Chinese Literature Student Copy PDF

Chinese Literature Historical Development of Chinese Literature Chinese literature has a long and rich history that dates back thousands of years. It is one of the oldest and most influential literary traditions in the world. The history of Chinese literature can be traced back to the Sha...

Chinese Literature Historical Development of Chinese Literature Chinese literature has a long and rich history that dates back thousands of years. It is one of the oldest and most influential literary traditions in the world. The history of Chinese literature can be traced back to the Shang Dynasty (1600-1046 BCE), when the earliest known examples of Chinese writing were discovered on oracle bones. These inscriptions, which were used for divination purposes, provide valuable insights into the beliefs, customs, and daily life of the ancient Chinese. Historical Development of Chinese Literature Over the centuries, Chinese literature has evolved and flourished, encompassing a wide range of genres and styles. From classical poetry and historical records to novels and plays, Chinese literature reflects the diverse cultural, social, and political landscape of China. It has been shaped by various dynasties, philosophical schools, and literary movements, each leaving its mark on the literary tradition. Historical Development of Chinese Literature Chinese literature has had a profound impact on world literature. Its influence can be seen in the works of writers from different cultures and time periods. The themes and motifs found in Chinese literature, such as love, nature, and the pursuit of wisdom, are universal and resonate with readers around the world. Moreover, Chinese literature has provided valuable insights into Chinese history, culture, and society, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of China and its people. Historical Development of Chinese Literature Early Chinese literature dated from the Hundred Schools of Thought that occurred during the Eastern Zhou dynasty (770– 256 BC). The Confucian works in particular have been of key importance to Chinese culture and history, as a set of works known as the Four Books and Five Classics. *Five Classics : Classic Poetry *Four Books: Analects of Confucius The classical poetry of China: Tang Dynasty and Song Dynasty poets.  Notable Poets of Tang Dynasty Notable Poets of Song Dynasty -Wang Wei -Fan Chengda -Bai Juyi -Fan Zhongyan -Cao Song -Jiang Kui -Du Fu -Kou Zhun -Du Mu -Liu Yong -Jia Dao -Lu You -Li Bai -Ouyang Xiu -Li He -Sima Guang -Li Shangyin -Su Zhe -Liu Changqing -Wang Anshi -Liu Yuxi -Wang Yisun Sample classical Chinese poetry: https://mandarinmatrix.org/famous-chinese-poems/ “Thoughts in the Silent Night” by Li Bai “An Ode to the Goose” by Luo Binwang “Farewell To Vice-Prefect Du Setting Out For His Official Post In Shu” by Wang Bo “Farewell to A Friend” by Li Bai “Farewell” by Wang Wei “I Climb the Western Tower in Silence” by Li Yu “On Parting” by Du Mu “Song of River City” by Su Shi “Butterflies in Love with Flowers” by Liu Yong “Rouge Lips · She Jumps Off the Swing” by Li Qingzhao “Song of Divination” by Li Zhi Yi Classical prose Early Chinese prose was deeply influenced by the great philosophical writings of the Hundred Schools of Thought (770–221 BC). During the Tang period, the ornate, artificial style of prose developed in previous periods was replaced by a simple, direct, and forceful prose. The Song dynasty saw the rise in popularity of "travel record literature." Modern Chinese Literature Scholars tend to agree that modern Chinese literature did not erupt suddenly in the New Culture Movement (1910s–1920s). Instead, they trace its origins back at least to the late Qing period (1895– 1911) and at most to the 17th century. Late Qing (1895–1911) Republican Era (1912–49) Maoist Era (1949–76) Cultural Revolution Era (1976-1978) Opening and reform (1978–1989 Post-Tiananmen (1989–present)  Activity 2: The Chinese Classical Poets and Prose Writers; Modern Chinese Literature 1. List at least 5 notable classical 3. Give at least 2 notable modern Chinese writers during: poets and their works. a)Late Qing (1895–1911) 2. List at least 5 notable prose b)Republican Era (1912–49) writers and their works during: c)Maoist Era (1949–76) d)Cultural Revolution Era a) Tang and Song Dynasty (1976-1978) b) Ming Dynasty e)Opening and reform (1978– 1989 c) Qing Dynasty f) Post-Tiananmen (1989– present) Notable Contemporary Chinese Writers Lu Xun Lu Xun is widely regarded as the father of modern Chinese literature. Born in 1881 in Shaoxing, Zhejiang province, Lu Xun played a pivotal role in shaping the course of modern Chinese literature through his writings and activism. He is best known for his short stories, which are characterized by their realism, social criticism, and psychological depth Lu Xun’s works often depicted the harsh realities of life in early 20th century China, including poverty, corruption, and social inequality. His stories, such as “The True Story of Ah Q” and “Diary of a Madman” exposed the flaws and contradictions of Chinese society, challenging traditional values and beliefs. Through his writings, Lu Xun sought to awaken the Chinese people to the need for social and political change. Lu Xun’s impact on modern Chinese literature cannot be overstated. His works inspired a generation of writers and intellectuals, who followed in his footsteps and continued to explore themes of social criticism and political activism. Lu Xun’s legacy can be seen in the works of contemporary Chinese writers, who continue to grapple with the complexities of modern Chinese society. Notable Contemporary Chinese Writers Cao Xueqin  Dream of the Red Chamber, also known as “The Story of the Stone," is widely regarded as one of the greatest works of Chinese literature. Written by Cao Xueqin in the 18th century during the Qing Dynasty, it is a sprawling novel that tells the story of the decline and fall of a noble family in Beijing.  