This course will focus on the historical and cultural background, literary aesthetics, music, and performance of Kunqu, China’s classical opera. After viewing the lecture videos presented by scholars and renowned maestros in the field of Kunqu, students’ understanding and appreciation of Chinese performing arts, classical literature and traditional culture will be enhanced.
1.3. The socio-historical background of Kunqu in 16th- and 17th-century China
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From the course by The Chinese University of Hong Kong
The Beauty of Kunqu Opera
The Chinese University of Hong Kong
From the lesson
An Introduction to the Beauty of Kunqu Opera
Welcome to The Beauty of Kunqu Opera! The following lecture videos will give you some ideas of the historical background and characteristics of Kunqu, China’s classical opera that originated more than 600 years ago and blossomed during the late Ming and early Qing dynasties (around 16th – 17th centuries). The introduction is followed by excerpts and analysis of The Peony Pavilion, Kunqu’s masterpiece. The poetic artistry shown in the arias, dialogues and dance movement of the characters exemplifies the aesthetic achievement of Kunqu.
Meet the Instructors
Prof. Wei Hua 華瑋Professor and Division Head
Department of Chinese Language and Literature
Prof. Kenneth Hsien-yung Pai 白先勇Wei Lun Professor of Humanities
Faculty of Arts
Prof. Lindy Li Mark 李林德Professor Emerita
Anthropology
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