Midea's Spiritual Journey: From Laozi to Wang Guowei

Author: Pan Yungao
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-08-01
Features: The history of Chinese aesthetics is long-standing and vast, with an extremely rich body of material. When writing this book, it was merely like gathering a little bit of light from among countless brilliant stars. Now, it is presented to the readers, and it is inevitable to share some personal reflections on learning the history of Chinese aesthetics before the book. This reminds me of the story in "Liezi · Yang Zhu," where a man exposes himself to the sun, unaware of the existence of grand mansions with luxurious furnishings and warm robes. He turns to his wife and says, "The warmth of the sun on my back is unknown to others. If I offer it to my lord, I will surely receive a great reward." When I share my insights into the history of Chinese aesthetics with the general readers, I inevitably face the criticism of being a "wild man offering sunshine." Fortunately, what brings me some comfort is that I do not have any deliberate intention of seeking "great rewards," and thus I do not mind the mockery.
Reflections on Learning the History of Chinese Aesthetics:
1. Understanding some Chinese philosophy;
2. Having a sense of history;
3. Recognizing the developmental and evolutionary process of the history of aesthetics;
4. Grasping the characteristics of Chinese aesthetics.
This book includes the discussions of Laozi on beauty and wonder, the pursuit of the Dao and aesthetics; Confucius on the inspirational, observational, communal, and resentful aspects of poetry, the relationship between benevolence and beauty, and his advocacy of the moderate aesthetic view; Mozi's critique of music; and Mencius's pursuit of personal moral beauty. The book selects the philosophical and aesthetic insights of great masters from Laozi to Wang Guowei in history. It allows readers to experience and understand beauty within the long river of Chinese aesthetics.