The novel is renowned for its complex characters, intricate plot, and lyrical prose. It explores themes such as love, fate, and the transience of life, while also providing a vivid portrayal of 18th century Chinese society. “Dream of the Red Chamber” is not only a work of great literary merit, but also a valuable historical document that offers insights into the customs, traditions, and social hierarchy of imperial China.  The significance of “Dream of the Red Chamber” in Chinese literature cannot be overstated. It has had a profound influence on subsequent generations of writers and has been widely studied and analyzed by scholars. Its themes and characters continue to resonate with readers today, making it a timeless classic that stands as a testament to the enduring power of Chinese literature. Notable Contemporary Chinese Writers Mo Yan  Mo Yan is one of the most controversial and groundbreaking writers in contemporary Chinese literature. Born in 1955 in Shandong province, Mo Yan rose to prominence in the 1980s with his novel Red Sorghum, which was later adapted into a critically acclaimed film by director Zhang Yimou.  Mo Yan’s works often explore themes of history, memory, and the human condition. He is known for his vivid storytelling, richly drawn characters, and dark humor. However, his works have also been criticized for their graphic violence and explicit sexual content. Despite the controversy surrounding his works, Mo Yan has been widely recognized for his literary achievements and was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2012.  Mo Yan’s impact on Chinese literature is significant. His works have pushed the boundaries of what is considered acceptable in Chinese literature and have challenged traditional notions of literary form and content. Moreover, his success on the international stage has brought greater attention to contemporary Chinese literature and has helped to elevate the status of Chinese writers in the global literary community. Notable Contemporary Chinese Writers Bei Dao  The Cultural Revolution, which took place from 1966 to 1976, had a profound impact on Chinese literature. During this tumultuous period, many writers and intellectuals were persecuted or forced into silence. However, some writers managed to find ways to express themselves and capture the spirit of the times.  One such writer is Bei Dao, whose real name is Zhao Zhenkai. Born in Beijing in 1949, Bei Dao emerged as a prominent voice during the Cultural Revolution with his poetry that expressed a sense of disillusionment and longing for freedom. His works often used metaphor and symbolism to convey his feelings of alienation and despair.  Bei Dao’s impact on Chinese literature cannot be overstated. His poetry captured the spirit of a generation and provided a voice for those who were silenced during the Cultural Revolution. His works continue to be studied and celebrated for their artistic merit and their ability to convey the human experience in times of great turmoil. Notable Contemporary Chinese Writers Eileen Chang Eileen Chang is one of the most celebrated female writers in Chinese literature. Born in Shanghai in 1920, Chang’s works often explore themes of love, desire, and the complexities of human relationships. Her writing is characterized by its lyrical prose, psychological insight, and keen observations of social mores. Chang’s works often depict the struggles and aspirations of women in Chinese society. She was known for her strong female characters who defied societal expectations and sought to assert their independence. Her works, such as Love in a Fallen City and Lust, Caution, have been widely praised for their exploration of female desire and their nuanced portrayal of gender dynamics. Chang’s significance in Chinese literature lies not only in her literary achievements, but also in her role as a trailblazer for female writers. She broke new ground by writing about taboo subjects and challenging traditional gender roles, paving the way for future generations of female writers to explore similar themes. Notable Contemporary Chinese Writers Gao Xingjian Gao Xingjian is the first Chinese writer to be awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature. Born in 1940 in Jiangxi province, Gao is known for his experimental style and his exploration of existential themes. His works often blur the boundaries between fiction and autobiography, reality and illusion. Gao’s most famous work is “Soul Mountain,” a novel that combines travelogue, memoir, and fiction. The novel follows the protagonist’s journey through rural China as he grapples with questions of identity, spirituality, and the meaning of life. Gao’s works are characterized by their introspection, philosophical musings, and poetic language. Gao’s impact on Chinese literature is significant. His experimental style and his willingness to challenge literary conventions have inspired a new generation of writers to push the boundaries of what is considered acceptable in Chinese literature. Moreover, his international recognition has helped to raise the profile of Chinese literature on the global stage. Notable Contemporary Chinese Writers Amy Tan  Amy Tan is a prominent writer in the modern Chinese diaspora. Born in 1952 in Oakland, California, Tan explores themes of identity, family, and cultural heritage in her works. Her novels often depict the experiences of Chinese immigrants and their descendants as they navigate the complexities of living between two cultures.  