Modern Reading of China's Six Great Classics (Part 1 and Part 2)

Author: Shi Zhongwen
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-05-01
Features: The Ten Arguments of This Book:
Official Argument: On the Duality of Official Status and Ancient Official Culture
Confucian Argument: On the Contradictions and Conflicts Between Confucian Culture and the Six Great Classics
People Argument: On the Survival Status and Survival Culture of Ancient Scholars, Farmers, Artisans, and Merchants
Family Argument: On the Special Role and Far-reaching Influence of Chinese Traditional Culture on the Family
Popular Argument: On the Folk Culture and Historical Characteristics Showcased in the Six Great Classics
Theme Argument: On the Tension and Diversity of Theme Expression
Narrative Argument: On the Unique Traits and Style of Chinese Narrative Studies
Typical Argument: On the Typical Characters and Artistic Quality of the Six Great Classics
Style Argument: On the Complexity and Diversity of Style in the Six Great Classics
Language Argument: On the Chinese Aesthetic Manifestation of the Six Great Classics
This book is a popular and appreciative work that comprehensively interprets the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Water Margin, Journey to the West, Dream of the Red Chamber, Golden Lotus, and The Scholars. It is divided into two parts—cultural reading and artistic reading—with each part further divided into five arguments. The unique concept of this book lies in using historical culture as an observational perspective and focusing on topics that people care about in real life. From this, it identifies ten fundamental topics, delving deeply into and analyzing them, truly making the Six Great Classics a mirror of contemporary society. Not only does it show the "scenery in the mirror," but it also examines the "people in the mirror."
This book emphasizes comparison, not only making vertical comparisons—using the past to illustrate the present and to reflect on the present—but also horizontal comparisons—comparing the unique features of the Six Great Classics in terms of structure, theme, characters, settings, language, style, sentiment, and philosophy. This helps readers more vividly understand the profound depth of these classics. To enhance the readability and appreciation of this book, the author strives to include beautiful passages, select insightful arguments, present deep yet accessible explanations, and cater to both refined and popular tastes in writing and narrative.