This seminar is an intensive introduction to various genres of Buddhist literature in classical Chinese, including translations of Sanskrit and Central Asian scriptures. Chinese commentaries, philosophical treatises, hagiographies, and sectarian works. It is intended for graduate students who already have some facility in classical Chinese. It will also serve as a tools and methods course, covering the basic reference works and secondary scholarship in the field of East Asian Buddhism. The content of the course will be adjusted from semester to semester to best accommodate the needs and interests of students.

An intensive introduction to research in the field of Chinese Buddhism. Topics will include: the early Chinese assimilation of Buddhism; the emergence of medieval Chinese Buddhist “schools” such as Chan, Tiantai, Pure Land, and Esoterism; the significance of the Mogao (Dunhuang) cave site and library; Song Buddhism; “popular Buddhism”; Buddhist material culture; and so on. Secondary readings will be supplemented by Chinese Buddhist materials for those who read classical Chinese. The course is intended for incoming graduate students specializing in Chinese Buddhism, as well as graduate students with a background in Buddhism, Chinese literature, East Asian history, or art history, who may not have a background in Chinese Buddhism per se. (Among other things, the course can serve as preparation for a Ph.D. qualifying exam in the area.)

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