TRVL200 Boston to Beijing: China Through the Five Senses 3cr

This course’s intention is to immerse students in the living history of China through close contacts with its ancient and contemporary
culture. Daily exposure to art, architecture and religious artifacts will broaden students’ understanding of Chinese culture while enhancing their own creative endeavors. The primary focus is the examination of both two-dimensional and three-dimensional art, within the context of China’s rapid rise on the world stage and ancient
history. We will examine the influence of rituals within the arts and crafts - specifically those of woodblock printing, calligraphy, textiles and pottery. During our travels we will visit Buddhist Temples, splendors of Imperial Courts and the idiosyncratic gardens of the aristocrats. Our sojourn through China will find us trekking through both Beijing and Dunhuang. Each of these areas is steeped in history, and their spiritual and artistic lives exemplify regional and external influences.

Prerequisites: By permission.

Travel Course