Preface to the Critique of Ancient History

Author: Gu Jiegang
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-12-01
Features: The 20th century has passed, and Chinese historiography has undergone a century of transformation and innovation, a century of prosperity and abundance. The achievements of this century are remarkable, with a succession of renowned scholars, making it worthy of study and summary. The series "Masterpieces of 20th-Century Chinese Historiography" published by this press aims to systematically present the historical achievements of the last century, offering readers the works of the most representative historians. This book primarily reveals that ancient texts since the Warring States, Qin, and Han periods, especially the " Classics," largely contain myths and legends that evolved over time, gradually accumulated through layers of mythological traditions. By doing so, it clears out some of the fantastical pseudo-historical materials in ancient texts, paving the way for a more scientific study of ancient Chinese history. Professor Gu has written extensively on a wide range of topics, often presenting original insights that were previously unexplored. As a result, many of his works could have been included. However, due to the limited scope of this book, only a few essays that relate to his establishment of the concept of "Layered Construction of Ancient Chinese History" and the revelation of the ancient history system of the Three Sovereigns and Five Emperors are selected. These are his primary academic contributions, and from them, one can deduce his position in the history of 20th-century historiography.