Classic Picture Reading · Zhuangzi

Author: Zhuang Zhou (Warring States Period) Chen Guying Wang Jiaren
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-11-01
Features: The flourishing debates among the pre-Qin philosophers marked a golden age in the history of Chinese thought. Among the major schools such as Confucianism, Taoism, Mohism, and Legalism, Zhuangzi stands as the culmination of Taoist thought. Philosophically, Zhuangzi had a profound influence on later scholars, particularly inspiring the dialectical thinking of Wei-Jin Xuanxue and Chan Buddhism. In literature, his unique style also served as a source of inspiration for later romanticist creations. However, due to the boundless and imaginative nature of Zhuangzi's writings, which often take the form of allegorical tales, they have posed challenges for later readers, resulting in a vast number of commentaries of varying quality. This book combines the strengths of various interpretations to provide a complete of the Zhuangzi. Accompanying the text are 597 illustrations, including ancient woodblock prints, Han Dynasty stone reliefs, calligraphy and paintings by ancient scholars, photographs of cultural relics from the pre-Qin period, and images of ancient book editions. Additionally, 182 traditional Chinese paintings, specially created by contemporary artists for the Zhuangzi, complement the text. The images and text interact and interpret each other, creating a harmonious and perfect combination.