Persecution and Revival of Religion in Modern China

In this course we will study the dramatic recent religious history of China at the end of the imperial era, moving

through late nineteenth-century criticism and reform of religion. We will explore the Republican-era government attempts to reshape

traditional religion, post-Communist Revolution suppression of religion, and the quasi-religious "cult of Mao" during

the Cultural Revolution. We will then turn to the remarkable revival and growth of religious activity since Mao's death

in 1976, investigating various communities and trends as well as the complex cultural and political dynamics

involved in this "return" to religion. Throughout, we will seek to understand both the motives behind different state

policies and the responses (and strategies) of diverse religious groups and individuals. 3 hrs. lect.