique the portrayals of Chinese archaeology in history in academic literature, using in-depth critical analysis of logical arguments and developing original new interpretations with independent thought;
3. Demonstrate thorough knowledge of the processes and impacts of cultural events and developments in China throughout the time-span of approximately 40,000 BC through AD 220, furthermore accounting for the varied contexts of different time periods and geographic areas within this large scope;
4. Apply this information toward independent new research of the Asia-Pacific region or cross-regionally, clarifying how the knowledge of Chinese archaeology contributes in world scholarship; and
5. Communicate the technical findings, methodologies and theories of Chinese archaeology to both specialised academic and general audiences, through effective measurable output.
Indicative Assessment
1. Participation and leadership in class and tutorial sessions (10% of total grade) (relates to Learning Outcomes 1, 2, and 3);2. A presentation of 20 minutes about an advanced and novel topic during one tutorial session (this presentation will be recorded, as is done for all lectures by the convenor)(25% of total grade) (relates to Learning Outcomes 4 and 5, based on proficiency in Learning Outcomes 1, 2, and 3);
3. A first essay of 3000 words, demonstrating advanced reading and communication skills, critical analysis, and thorough knowledge of a significant topic (30% of total grade) (relates to Learning Outcomes 4 and 5, based on proficiency in Learning Outcomes 1, 2, and 3);
4. A second essay of 3000 words, demonstrating advanced reading and communication skills, critical analysis, and thorough knowledge of a significant topic (35% of total grade) (relates to Learning Outcomes 4 and 5, based on proficiency in Learning Outcomes 1, 2, and 3)
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
The course will meet for one hour, 3 times per week. Student workload is estimated at 10 to 11 hr/week. The total workload for the course is 130 hours including in class time and independent study.Prescribed Texts
Recommended Textbooks:The following book will be extensively consulted throughout this course:
Chang, K.C. and Pingfang Xu (ed.) 2005. The Formation of Chinese Civilization: An Archaeological Perspective. New Heaven and London: Yale University and New World Press.
Other Recommended Books:
Liu, Li and Xingcan Chen. 2012. The Archaeology of China: From the Late Paleolithic to the Early Bronze Age. Cambridge University Press, New York.
Anne P. Underhill (Editor) 2013 A Companion to Chinese Archaeology. Wiley Blackwell, New York.
Preliminary Reading
A complete list of assigned weekly readings, taken from the above books and other additional sources, is provided for each the class schedule section. PDF copies of these class readings will be uploaded to Wattle site.
Assumed Knowledge
Interest in China and in archaeology; No Chinese language ability is required.Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
Commonwealth Support (CSP) Students
If you have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). More information about your student contribution amount for each course at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 14
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are a domestic graduate coursework student with a Domestic Tuition Fee (DTF) place or international student you will be required to pay course tuition fees (see below). Course tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Course fees
- Domestic fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2021 | $3630 |
- International fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2021 | $5580 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
Class summaries, if available, can be accessed by clicking on the View link for the relevant class number.
Second Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6993 | 26 Jul 2021 | 02 Aug 2021 | 14 Sep 2021 | 29 Oct 2021 | In Person | View |
