Course Description
Chinese calligraphy (书法 / 書法, shūfǎ)—the art of expressive brush writing—is one of the most esteemed and enduring artistic traditions in China. This introductory course invites students to explore calligraphy as both a classical discipline and a living art form that continues to evolve in contemporary contexts.
The course integrates technical training, historical and cultural study, and reflective practice. Students will not only gain hands-on experience with the brush and ink, but also investigate the evolving role of calligraphy in Chinese society, from antiquity to the present day. Through museum visits, interdisciplinary exploration, and individual projects, students will gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture, philosophy, and aesthetic values. A final video project allows students to reflect on their personal journey with calligraphy and document their artistic growth.
No prior knowledge of the Chinese language is required.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the origin and evolution of the Chinese writing system and learn approximately 250 essential Chinese characters.
- Recognize major historical styles of Chinese calligraphy and write standard script (楷书, kaishu) using a brush and ink.
- Reflect on how calligraphy has adapted to modernization and how technological advances have influenced its development today.
- Analyze and appreciate the aesthetic principles and visual rhythm of Chinese calligraphy.
- Demonstrate artistic growth and conceptual understanding through hands-on assignments and interdisciplinary projects.
- Develop a regular mindful calligraphy practice that fosters patience, concentration, and inner calm.
- Reflect on your personal progress, and articulate how your understanding of calligraphy has evolved over the semester.
The Cultural and Intellectual Value of Studying Calligraphy at MIT
Learning calligraphy is not only about mastering brush techniques or copying beautiful characters—it is a process of slowing down, observing with intention, and cultivating patience. At MIT, where the pace of study and research is often intense, calligraphy offers a space for stillness, focus, and reflection. Through regular practice, students become more attuned to rhythm, balance, and structure—qualities fundamental to good writing and equally valuable in analytical thinking, spatial awareness, and the disciplined mindset required in science and engineering. We encourage students to do the following:
- Set aside quiet, uninterrupted time for regular practice
- Observe your mental state while writing—are you calm or rushed? Focused or distracted?
- Review classical works not only for technique but for spirit
- Accept early challenges without frustration; progress will come through steady effort
- Approach each character not as a task, but as a conversation with tradition
As with research and innovation, calligraphy values precision, creativity, and persistence. At MIT, learning calligraphy is also a way of connecting with a living tradition that emphasizes discipline and artistry—qualities that resonate with the Institute’s values of excellence and thoughtful exploration.
Reflections on Practice
As a distinctive feature of this course, students are expected to post a brief reflection on Padlet after each class session. These reflections, written in English or Chinese, serve as a space for documenting personal experiences with calligraphy—insights gained, technical progress, challenges encountered, and emotional responses. Students are encouraged to include text, images of their practice, or a combination of both. This reflective practice fosters mindfulness, self-assessment, and peer engagement, allowing students to track their growth over time and build a deeper connection with the art of Chinese calligraphy.
Grading
All grades will be recorded on Canvas. This course is not graded on a curve. If you have questions about your grades, please contact the instructor directly.
Percentage Grade Scale:
- A = 93.4–100
- A− = 90–93.3
- B+ = 86.7–89.9
- B = 83.4–86.6
- B− = 80–83.3
- C+ = 76.7–79.9
- C = 73.4–76.6
- C− = 70–73.3
- D+ = 66.7–69.9
- D = 63.4–66.6
- D− = 60–63.3
- F = below 60
Learning Materials
Assigned readings will be available on the course website. Selected texts include the following:
- Li, Wendan (2009). Chinese Writing and Calligraphy. University of Hawai‘i Press.
- Kubler, Cornelius C. (2017). Basic Written Chinese: An Overview of the Chinese Writing System. Tuttle Press, pp. 19–22.
- Chiang, Yee (1979). Chinese Calligraphy. Harvard University Press, selected chapters: pp. 41–53, 54–66, 67–75, 76–88, 133–149, 166–183, 206–213.
- Yen, Yueh-Ping (2005). Calligraphy and Power in Contemporary Chinese Society. Routledge, pp. 57–80.
- Ouyang, Zhongshi & Fong, Wen (2008). Chinese Calligraphy (The Culture and Civilization of China). Yale University Press.
You are also encouraged to explore the course website, where past student works and projects are showcased.
Classroom Etiquette
To cultivate a respectful, focused, and culturally immersive environment, please observe the following etiquette practices, which are especially important in the study of calligraphy:
- Remove caps during class to show respect in a traditional learning setting.
- Eating and chewing gum are not permitted, as food and ink do not mix well.
- Maintain good posture while writing—sit upright and avoid crossing your legs. Posture affects brush control and concentration.
- Write in silence. Calligraphy requires a calm, attentive atmosphere. Refrain from chatting or disrupting others’ flow.
- Present your assignments respectfully, ideally using both hands, following traditional Chinese customs of offering work with care.
- Begin emails to your instructor with “Lǎoshī hǎo” instead of casual greetings like “Hi” or “Hello,” aligning with cultural etiquette.
- Silence your phone before class.
- Clean your brushes, ink dishes, and workspace after each session. Also, wipe down your desk to leave the environment tidy for the next class.
- Bring tissues or paper towels as needed and store your materials neatly—organization reflects a disciplined calligraphy mind.
These etiquette practices are rooted in the values of Chinese calligraphy—respect, concentration, stillness, and discipline. By observing them, you honor the tradition and contribute to a mindful and collaborative learning experience.
