Literary figure Chen Duxiu

Author: Shi Zhongyang
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-08-12
Features: In my opinion, Chen Duxiu was first and foremost a cultural leader, and secondarily a political leader. As for culture, the science and democracy he called for possess eternal charm; as for politics, he was a tragic figure. Chen Duxiu in Cai Yuanpei's writings: Twenty-five years ago, when I worked at the Shanghai Jingzhong Bao newspaper office, I knew Chen Zhongfu and deeply admired his perseverance and sense of responsibility. Among modern scholars, the beauty of Chen Duxiu's character is unparalleled.
Chen Duxiu in Lu Xun's writings: If strategy is likened to a warehouse, then Mr. Duxiu's is marked with a large banner outside, reading: "Weapons Inside—Beware!" But the door is open, and a few guns and knives inside are clearly visible, requiring no vigilance.
Chen Duxiu in Xu Zhimo's writings: I examined his appearance—his hair was high, almost reaching the crown, with a sloping forehead. The most striking feature was his straight nose bridge, like a ridge between the eyebrows, sharply defined, as if modeled after modern Expressionist sculptures of African art—unconventional in appearance.
Chen Duxiu in Deng Yizhe's writings: His eyes represent his character: a fixed gaze signifies his emphasis on facts, while a raised gaze reflects his unwavering pursuit of ideals. The opening and closing of his eyes reveal his decisiveness in the face of challenges.
This book focuses on researching all aspects of Chen Duxiu's cultural thought and practice, with abundant materials and broad knowledge. It offers many insightful observations, profound depth, and is written with vigorous style and rich literary flair. Chen Duxiu early advocated democracy and science as the core slogans of the New Culture Movement, and he elaborated on them throughout his life. Democracy and science were not only the soul that permeated all aspects of culture and the entire process of the New Culture Movement but also struck at the core of feudal forces, feudal ideology, conservative notions, ignorance, and superstition in China. They cured the chronic ills of our nation's poverty, weakness, and backwardness, playing a revolutionary role in paving the way for the modernization of politics, economy, culture, and education, correcting deviations, and uprooting evil. They have had a profound impact on China's history. This is also a critical strategic issue for implementing socialist democracy, advancing science and education to revitalize the nation, and achieving modernization today. Chen Duxiu believed that democracy was the fruit of centuries of struggle by oppressed peoples and a lever driving social progress. The democracy of bourgeois society differs from fascism and any other authoritarian regime—it requires specific analysis.