How to Read Chinese Drama: A Guided Anthology

This book provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the literary forms and cultural significance of Chinese drama, offering critical analysis of canonical and less frequently studied works and their historical contexts. It is written for undergraduate students and their instructors, as well as a wider audience interested in world theater, and includes bilingual excerpts, questions, and pedagogical resources for exploring Chinese theater.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 480 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2022
Publisher: Columbia University Press

This captivating book serves as an all-encompassing and enticing gateway into the world of Chinese drama, encompassing its literary forms and cultural significance as both textual and performative art. Within its pages, readers are offered an accessible and critical exploration of a diverse range of plays, both canonical and lesser-known, while also delving into their historical contexts.

How to Read Chinese Drama delves into the intricate tapestry of Chinese drama, shedding light on its various genres, staging techniques, musical performances, audience engagement, and political resonances. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of chapters, showcasing how each play contributes to the broader tradition of dramatic art.

Written with a clear and concise style, this book is designed to appeal to undergraduate students and their instructors, as well as a broader audience interested in global theater. It includes bilingual excerpts to aid students of Chinese literature and language, as well as thoughtful questions and resources for further exploration.

For teachers, the book offers an analytical table of contents, a theater-specific chronology of events, and comprehensive lists of visual resources and translations. These pedagogical tools facilitate the integration of Chinese theater into broader cultural and comparative contexts, enriching the learning experience for students.

Furthermore, How to Read Chinese Drama serves as a valuable resource for theater practitioners, providing in-depth readings of significant plays accompanied by background information on historical performance conventions, audience responses, and select modern adaptations. It empowers practitioners to deepen their understanding and appreciation of Chinese drama, fostering a deeper connection between the past and the present.

In conclusion, this comprehensive and engaging book offers a profound exploration of Chinese drama, providing readers with a rich and immersive experience of its literary forms, cultural significance, and historical contexts. Whether you are a student, teacher, or theater practitioner, How to Read Chinese Drama is a valuable companion that will enhance your understanding and appreciation of this captivating art form.

Weight: 1212g
Dimension: 216 x 279 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231186490