Three thousand years of cultural catastrophe

Author: Xie Canglin Wan Fangzhen
Publisher:
Publish Date: 1996-07-01
Features: This book covers a wide range of "literary calamities" (wen huò), making it even difficult to define "rectification." Initially, the authors planned to focus solely on typical cases of literary persecution, where individuals suffered solely due to their writings or literary works. However, they later discovered that many cases were not so straightforward. Moreover, in cases of slander, memorial remonstrances, or even imperial examinations, there were numerous instances of literary persecution or "quasi-literary persecution" that could not be ignored. As a result, these were also included under the umbrella of "literary calamities." Thus, the "literary calamities" discussed in this book encompass multiple meanings, including the (calamity) of language and literature, as well as the (calamity) of scholars and literati. Additionally, to broaden readers' perspectives and deepen their understanding, the book includes several counterexamples or marginal materials. For those who seek deeper insights and wish to tackle the hard nuts of "literary calamities," such as: "How many types of literary calamities exist? What are their roots? What harm do they pose to human civilization? What are the commonalities and differences of literary calamities across different dynasties in history? How have they evolved over the past 3,000 years?" this book can serve as a reference for self-discovery and answers.