Class Central is learner-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Shenyang University Of Technology

Decoding Chinese Culture

Shenyang University Of Technology via XuetangX

Overview

Coursera Flash Sale
40% Off Coursera Plus for 3 Months!
Grab it

Ever wondered about the wisdom behind chopsticks or the hidden meanings in red couplets? “Decoding Chinese Culture” builds a cultural bridge across languages, inviting you to explore the charm of the East. This course moves beyond tedious vocabulary lists, using English as a key to unlock China’s traditions and daily life.

You’ll learn the oriental philosophy of “harmony, respect, purity and tranquility” through a tea ceremony, feel the warmth of intangible heritage by exploring paper-cutting, and understand the significance of family reunion while discovering the story of Mid-Autumn mooncakes. From the curved eaves of the Forbidden City to the cloud patterns on Hanfu, from the timeless sayings of Confucius to the spicy aroma of hot pot, we use vivid scenarios and interesting expressions to make cultural knowledge accessible.


Taught by experienced bilingual teachers, the course combines short videos and situational simulations to help you master exclusive cultural expressions easily. Whether you’re planning a trip to China or fascinated by Eastern civilization, this course will equip you to tell Chinese stories in English and make cultural communication truly seamless.



Syllabus

  • Chapter One Mysterious Myths in China
    • 1.1 Traditionla Chinese Myth
    • 1.2 Classics of Mountains and Seas
    • 1.3 Chinese vs Western:Mythological Systems
    • 1.4 Chinese vs Western: Functions and Roles of Myths
    • 1.5 Chinese vs Western: Similarities and Differences
  • Chapter Two Wisdoms and Beliefs
    • 2.1 Confucius' View on Heaven and Humanity
    • 2.2 Confucius' Teachings on "Ren" and "Li"
    • 2.3 Confucius' Educational Philosophy
    • 2.4 Taoism: Naturalness & Non-action
    • 2.5 Taoism: Non-contention
    • 2.6 Taoism: Yin & Yang
    • 2.7 Confucianism vs Taoism
    • 2.8 History of Buddhism
    • 2.9 Chinese vs Western: Traditional Cultural Values
  • Chapter Three Exchange and Communication
    • 3.1 The Origin of the Silk Road
    • 3.2 Cultural Transmissions along the Silk Road
    • 3.3 The Belt and Road Initiative: A Vision for Global Cooperation
    • 3.4 Zheng He's Voyages to the Western Seas
    • 3.5 Confucius Institutes
    • 3.6 The Open and Inclusive Spirit of Tang Dynasty
    • 3.7 Chinese vs Western: History of China's Foreign Exchanges
  • Chapter Four Folk Arts and Aesthetics
    • 4.1 Pictographic Features of Chinese Characters
    • 4.2 Oracle Bone Inscriptions
    • 4.3 The Development of Chinese Calligraphy
    • 4.4 Typical Figures of Chinese Calligraphy
    • 4.5 The Splendor of Peking Opera
    • 4.6 The Renaissance of Peking Opera
    • 4.7 Basics of Chinese Architecture
    • 4.8 Appreciation of Chinese Architecture
    • 4.9 Porcelain and Cloisonne
    • 4.10 Embroidery
    • 4.11 Chinese vs Western: Folk Arts
  • Chapter Five Splendid Customs
    • 5.1 Culinary Arts
    • 5.2 Elegant Traditional Clothing
    • 5.3 Traditions Commonly Seen in Chinese Wedding Celebrations
    • 5.4 Chinese vs Western: Tea Cultures
    • 5.5 Chinese vs Western: Customs
  • Chapter Six Profound Education Practice
    • 6.1 Traditional chinese education practice
    • 6.2 Imperial Examination System
    • 6.3 Splendid Chinese Literature
    • 6.4 Traditional Festivals In China
  • Final quiz

    Taught by

    Qin Chuyang, Tianxin Li, Linda, Qiu Li, Bella, Flora, Haiyan, and Sue

    Tags

    Reviews

    Start your review of Decoding Chinese Culture

    Never Stop Learning.

    Get personalized course recommendations, track subjects and courses with reminders, and more.

    Someone learning on their laptop while sitting on the floor.