Tan’s most famous work is The Joy Luck Club, a novel that tells the stories of four Chinese immigrant women and their American-born daughters. The novel explores themes such as mother-daughter relationships, the search for identity, and the power of storytelling. Tan’s works have been widely praised for their emotional depth, vivid characters, and lyrical prose.  Tan’s significance in Chinese literature lies in her ability to give voice to the experiences of Chinese immigrants and their descendants. Her works have helped to shed light on the challenges and triumphs of the Chinese diaspora, and have provided a platform for dialogue and understanding between different cultures. Notable Contemporary Chinese Writers Jin Yong  Jin Yong, whose real name is Louis Cha, is one of the most popular and influential writers in Chinese literature. Born in 1924 in Zhejiang province, Jin Yong is known for his historical fiction novels, particularly The Swordsman Series, which consists of 14 novels set in the martial arts world of ancient China.  Jin Yong’s novels are characterized by their intricate plots, colorful characters, and detailed descriptions of martial arts techniques. His works often explore themes such as loyalty, honor, and the pursuit of justice. Jin Yong’s novels have been widely read and loved by generations of readers, and have been adapted into numerous films, TV series, and video games.  The significance of Jin Yong’s works in Chinese literature cannot be overstated. His novels have not only entertained millions of readers, but have also shaped popular culture and influenced subsequent generations of writers. Jin Yong’s ability to create vivid and compelling characters and his skillful storytelling have made him a beloved figure in Chinese literature.  All of Jin Yong's novels, except White Horse Neighs in the Western Wind and Ode to Gallantry are connected, albeit weakly.  Aqing, the protagonist of the novelette "Sword of the Yue Maiden", is the ancestor of Han Xiaoying from The Legend of the Condor Heroes. Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils is a prequel; the Northern Beggar of the Five Greats, Hong Qigong succeeds Qiao Feng as the new chief of the Beggars' Gang in The Legend of the Condor Heroes and Duan Yu is the ancestor of the historical character Duan Zhixing who later becomes Reverend Yideng, another member of the Five Greats.  The Legend of the Condor Heroes, The Return of the Condor Heroes and The Heaven Sword and Dragon Saber make up the Condor Trilogy (considered by many to be Cha's magnum opus) and should be read in that order.  Dugu Qiubai's Heavy Iron Sword is used by Yang Guo and broken down to create the Heaven-Reliant Sword and the Dragon-Slaying Saber.  Guo Xiang inherits the Heaven-Reliant Sword and passes it to her successors in the Emei School. Linghu Chong from The Smiling, Proud Wanderer learns Dugu Qiubai's Nine Swords of Dugu from Feng Qingyang, a reclusive Mount Hua School swordsman. Some characters and schools from The Smiling, Proud Wanderer are mentioned in Sword Stained with Royal Blood. Notable Contemporary Chinese Writers Yu Hua Yu Hua was regarded as a promising avant-garde or post- New Wave writer.Many critics also regard him as a champion for Chinese meta-fictional or postmodernist writing. Shortly after his debut as a fiction writer in 1983, his first breakthrough came in 1987, when he released the short story "On the Road at Age Eighteen". His novels To Live (1993) and Chronicle of a Blood Merchant (1995) were widely acclaimed. While other works like Brothers (2005–06) received mixed reviews domestically, but positive reviews abroad. Yu Hua has written five novels, six collections of stories, and three collections of essays. His works have sold around a total of nine million copies and have been translated into over 20 languages. Notable Contemporary Chinese Writers Jia Pingwa  Jia Pingwa is one of China's most popular authors of novels, short stories, poetry, and non-fiction.His best-known novels include Ruined City, which was banned by the State Publishing Administration for over 17 years for its explicit sexual content, and The Shaanxi Opera, winner of the 2009 Mao Dun Literature Prize.  Despite the ban, Jia continued to write, publishing a trilogy of rural novels: White Nights (1995), Earth Gate (1996), and Old Gao Village (1998).  This was followed by the modern fable Wolves of Yesterday (2000), about a Wu Song-like hunter chasing a modern-day environmentalist who turns into a wolf, a historical romance and counter-history Heath Report (2002), and The Shaanxi Opera (2005), a challenging work incorporating elements of local Shaanxi operas which earned him the 2008 Mao Dun Literature Award.  