Chu Ci Plant Illustrated Dictionary

Author: Pan Fujun
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-01-01
Features: Presents 100 species of southern plants from important chapters of the Chuci, helping readers understand the ingenuity of literary figures and grasp the true meaning of classic texts. Across centuries, let us join the ancients in their literary journey and experience the enduring vitality of literature. This book creatively merges natural science with classical literature, applying the techniques of illustrated reference books to the field of Chinese classical literature. With clear explanations and vivid photographs, it introduces various fragrant and foul plants from the Chuci. The Chuci often uses fragrant and foul plants to metaphorically represent loyal and treacherous individuals, exerting a profound influence on later generations. Beyond pioneering the literary tradition of depicting objects through comparison and allusion, it also led scholars to chant and recite these texts, forming a rigid set of values toward plants. Orchids and lilies are beautiful, while artemisia and other weeds are coarse, creating a stark divide between black and white, as if they cannot coexist. However, the author of this book meticulously clarifies the ecological characteristics of these plants, breaking down the dichotomy between beauty and ugliness, offering a unique perspective.