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One way to learn about the essence of a culture

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is by listening to the stories it tells.

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For those who are interested in knowing more
about Chinese culture,

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this course—Chinese Drama—will be great for you.

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We will begin with a brief introduction to Chinese history,

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to be followed by the development of performing arts in China.

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Then we will explore several important topics

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Chinese are concerned about in a traditional play called

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Injustice to Dou E, 竇娥冤,

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a zaju play written in the 13th century

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during the Yuan dynasty, i.e., the Mongol rule.

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Have you ever heard of a traditional Chinese play called

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Snow in June, 六月雪?

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This Beijing Opera, which is still performed a lot today,

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is based on Injustice to Dou E.

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This is to say the 13th-century play is still alive today!

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Through different steps of close reading, discussion, rewriting,

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article reading and video demonstration,

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we will examine the dilemma the female protagonist Dou E faces in the play

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so as to understand Chinese culture more

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and to appreciate the beauty of Yuan zaju!

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I hope you will enjoy it.