Over the last decade, Jia has completed five additional novels: Happy (2007), Old Kiln (2011), The Lantern Bearer (2013), Lao Sheng (2014), and Jihua (2016). Notable Contemporary Chinese Writers Yang Jiang  Yang Jiang (Yang Chiang) was a Chinese playwright, author, and translator. She wrote several successful comedies, and was the first Chinese person to produce a complete Chinese version of Miguel de Cervantes' novel Don Quixote.  In 1988, she published her only novel Baptism, which was always connected with Fortress Besieged, a masterpiece of her husband.  Her 2003 memoir We Three, recalled memories of her husband and her daughter Qian Yuan, who died of cancer one year before her father's death in 1998.  At the age of 96, she published Reaching the Brink of Life, a philosophic work whose title in Chinese clearly alludes to her late husband's collection of essays Marginalia to Life.  She turned 100 in July 2011.The novella After the Baptism, a coda to Baptism, appeared in 2014.  On 25 May 2016, Yang died at the age of 104 at Peking Union Medical College Hospital in Beijing Notable Contemporary Chinese Writers Qian Zhongshu Qian Zhongshu, also transliterated as Ch'ien Chung-shuor Dzien Tsoong-su,is known for his satirical novel Fortress Besieged. His works of nonfiction are characterized by large amount of quotations in both Chinese and Western languages such as English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Latin. Qian's magnum opus is the five-volume Limited Views. Begun in the 1980s and published in its current form in the mid-1990s, it is an extensive collection of notes and short essays on poetics, semiotics, literary history and related topics written in classical Chinese. What is historical fiction? Historical fiction in literature is a genre that combines true historical facts with fictional characters and events, transporting readers to a specific time and place in the past. It involves a careful balance of accurate research and imaginative storytelling to create a believable narrative set in a real or imagined historical context. What are some famous examples of historical fiction? Victor Hugo's The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1831) furnishes another 19th- century example of the romantic-historical novel. Leo Tolstoy's War and Peace offers an example of 19th-century historical fiction used to critique contemporary history. Tolstoy read the standard histories available in Russian and French about the Napoleonic Wars, and used the novel to challenge those historical approaches. Nobel Prize laureate William Golding wrote a number of historical novels. The Inheritors (1955) is set in prehistoric times, and shows "new people" (generally identified with Homo sapiens sapiens) triumphing over a gentler race (generally identified with Neanderthals) by deceit and violence. What are some famous examples of Chinese historical fiction? "Romance of the Three Kingdoms"by Luo Guanzhong -A historical novel set in the turbulent years towards the end of the Han dynasty and the Three Kingdoms period, focusing on the power struggles among warlords. "Water Margin" by Shi Nai’an -This novel tells the story of a group of outlaws who band together to fight against corrupt officials and injustice during the Song dynasty. "Journey to the West" by Wu Cheng’en -A classic tale that combines history, mythology, and adventure, following the monk Xuanzang's pilgrimage to India to retrieve Buddhist scriptures. What are some famous examples of Chinese historical fiction? "Dream of the Red Chamber" by Cao Xueqin -A semi-autobiographical novel that provides a detailed look at the life and social structures of the Qing dynasty through the lens of the Jia family. "The Plum in the Golden Vase" by Lanling Xiaoxiao Sheng -A complex narrative that explores the life of a wealthy merchant and his relationships, reflecting the social and moral issues of the time. "The Story of the Stone" by Cao Xueqin -Also known as "Dream of the Red Chamber," this novel is a rich tapestry of life in 18th-century China, focusing on the decline of a noble family. “To Live” as historical fiction? "To Live" by Yu Hua sa historical novel reflects the socio-political realities of China during the 20th century, particularly the Cultural Revolution. "To Live" reflects the history of China through its portrayal of significant historical events and social changes that shaped the country throughout the 20th century. Here are some key aspects: 1. Socio-Economic Changes: The novel begins in the pre-Communist era, showcasing the life of a wealthy landowner's son, Fugui. As the story progresses, it highlights the drastic socio-economic changes brought about by the Communist Revolution, including land reforms and the redistribution of wealth. “To Live” as historical fiction? 2. Cultural Revolution: The narrative captures the impact of the Cultural Revolution on individuals and families. Fugui's experiences illustrate the chaos, persecution, and ideological fervor that characterized this period, affecting people's lives and relationships. 3. Personal vs. Political: The story emphasizes the tension between personal lives and political ideologies. Fugui's struggles reflect how ordinary people were often caught in the crossfire of political movements, losing their loved ones and facing immense hardships. “To Live” as historical fiction? 4. Historical Context: The novel is set against the backdrop of significant events such as the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution, providing readers with insights into the historical context that shaped modern China.