Chinese literature

Si maqian

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Bai Juyi by Chen Hongshou

Wenchang

VM 4652 Wuchang Chongwen Book City

Chinese literature is one of the major literary heritages of the world, with an uninterrupted history dating back to the earliest historical records in China, around the 14th century BC. It encompasses a wide range of literary genres and forms, including poetry, fiction, drama, and philosophical and historical texts. The development of Chinese literature has been closely intertwined with the country's history, culture, and language, reflecting the changes in society, politics, and thought over millennia.

History

The history of Chinese literature can be divided into several periods, each marked by significant developments in literary forms, themes, and language.

Ancient Literature

The earliest phase of Chinese literature is known as the Classical or Ancient period, which extends from the earliest dynastic records through the end of the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD). This period is renowned for its foundational texts, including the I Ching (Book of Changes), the Five Classics which encompass a wide range of texts from poetry to historical documents, and the Four Books, which are central to Confucian thought. The most notable work of poetry from this period is the Shijing (Book of Songs), a collection of 305 poems that range from folk songs to ceremonial hymns.

Medieval Literature

The period from the Jin Dynasty (265–420) to the fall of the Southern Song Dynasty (1279) is considered the medieval period of Chinese literature. This era saw the flourishing of Tang poetry, regarded by many as the pinnacle of Chinese poetic expression, and the development of Song poetry, which refined the art of lyrical poetry. The Tang Dynasty also witnessed the creation of the ci (lyric poetry) form, which became highly popular during the Song Dynasty. Prose literature also developed during this period, with the emergence of the zuihitsu-style essays and travel writing.

Modern and Contemporary Literature

The modern period of Chinese literature began in the late Qing Dynasty (1644–1912) and has continued into the contemporary era. This period is characterized by the May Fourth Movement in 1919, which advocated for the use of vernacular Chinese and the adoption of Western literary forms and ideas. Modern Chinese literature has seen the emergence of various literary movements, including realism, romanticism, and modernism, with prominent authors such as Lu Xun, Ba Jin, and Eileen Chang making significant contributions. Contemporary Chinese literature continues to evolve, with the rise of the internet and new media offering both challenges and opportunities for writers.

Genres and Forms

Chinese literature encompasses a variety of genres and forms, including:

- Poetry: One of the oldest and most revered forms of Chinese literature, with a history that spans from the Shijing to contemporary internet poetry. - Prose: Encompassing historical texts, philosophical works, novels, and short stories. - Drama: Chinese drama includes traditional forms such as Peking opera and modern plays. - Novels: The novel became a prominent form of literature during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, with works such as Dream of the Red Chamber considered masterpieces.

Language

The language of Chinese literature has evolved over time. Classical Chinese literature was written in Classical Chinese, a written form of the language that remained relatively unchanged for centuries. With the May Fourth Movement, there was a shift towards using Vernacular Chinese in literature, making it more accessible to the general population.

Influence

Chinese literature has had a profound influence on the literary traditions of neighboring countries, including Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. It has also been increasingly recognized and appreciated in the global literary community, with several Chinese authors receiving international awards and recognition.