Introduction to Masterpieces of Modern and Contemporary Chinese Literature (Textbook for the Pilot Program of Reforming Talent Cultivation Models and Open Education of the Ministry of Education)

Author: Qian Liqun
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-12-16
Features: "Introduction to Masterpieces of Modern and Contemporary Chinese Literature" is a selective course for undergraduate students majoring in Chinese Language and Literature in the liberal arts. It is a provincially managed course. The examination is administered by supporting teachers from Guangdong Radio and Television University. This course uses "Introduction to Masterpieces of Modern and Contemporary Chinese Literature," edited by Qian Liqun, as the primary textbook. Literary history is not the focus of this course, but it is a prerequisite for mastering it. In other words, it builds upon courses such as "Modern Chinese Literature," "Contemporary Chinese Literature," "Foreign Literature," and "Introduction to Literature" at the junior college level, as well as "Topics in Modern and Contemporary Chinese Literature" and "Topics in 20th-Century Foreign Literature" at the undergraduate level. The emphasis is on improving students' ability to appreciate and analyze literary works and providing aesthetic education. If students major in non-Chinese departments at the junior college level, they must supplement their studies with relevant courses, otherwise, it will be difficult for them to excel in this course. This course highlights two key components:
First is "Reading":
1. Focus primarily on reading the selected texts in the textbook and, according to the textbook's guidance, read the entire book, as well as other works by the authors. The more you read, the better.
2. During the initial reading, do not consult any reference materials. Read the original text directly and let your heart engage with it. Pay special attention to and cherish the impressions you gain from your reading. After repeated independent readings and forming your own ideas, then turn to necessary reference materials to inspire your thinking and broaden your reading horizons.
3. During the initial reading, focus on gaining a holistic understanding and grasp of the work. Then, based on this foundation, conduct close reading of the text (or parts of it), carefully analyzing the author's language and writing style.
4. Not only should you read silently but also be encouraged to "read aloud," allowing the emotions and rhythms of the work to emerge through your voice. If possible, some poems and short essays are best memorized. On top of reading extensively, you should also "write extensively." First, diligently keep "reading notes." Develop the habit of "writing after every reading." The format of reading notes is free: reflections after reading, analysis of excerpts, proposing different perspectives, or copying excellent phrases and sentences from the selected texts. With the right conditions and interest, you can even engage in imitative or creative writing.
"Introduction to Masterpieces of Modern and Contemporary Chinese Literature" studies the masterpieces in the history of modern and contemporary Chinese literature, thus covering a wide range of literary phenomena. Learning about modern and contemporary Chinese literary masterpieces requires familiarity with a sufficient number of authors and works, as well as basic literary knowledge, and familiarity with the current state of literary research.