First-Year Writing Seminar (101-8-20)

Topic

Introduction to Tibetan Literature

Instructors

Antonio Terrone
847/467-1636
1880 Campus Drive, Kresge Hall #4-439
Office Hours: times vary by quarter, please contact instructor

Meeting Info

Willard Hall B72: Tues, Thurs 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

AY26 - This course offers an introduction to the rich and multifaceted world of Tibetan literature, exploring its historical development, religious depth, and poetic imagination from the early Buddhist period to the modern era. Students will examine how Tibet's literary traditions evolved in conversation with Buddhist philosophy, ritual, and aesthetics, and how they continue to shape Tibetan identity in Chine and in exile.
Through close readings of translated texts — including classical Buddhist biographies, poetry, folk tales, and modern fiction — students will encounter the unique interplay between spirituality, storytelling, and cultural survival that defines Tibetan literary expression.

Learning Objectives

- Understand Tibetan literary traditions
- Analyze themes and philosophies
- Contextualize and compare
- Develop critical and expressive skills

Teaching Method

Lectures and discussion

Evaluation Method

Participation, response papers, in-class presentations, term paper

Class Materials (Required)

- Heruka, Tsangnyon, Life of Milarepa. PENGUIN. ISBN 13: 9780143106227

- Chogyel, Tenzin. Life of the Buddha. PENGUIN. ISBN 13: 9780143107200

- Schaeffer, Kurtis R. Himalayan Hermitess: Life of a Tibetan Buddhist Nun. OXFORD UNI PRESS.
ISBN 13: 9780195152999

Class Attributes

WCAS Writing Seminar

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Weinberg First Year Seminars are only available to first-year students.