FutureLearn

Discover Chinese Drama: Understanding 'The Injustice to Dou E' (FutureLearn)

Offered by National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), National Chengchi University (NCCU),

Explore the origins and development of Chinese drama in this course examining the classic play 'The Injustice to Dou E'. Explore the wonders of Chinese literature in the time of the Yuan dynasty. Chinese drama is a brilliant crystalisation of Chinese performing arts, and ‘The Injustice to Dou E’ is one of the genre’s greatest examples.

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This thirteenth-century play remains a much-quoted classic in China, and – with its startlingly realistic portrayal of injustice in the Yuan dynasty – still captivates modern audiences.
On this course, you’ll study the history and development of Chinese drama, learning how to define and analyse Zaju opera, and ultimately closely examine the famous play itself.
Our educators will irregularly join the discussion with you, but, of course, at every step in this course, you are invited to share your ideas with us and other fellow learners.

What topics will you cover?

The History and Definition of Chinese Drama
Development of Chinese Drama
The Characteristics of Yuan Zaju
Characters and Plot of Yuan Zaju
The Plot of The Injustice to Dou E

Learning on this course
You can take this self-guided course and learn at your own pace. On every step of the course you can meet other learners, share your ideas and join in with active discussions in the comments.
What will you achieve?
By the end of the course, you‘ll be able to...

Reflect on the meaning of justice through the study of Injustice to Dou E
Explore the historical background of Yuan Zaju
Compare the idea of justice of ancient China and other countries

Who is the course for?
This course is for anyone wishing to know more about the developlent of Chinese drama, the history of the Yuan period, or explore the performance of Zaju.

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