Taiwanese Cinema and Culture
Course Description
Summary
Taiwanese films are characterized by a distinctive human warmth, a grounded and realistic portrayal of everyday life, and a strong sense of place conveyed through natural landscapes and local settings. Many films focus on the perspectives of ordinary people, addressing social issues and expressing concern for real-life experiences. Themes often explore identity, gender, and minority communities, including LGBTQ+ narratives, while reflecting the unique artistic styles of Taiwanese directors.
Films serve as the primary medium for learning, fostering both cultural understanding and Mandarin language development. Students will expand vocabulary, improve listening and speaking skills, and participate in structured discussions, analyses, and presentations.
All Chinese learning materials will be provided free of charge.
Learning Outcomes
- By the end of the course, students will be able to:
Analyze key themes in Taiwanese cinema, including everyday life, social issues, identity, gender, and minority experiences
Understand the cultural, historical, and social contexts of Taiwan as depicted in films
Recognize and describe the distinctive artistic styles of Taiwanese directors
Develop Mandarin vocabulary and improve listening and speaking skills through authentic film dialogues
Communicate interpretations, analyses, and personal reflections in Mandarin, both orally and in writing
Engage critically with films as cultural texts that reflect Taiwanese society and values
Prerequisites
At least 3 terms College levels
Please contact the faculty member : glin@bennington.edu
Cross List
- Advancement of Public Action
- Art History
- Cultural Studies and Languages
- Dance
- Film & Video
- History
- Media Arts
- Music Performance
- Political Economy
- Politics
- Society, Culture, & Thought