Prospectus

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Political language and discourse in Modern China

Course
2009-2010

Description

This course deals with key political concepts and terms, and analyses their usage in the political discourse of the People’s Republic of China. Students will be introduced to the basic ideas of discourse analysis, as well as to the use of rhetoric and specific vocabulary in Chinese political communication.

Teaching method

Seminar

Admission requirements

A good command of standard Chinese is required for the reading of Chinese primary sources.

Former participation in the BA2 course “Government and Politics of Modern China” is recommended, but not required. Students with no previous exposure to political and discourse analysis will be able to acquire the necessary knowledge throughout the course.

Course objectives

Participants in this course will acquire the following:

  • The ability to apply discourse analysis to Chinese texts.

  • An understanding of basic socialist terminology.

  • A grasp of the rhetoric in Chinese political writings.

  • An understanding of Chinese political language characteristics.

Required reading

Reading assignments as well as primary sources will be announced on blackboard. The following general reading is recommended:
Fairclough, Norman (1995), Critical Discourse Analysis, Harlow: Longman / Pearson Education.

Assessment

  • Regular course assignments (40% of final mark).

  • Final written examination, consisting of open questions and a translation assignment (60% of final mark).
    Regular, punctual attendance, thorough preparation of reading material, and continuous course participation are also expected.

Time table

Check the departmental website for time and location.

Contact

For questions or additional information please contact your study coordinator, or the instructor:
T.W. Ngo
Office Location: Arsenaal 016
Email: t.w.ngo@hum.leidenuniv.nl
Phone: +31 (0)71 527-2728

Registration

Through U-TWIST (see ‘Aanmeldprocedures voor colleges en tentamens’ – in Dutch)

Blackboard

The module will make use of blackboard for course communication, general course proceedings, and information on reading material as well as assessment criteria.

Remarks

None