Prospectus

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Political language and discourse in Modern China

Course
2008-2009

This course deals with key political concepts and terms, and analyses their usage in the political discourse of the People’s Republic of China, from the foundation of the PRC to the present. Students will be introduced to the basic ideas of discourse theory and to the methodological approach of discourse analysis, as well as to the use of rhetoric and specific vocabulary in Chinese political communication during various stages of PRC history.

Timetable

First semester, two hours per week. See timetable for time and location.

Method of Instruction

Seminar

Course objectives

Students are expected to acquire the following knowledge:

the ability to apply the theoretical and methodological implications of discourse analysis to Chinese texts,
an understanding of basic socialist terminology,
an understanding of the rhetoric in Chinese political writings.
an understanding of Chinese political language characteristics during different phases of PRC history.

The course will provide the necessary background knowledge for the pursuit of BA3 and MA courses on Chinese politics.

Required reading

The recommended and required literature will be discussed during the first lesson of the course.

Examination

In order to pass this course, it is mandatory for students to each give a short presentation, and to pass a final written examination. The detailed assessment criteria will be provided in class. The final grade will be composed as follows:
presentation (40%)
written exam (60%)

Attendance is obligatory

Information

For further information about the content of this course, please contact the teacher, F.A. Schneider.

Enrollment
Enroll in time for this course via U-twist. Questions about enrollment via U-twist? Please contact studentadministration ( c.j.gallacher@let.leidenuniv.nl) or the secretariat ( secrchin@let.leidenuniv.nl).

Blackboard/webpage

Blackboard is used to provide course information and teaching material.
Procedure:
For enrollment, visit the website Blackboard (http://www.blackboard.leidenuniv.nl/). Then click on: courses > Faculteit der Letteren > China, Talen en Culturen van > 2008-2009 > Registreer/enroll.

Entry requirements

BA2-college ‘Modern Chinees II: lezen en schrijven’