This course explores milestones and recurrent themes in the study of Chinese scripts through the lens of linguistics, and with an eye on their import for linguistics.

We cover developments in the Chinese character script, review its influence on other writing systems, and study the impact of printing and digital revolutions.

We will also investigate alternative written modes in the sinophone world, including Chinese calligraphy, ludic writing, alphabetical orthographies and linguistic systems of transcription.

Students will gain

• hands-on knowledge in a broad spectrum of linguistic disciplines, script studies, and language education;

• expand their technical vocabulary in Chinese and in English;

• analyze academic arguments;

• compare different positions and traditions with original observations; and

• present oral and written arguments in English

On-campus course (no online or hybrid options) in the form of daily text readings, assignments, group discussions, and topicalized lectures. The language of instruction & discussion is English.

An excursion has been planned for (at least) one session.

In preparing texts, students will be expected to pool resources depending on individual backgrounds and reading skills in English and in Chinese (traditional & simplified characters and/or handwriting).

We will read texts in English and Chinese. These selections will be distributed through the Summer School.

Daily assignments and other details will be available at the course’s website at www.wiedenhof.nl/ul/sgfx24ss.htm.

Before coming to this course, please make sure to have read Jerry Norman, Chinese (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1988).