OVERVIEW

The module aims to explore multiple aspects of contemporary China through a diachronic and multidisciplinary perspective. The analysis will focus on texts, discourses, products, and cultural phenomena, examining them in relation to the social, economic, and political context of today’s China.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The module aims to provide a solid preparation on some key phenomena related to contemporary Chinese culture, media, and society, while simultaneously developing the analytical and critical skills to understand their historical significance, current relevance, and impact both nationally and globally. By the end of the module, students will have gained an in-depth understanding of a variety of discourses, texts, and cultural and media products necessary to understand today's China. Furthermore, they will be able to contextualize, analyze, and present the content learned in a rigorous and competent manner, using appropriate terminology and effectively applying the interdisciplinary theories and tools explored throughout the module.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of the module, students will:

1. Develop specific skills in the fields of culture, media, and society in contemporary China, with particular focus on the meaning of the phenomena studied and their contexts of production and reception;

2. Demonstrate proficiency in using secondary sources essential for deepening the topics covered in class, and be able to employ scientific and academic language to express and argue their ideas in a rigorous, competent, and professional manner;

3. Acquire solid theoretical knowledge and analytical skills to critically understand the dynamics related to China’s rise as a global economic power, both in relation to its historical legacy (traditional and revolutionary) and its future challenges, placing these dynamics within the broader international context.

TEACHING METHODS

The course includes 36 hours of lectures. These are interactive and make use of (audio)visual materials. In addition, students are expected to carry out independent activities, both individually and in groups, after which they will receive constructive feedback from the module leader.

Attendance is therefore strongly recommended.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

The course covers the historical period from the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC) on October 1, 1949, to the rise to power of Xi Jinping, who became President of the PRC in 2013.

The content focuses on communicative and media phenomena—both traditional and digital—and on the narratives that have contributed and continue to contribute to the construction of the national image, both domestically and internationally.

Forms of popular and creative culture (such as art, songs, cartoons, design, television programs) will be analyzed, contextualized, and interpreted in relation to the economic, political, and social changes of the period under study.

The course will also discuss and apply theories and methodologies that help to understand contemporary China from both an academic and professional perspective, with the aim of developing interdisciplinary and transferable skills.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Materials provided by the instructor on the AulaWeb page.

Textbook:

I media cinesi. Fonti, metodi, analisi (edited by M. Caschera and N. Riva), Roma: Carocci (Autumn 2025).

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

GIOVANNA PUPPIN (President)

LESSONS

LESSONS START

Semester II, academic year 2025/2026 (lesson start: 18 February 2026; lessons end: 29 May 2026).

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

Oral exam.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Students will choose to explore a topic covered in class and, with the instructor’s approval, will be required to prepare and deliver a presentation demonstrating that they have achieved the learning objectives of the course. Further details will be provided during class and made available on the AulaWeb page.

FURTHER INFORMATION

To the students who hold a certification of specific learning disorders, disability or other educational requirements: please send an email to Prof. Puppin at the beginning of the course, in order to discuss beforehand the best teaching and exam methods that, in alignment with the intended learning objectives, will take into account your specific needs and will provide suitable compensatory tools.