Literature of the Second Decade of Modern Chinese Literature

Study Notes

Literature of the Second Decade of Modern Chinese Literature

In the second decade of the 20th century, Chinese literature experienced a period of remarkable growth and transformation, marked by evolving literary movements and the emergence of new voices. This era, stretching from 1921 to 1931, witnessed the rise of left-wing literature, which would deeply shape the course of Chinese literature for decades to come.

Literary Movements and Societies

During this period, Chinese literature was influenced by several literary movements, among them:

Cultural Enlightenment (Huangming Hua) This movement, which began in the early 1920s, was characterized by an emphasis on literary reform, social criticism, and modernization. Major figures in this movement included Hu Shi, Lu Xun, and Guo Moruo.
Left-Wing Literature (Suiti Wenxue) Left-wing literature was a response to the social and political upheavals of the time, with writers seeking to address issues such as class struggle, labor reform, and the fight against imperialism. Major left-wing movements and societies included the League of Left-Wing Writers (Sujiaren), the New People's Study Society (Xinmin Xuehui), and the League of Chinese Students and Youths (Zhonghua Qiaotu Qingnian Lianhehui).
Proletarian Literature (Wuchan Wenxue) Proletarian literature, which arose in the late 1920s, was a subcategory of left-wing literature, with an explicit focus on the working class and their struggles. Major proletarian writers included Mao Dun, Ding Ling, and Qian Zhongshu.

Lao She

One of the most prominent figures of the era was Lao She (Shu Qingchun), a literary giant known for his portrayals of urban life, particularly that of Beijing. Lao She was born in 1899 and educated in Japan, where he gained exposure to Western literature and ideas. His most famous works, including "Camphor" (1932), "Rickshaw Boy" (1934), and "Teahouse" (1940), illustrate the lives of ordinary Beijing citizens, focusing on themes such as alienation, dislocation, and social change. These works also contribute to the rich tapestry of Chinese literature, providing an indelible portrait of early 20th-century Chinese society.

Left-Wing Literature

Left-wing literature, with its focus on social and political issues, dominated the literary landscape of the second decade of modern Chinese literature. The League of Left-Wing Writers was formed in 1930, with the objective of promoting left-wing literature and mobilizing writers in the fight against imperialism and feudalism. Despite its short-lived existence, the League played a significant role in the literary history of the period.

The League's literary activities were centered around magazines such as "New Youth" (Xin Qingnian) and "Literary Monthly" (Wenxue Yuebao), which they edited and published. These magazines provided a platform for left-wing writers to express their ideas and views, often sparking controversy and debate.

Conclusion

The second decade of modern Chinese literature not only marked the transformation and evolution of Chinese literature but also shaped its future course. This era saw the rise of literary movements such as Cultural Enlightenment, Left-Wing Literature, and Proletarian Literature, all of which contributed to the rich tapestry of Chinese literature. The works of authors such as Lao She continue to captivate and inform readers, offering valuable insights into 20th-century Chinese society.

Description

Explore the literary movements, key figures, and societal impact of the second decade of modern Chinese literature, spanning from 1921 to 1931. Learn about influential literary societies and authors like Lao She, as well as the rise of left-wing literature and its lasting influence on Chinese literary history.