CHINESE CLASSICAL LITERATURE STUDIES
In today’s high-tech era, choosing to study Classical Literature might seem unconventional to some. Yet, it is precisely the timeless wisdom, depth, and vitality of classical texts that offer a solid foundation for understanding culture, humanity, and history. So, what exactly is Classical Literature? And who is best suited to pursue this field of study in China — the cradle of Eastern civilization?
Program Overview
Chinese Classical Literature Studies is a specialized field that focuses on the study of literary heritage from ancient to pre-modern times, including poetry, prose, fiction, drama, and classical philosophical texts.
This discipline not only emphasizes the interpretation and analysis of content, but also delves into the historical, ideological, cultural, and linguistic contexts in which the works were created. Students engage with original texts and learn methods of textual criticism, translation, and annotation, gaining a deep understanding of the intellectual and artistic value of classical literature as well as its lasting impact on national culture.
Classical literature serves as a vital foundation for the preservation and promotion of cultural identity and provides strong academic support for careers in education, research, publishing, and heritage conservation.
Educational Objectives
The program aims to cultivate high-level professionals with firm political convictions, a strong sense of cultural heritage, solid theoretical and professional knowledge in classical literature, and independent research capabilities. Graduates are prepared for careers in universities, research institutions, publishing, government agencies, and primary or secondary education.
Graduation Requirements
- Professional Competence: Mastery of fundamental theories and research methods in classical literature, with interdisciplinary awareness.
- Research Ability: Independent thinking and innovation, capable of completing research projects independently.
- Foreign Language Proficiency: Ability to read professional literature in foreign languages and write academically.
- Lifelong Learning: Awareness of self-reflection and commitment to lifelong learning.
Core Courses
Representative courses:
- Studies in Ancient Chinese Literature
- Theories and Methods of Philology
- Reading and Research of Excavated Texts
- Textual Collation and Edition Studies
- Special Topics in Classical Literature
Research Directions
- Collation and Study of Ancient Musical and Literary Texts: Focus on The Book of Songs, Yuefu, Ci, and Qu.
- Collation and Study of Excavated Texts: Emphasis on bamboo slips, silk manuscripts, and stone inscriptions.
- Collation and Study of Local Documents: Focus on local gazetteers, genealogies, and inscriptions from the Hebei and Jifu regions.
Duration and Study Mode
- Program Duration: Standard 3 years, maximum 4 years
- Study Mode: Full-time, on-campus
- Training Method: Combination of individual supervision and group mentorship, with equal emphasis on coursework and thesis research
Required Components
- Participation in academic lectures and research activities
- Proposal defense and mid-term assessment
- Educational internship or academic practice
- Academic writing and publication (encouraged)
Degree Awarded
Students who meet the university’s academic requirements will be awarded a Bachelor of Chinese Classical Literature Studies degree.
Career Prospects
Graduates may pursue careers in:
- Teaching and research at universities and institutes
- Publishing houses and classical literature research centers
- Cultural institutions, libraries, and archives
- Government departments related to culture and education
Related Majors
- Chinese Language and Literature
- Philology
- Linguistics and Applied Linguistics
- Chinese History
Top Universities Offering Chinese Classical Literature Studies Programs in China
- Peking University
- Zhejiang University
- Shaanxi Normal University
- Nanjing Normal University
