Studies on Ancient Chinese Fiction - Volume 1

Author: Compiled by the Research Center for Ancient Chinese Fiction, Institute of Literature, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-06-01
Features: Novel studies are a relatively vibrant field within the discipline of ancient literature. Several classic works of fiction, such as Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Water Margin, Journey to the West, Golden Lotus, Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio, and Dream of the Red Chamber, each have dedicated academic journals. Period-based studies also have a specialized journal for fiction research. This scenario is uncommon in the fields of poetry and prose. These academic journals for novel studies provide scholars with a platform for discussion and debate, fostering intellectual diversity and supporting numerous middle-aged and young scholars over the years. They continue to make new contributions to the development of novel studies. Given the existence of so many academic journals in the field of novel studies, why compile a new one titled Studies on Ancient Chinese Fiction? While there are indeed many existing journals, a macro perspective reveals that their research framework is not entirely optimal.
First, novel studies should not be entirely concentrated on a few classic works. These classics represent the pinnacle of ancient Chinese fiction art, but they do not encompass the entirety of its history. Many works, though not of the highest artistic or intellectual caliber, have historical significance. Some have even exerted considerable social influence or left a profound impact on literature beyond China's borders. Excluding these works from academic scrutiny would be a regrettable oversight.
Second, classical Chinese fiction studies and vernacular fiction studies have long been separated due to historical reasons, forming two distinct research fields. This artificial division somewhat fractures the inherent historical relationship between classical and vernacular fiction, hindering deeper research. The newly compiled journal aims to bridge this gap, providing a platform for dialogue between the two traditions.
Third, the Ming and Qing dynasties were the mature and peak periods for the development of fiction, but Ming-Qing fiction was not born out of thin air. Fiction has a long and continuous history of evolution and transmission. Research should not be confined solely to Ming-Qing fiction but should adopt a broader historical perspective to grasp the developmental trajectory of the genre. Only with a comprehensive understanding can one make accurate and profound judgments on specific issues.
Based on these considerations, we decided to compile this academic journal that covers the entire history of fiction and various literary forms. Our proposal was met with enthusiastic responses from scholars both domestically and internationally. The College of Humanities at Shanghai Normal University, the School of Literature at Nankai University, the School of Literature at Beijing Normal University, the School of Literature at Capital Normal University, the School of Literature at Harbin Normal University, and the School of Literature at Zhejiang Normal University generously provided financial support, turning this vision into reality. On the occasion of this journal's publication, we sincerely express our gratitude to these institutions.
Over a decade ago, we had already planned to compile Studies on Ancient Chinese Fiction. At that time, we engaged in in-depth discussions with scholars both domestically and internationally, reaching a consensus. Scholars from around the world sent us their latest research findings, and Mr. Qian Zhongshu generously contributed the Chinese and English titles for the journal. Just as we were on the verge of success, an unexpected setback occurred when the publisher we initially partnered with, due to financial constraints, withdrew the manuscript. This delay spanned over a decade. Although most of the articles from the compiled manuscript were eventually published in journals both domestically and internationally, we have long carried a sense of guilt toward the authors and scholars who supported us, especially toward Mr. Qian Zhongshu, who so generously contributed the journal's title.
Today, Studies on Ancient Chinese Fiction is published by the People's Literature Publishing House, finally providing a belated resolution to this matter. Let us once again express our deep appreciation to the academic predecessors and colleagues who have supported this endeavor.