Selections from Ancient Chinese Literary Works (I)

Author: Yuan Shishuo
Publisher:
Publication Date: 2003-05-01
Features: This book is designed to complement the teaching of literary history courses. It selects and annotates outstanding works from major cultural traditions from the pre-Qin period to the May Fourth New Culture Movement of the 20th century, in chronological order, totaling over 300 authors and more than 1,000 pieces (poems/prose). The selected works primarily consist of historically chosen classic masterpieces, with a focus on the representative works of writers who hold significant positions in literary history. It also considers different schools and styles to align with the textbooks of Chinese literary history, reflecting the characteristics and evolution of ancient Chinese literature. However, since chapter novels are limited in length and generally more accessible to the general audience, they are not excerpted but are instead included in the "Reference Bibliography" of the third and fourth volumes as recommended reading. Dramatic works are also only excerpted from the most renowned plays, focusing on their best scenes and excerpts. The Selected Works of Ancient Chinese Literature is a foundational textbook compiled for students of Chinese literature at the university level. The works selected in this book are primarily based on commonly used ancient texts. Words or phrases that differ from other versions are not annotated separately, but necessary explanations are provided in the notes where appropriate. All selected works are accompanied by necessary annotations. At the end of each volume, a "Reference Bibliography for Teaching" is included to assist teachers in lesson preparation and students in further study and reference.