1. Use a double spaced 12-point Times/Times New Roman font for body with 1-inch margins.
2. Use footnotes for all citations according to the Chicago Manual of Style
Answer the following essay question, for a minimum of three pages each and maximum of 4 pages. In writing this essays, please refer specifically to class
readings, including the 2013 Third Edition of The Search for Modern China textbook. Outside readings are neither allowed nor are necessary for completing
this exercise. Plagiarism is not allowed and will result in a failing grade.
Essay Prompt
On page 499 of SFMC, Spence mentions a quote by a minority group member in China that reads “A rock does not make a good pillow, nor a Han Chinese a
friend.” Using the course readings by Frank Dikötter, Dru Gladney, and Evan Osnos, combined with references to class lectures and the film “Tibet: Cry of the
Snow Lion,” explain the meaning of this quote, and in doing so describe 1) The history of minority relations in China described by Dikotter and Spence; 2) The
manner in which minority groups are depicted in China, as described by Gladney; and finally, using Tibet as a case study, 3) Examine the nature of the
transition from tribute-trade system state to regional minority region in China. Refer to class lectures and readings by Fairbank on the tribute-trade system
from week 1 for additional references in formulating your answer to these questions.
In assessing this essay, the following criteria is critical to keep in mind when developing your essays, and will constitute a rubric for grading these essays:
1) What is the main thesis of the essay? This should be clearly stated in the first paragraph.
2) What are the main points used to support this thesis? Provide concrete examples and judiciously use selected quotes from the readings. Back up all
assertions with evidence.
3) What conclusion is reached by considering this evidence? What does it say about Chinese history?
4) The best essays show strong control over the readings and make them speak to each other.
5) Do not use “I” statements in the essay, and refrain from casual language or passive voice.
SFMC (Pdf attached): You can reference any part of this book.
Frank Dikotter (Pdf attached): Pages 12-33
Dru Gladney (Pdf attached): pages 92-123
Evan Osnos (Pdf attached): Chapters 2, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 19.
Fairbank (Pdf attached): Pages 1-19
Tibet Cry of the Snow Lion: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bd899EylLoU&ab_channel=G.DerrickHodge