In this course we will explore with a fresh approach the most important texts of Chinese literature from the Yuan dynasty to the present day. Many of the books we will read are formerly banned; still others are works of scathing social critique. Throughout, we will focus on the relation between literature and history, asking how writers have responded to the dramatic challenges, from foreign invasion to westernization, that China has faced. All readings are in English translation. We will pay special attention in this course to developing skills in writing and composition.