HONORS 211:
The World of Chinese-character based Writing Systems
Taught by Zev Handel
Winter 2011
This course examines the use of Chinese characters in spoken and written languages of various Asian countries, such as China, Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. We explored the relationship between spoken (linguistic features) and written language. We also discussed the requirements of creating an universal language and the potential of using Chinese characters as the universal language.
I have taken over 45 classes at the UW, ranging from biochemistry to human trafficking, and this class was by far my most favorite class. Zev Handel loves what he teaches and he is very good at it. His lectures were succinct, clear, and flexible for us to discuss topics that were outside the scope of the course.
My final paper is about the methods in which Chinese characters have been adapted over time to write the Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Vietnamese language, highlighting the developments and techniques in common to all four languages, and noting distinctive differences.
I have taken over 45 classes at the UW, ranging from biochemistry to human trafficking, and this class was by far my most favorite class. Zev Handel loves what he teaches and he is very good at it. His lectures were succinct, clear, and flexible for us to discuss topics that were outside the scope of the course.
My final paper is about the methods in which Chinese characters have been adapted over time to write the Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Vietnamese language, highlighting the developments and techniques in common to all four languages, and noting distinctive differences.