The Chinese literary tradition is exceptionally rich and diverse.  In this course we will read some of its finest examples in prose and poetry alike.   We will examine the masterpieces of Chinese fiction and poetry as literature and as historical documents that shed invaluable light on traditional Chinese lives.  We will simultaneously analyze the literary qualities of the works in question and their significance as sources that reveal hidden facets of traditional Chinese society.  Particular attention will be given to the position of women in traditional Chinese society as attested to by works of literature.