Literature from 1928-1937 in China

Study Notes

Literature from 1928-1937: A Decade of Transformation

The era spanning from 1928 to 1937 witnessed both the blossoming of literary movements and the emergence of significant authors in China, particularly in the realm of prose and drama. This period was marked by a quest for identity, social change, and artistic expression, often intertwined with political turmoil and societal upheaval.

Literary Movements and Societies

The 1930s in China saw the rise of several literary movements and societies, each with its distinct focus and ideology.

Left-wing literature: This movement was a response to the political climate of the time, which saw a rise in left-wing ideas and a push for social change. Authors embraced this movement to explore the inequalities and injustices of society, often aligning themselves with left-wing political parties.
Crescent Moon Society: Founded in 1927, this literary society aimed to promote realism in literature, particularly focusing on the struggles of ordinary people. Members included Mao Dun, Zhou Libo, and Wen Yiduo.
Lu Xun Creation Society: Established in 1931, this society was named after the renowned writer Lu Xun and focused on producing social realist fiction and drama.

Authors: 老舍 (Lao She)

Lao She (1899-1966), born as Shu Qingchun, was a prolific author, playwright, and dramatist whose works often criticized social issues and examined the human condition. During the 1928-1937 period, Lao She emerged as a prominent figure in the Chinese literary landscape with his seminal works.

Camphor: Published in 1933, this novel is a scathing critique of the social and moral decay in Chinese society, particularly in Beijing.
The Rickshaw: This play, also published in 1933, is a searing indictment of the inequality and inhumane treatment of rickshaw pullers, exposing the harsh realities of urban life in China during the 1930s.

Authors: Left-wing literature

In addition to Lao She's contributions, several other authors emerged during this period, offering nuanced and critical perspectives on society and politics through left-wing literature.

Mao Dun (Shen Yanbing): A prominent figure in left-wing literature, Mao Dun's works often explored social issues and the struggles of ordinary people. His most famous works from this period include "Spring Silkworms" (1931) and "Midnight" (1933).
Zhou Libo: Known for his naturalistic writing style, Zhou Libo's works often critiqued the social inequalities of the time. His most notable works from the 1930s include "The Blind Musician" (1931) and "The Road" (1932).
Wang Shiwei: One of the earliest advocates of left-wing literature, Wang Shiwei's works often explored the contradictions of Chinese society and the struggles of factory workers. His most notable works from the 1930s include "The House of Diesel" (1936) and "The Turmoil" (1937).

Conclusion

The decade from 1928 to 1937 was a period of profound change and exploration in Chinese literature, with the rise of literary movements and societies, and the emergence of several prominent authors, including 老舍 (Lao She) and those affiliated with left-wing literature. Their works critiqued the social and political climate of the time, offering insights into the struggles of ordinary people and the quest for a better society. As a result of these efforts, the 1930s in China are remembered as a pivotal period in the development of modern Chinese literature.

Description

Explore the literary movements, societies, and prominent authors that shaped Chinese literature from 1928 to 1937. Learn about left-wing literature, the Crescent Moon Society, Lu Xun Creation Society, and influential authors like Lao She, Mao Dun, Zhou Libo, and Wang Shiwei.