Selected Works of Zhuangzi

Author: Bao Sitao
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-08-01
Features: The original Zhuangzi consists of fifty-two chapters, with thirty-three extant. Generally, the "Inner Chapters" () are considered the works of Zhuangzi himself, including "Free and Easy Wandering," "On the Equality of Things," "On Preserving Life," "The World of Men," "On the Virtue of the Incorruptible," "The Grand Master," and "On the Sovereign." Except for a few places, they are all Zhuangzi's works. The "Outer Chapters" () were written by Zhuangzi's disciples, elaborating on his teachings. The "Miscellaneous Chapters" () include four chapters generally believed to be forgeries added by later generations: "On Renouncing the Throne," "On the Robber Zhi," "On the Sword," and "On the Fisherman." The rest are mostly considered the works of Zhuangzi's school. The Zhuangzi is a unique gem in the treasure trove of pre-Qin Chinese philosophy and literature. Its independent spirit, romantic tone, magnificent style, and overflowing talent have profoundly influenced later philosophy and literature. It not only became a classic of Taoism but also served as a model for later prose writers. Today, when interpreting this complex and diverse masterpiece with extraordinary artistic charm, it is even more important to approach it dialectically, to accept and reject where necessary, truly absorbing the essence while discarding the dross.