Readings in Chinese Literature: The Chinese Vernacular Novel, Journey to the West

This course focuses on the vernacular novel, Journey of the West, some of its central themes, and its long history of remediation. We read a good part of the novel, investigate the biographies and histories that preceded it, and look at the films, manga, and video games based upon it. We will compare editions, illustrations, and commentaries, and trace multi-media adaptations across national boundaries. In addition, we investigate concepts crucial to Ming dynasty literature: religious practice and self-cultivation, spatial/temporal imaginations, notions of humor and festival, and concepts of the monstrous.