First-Year Writing Seminar - Non-Western History (103-8-22)
Topic
China in the American Imagination
Instructors
Melissa A Macauley
847/491-3418
Harris Hall - Room 344
Meeting Info
University Hall 318: Tues, Thurs 3:30PM - 4:50PM
Overview of class
China has been the object of Euro-American fascination for centuries. Popular writers, scholars, journalists, filmmakers, and government officials either have upheld its traditions as worthy of Western emulation or dismissed them with profound disdain or anxiety. American depictions of China over the last one hundred years have changed in particularly dramatic ways. Writings associated with imperialism and the missionary enterprise often exuded a sentimental paternalism toward the Chinese. Anti-immigrant prejudices at home produced an abundant "yellow peril" literature. This literature changed its hue as the Cold War fostered fears of a "red menace." Many of these views were colored as much by shifting American domestic and international concerns as they were by objective changes in Chinese history. This seminar will address how and why American opinions of China have shifted so repeatedly and profoundly over the past 150 years.
Learning Objectives
To learn how to read and write critically, to marshal evidence to make a convincing point, and to write with clarity, polish, and sophistication.
Evaluation Method
short papers and longer term paper.
Class Attributes
WCAS Writing Seminar