Introduction to Famous Chinese and Foreign Classics (Color Illustration Edition)

Author: Li Jie
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-05-01
Features: Provides an overview of Chinese literature, combining appreciative and knowledge-based approaches to interpret classic works. 700 exquisite color illustrations guide readers in harmonizing thought and text, compiling nearly 100 world literary classics.
The Book of Songs is one of the two major sources of classical Chinese poetry. Its authors came from various social strata, and its origins spanned a wide geographical area. In addition to the court songs composed by the music officials of the Zhou Dynasty and the offerings presented by high-ranking officials and scholars, there were also many folk songs that had been circulating among the people. These folk songs were collected by dedicated song gatherers sent by the Zhou Dynasty to the countryside to understand the political education, customs, and the pros and cons of societal decline and prosperity. The musicians of the various vassal states, who made singing and composing their profession, also gathered folk songs to enrich their lyrics and melodies. These songs were then presented to the Son of Heaven by the vassal states, and thus, these folk songs were gathered into the imperial court. The court songs collected from different eras and regions were generally believed to be preserved by the master music officials in the Zhou royal court. The collection, organization, and creation of folk songs were also part of the cultural endeavors of the Zhou Dynasty.