史記 (Shi Ji)

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/shiji

Introduction

### Course Review: 史記 (Shi Ji) **Introduction** In a world saturated with rapid-fire content and fleeting information, the Coursera course "史記 (Shi Ji)" offers a refreshing dive into one of China's most significant historical texts, the *Records of the Grand Historian*. With its unique focus on slow, careful exploration, this course is a deep intellectual journey into the essence of historical scholarship. Whether you are a history buff, a lover of Chinese culture, or simply curious about the wisdom embedded in ancient texts, this course promises a rich educational experience. **Course Overview** The *Shi Ji* course is designed to guide students through the philosophical and historiographical themes of the text. The course embraces a "slow cooking" methodology, allowing participants to savor ancient wisdom and delve into the deeper meanings lying behind the words of ancient sages. The syllabus consists of lectures that unpack the text's numerous layers, promoting critical thinking and an appreciation for the context in which this seminal work was written. The course is particularly well-suited for those interested in traditional Chinese historiography, ethical reasoning, and the life and works of Sima Qian, its author. By offering structured readings and thought-provoking themes for each lecture, it aims to help students not only understand the *Shi Ji* but also how to approach and analyze Chinese historical texts in general. **Detailed Syllabus Review** 1. **Introduction and Sima Qian's Preface (Part One)**: The discussion begins with the concept of responsibility, setting the stage for understanding the moral weight of historians. 2. **Sima Qian's Preface (Part Two)**: This lecture expands on the idea of anticipation for future sages and highlights the legacy of historical scholarship. 3. **Letter to Ren Shaoqing (Part One)**: An analysis of the rhetorical questions posed by Sima Qian, prompting students to ponder the audience of historical writing. 4. **Letter to Ren Shaoqing (Part Two)**: Continuing from the previous lecture, this session examines Sima Qian's personal reflections and challenges, weaving in the theme of resilience. 5. **Records of the Five Emperors**: Here, students engage with the topic of learning and understanding intent, emphasizing the importance of introspection in historical studies. 6. **The Family of Wu Taibo**: This discussion focuses on the intersection of morality and success, a critical theme within the broader context of Chinese history. 7. **Biographies of Bo Yi**: This final lecture tackles profound philosophical questions regarding destiny and ethical dilemmas, pushing students to critically evaluate historical narratives. **Who Should Take This Course?** The *Shi Ji* course caters to a wide audience: - **Chinese Culture Enthusiasts**: Gain insights into the heart of ancient Chinese civilization. - **Students of History**: Deepen your understanding of historiography and the evolution of historical thought in China. - **Analytical Thinkers**: Engage with philosophical questions that are relevant not only to the past but also to contemporary issues. - **Fans of Sima Qian**: Explore the nuances of his work and his significant impact on Chinese literature and philosophy. **Conclusion and Recommendation** This course on Coursera is an invitation to embark on a thoughtful journey into historical scholarship through the lens of the *Shi Ji*. By focusing not just on the events chronicled in the text but on the very art of reading and interpreting history, it empowers students to cultivate a deeper understanding and appreciation of Chinese literature and thought. I wholeheartedly recommend this course to anyone interested in a meaningful exploration of historic texts or those eager to engage thoughtfully with the complexities of human history. Enroll in the *史記 (Shi Ji)* course and enrich your understanding of a pivotal work that continues to influence culture and scholarship today.

Syllabus

第一講 導論與太史公自序（一）（主題：什麼是責任？）