This syllabus was submitted to the Rhodes College Office of Academic Affairs by the course instructor.This course introduces students to one of the world’s richest literary heritages – traditional Chinese literature. It combines a general survey of Chinese literature from high antiquity up to the modern time with detailed analyses of some representative writers and their works. The materials are arranged in a chronological order roughly corresponding to the historical development of Chinese civilization. This arrangement aims at giving students an opportunity to grasp some essential information about Chinese history and culture as well. Special attention will be given to training students to read carefully and thoughtfully. Since students from Occidental backgrounds have already read a considerable amount of Western literature, they are encouraged to adopt a comparative approach and to bring their knowledge of Western culture and literature to bear on the study of this course. All readings are in English. No prior knowledge of Chinese language and culture is required.