International Studies 3114-1
中国古代思想
Classical Chinese Thought
 

 

Instructor: Dr. Stephen Field

 

Office: SMB 011

Classroom: MMS 177

Office Hours: MWF 10:30-11:30    

Class hours: T2:10-3:10pm

            

The purpose of the course is to give students the opportunity to see selected passages of classical Chinese philosophy in the language of their origin. Since translations can never capture the full import of a philosophical text, by understanding how syntax and semantics combine to form meaning, it is hoped that the student will come closer to the original intent of the philosopher. No proficiency in Chinese is required for the course.
 

Textbook

Zhongguo Gudai Sixiang Rumen (available at the Trinity bookstore)

Course Requirements 

Weekly Assignment:

 

Homework: Before class each student is required to conduct a draft translation according to the annotation, and submit it by 10:30 am Tuesday. Each student should also copy his/her translation (you can email it to yourself) and bring it to class on Tuesday.

 

 

 

 

Classwork: In class, we will conduct a rigorous, detailed translation of the passage, paying special attention to classical Chinese grammar and word etymologies. After class, students will then conduct a new translation of the passage, followed by a 50-100 word commentary discussing its meaning. This assignment is due by 10:30 am Friday

 

 

Students should always submit their assignments by email (sfield@trinity.edu).
Under no circumstances will late assignments be accepted. You are allowed only one absence.

Class Schedule

Date
Topic
Text page
Jan. 21
Introduction to Classical Chinese grammar
pp.  3-5
Jan. 28
易经 Yijing
pp. 6-7
Feb. 4
论语 Lunyu 1
p. 8
Feb. 11
论语 Lunyu 5
p. 12
Feb. 18
孟子 Mengzi 1
p. 14
Feb. 25
孟子 Mengzi 2
pp. 15-16
March 4
荀子 Xunzi 1
pp. 17-18
March 18
荀子 Xunzi 2
pp. 19-20
March 25
中庸 Zhongyong
pp. 21-22
April 1
大学 Daxue
p. 23
April 8
论语 Lunyu 2
p. 9
April 15
论语 Lunyu 3
p. 10
April 22
论语 Lunyu 4
p. 11
April 29
Concluding Comments