Biography and Works of Sima Qian: A Critical Study

Author: Yuan Chuanzhang
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-12-01
Features: This book is a summary of the author's three decades of research on Sima Qian and Records of the Grand Historian. Employing the concept of "transformation" and guided by macro thinking, it is grounded in micro-examinations, drawing on the pragmatic methodology of Anhui-style studies. It emphasizes the integration of internal evidence, external evidence, and archaeological findings. In major issues of "Shiji Studies," such as the relationship between Records of the Grand Historian and Chinese civilization, unresolved mysteries surrounding Sima Qian's life, the origin of the current edition of Records of the Grand Historian, the review of various theories on its chronological limits, the three revisions of its narrative scope and the evolution of its central themes, and the authentication of the lost Commentary on the Records of the Grand Historian, the author has achieved significant breakthroughs. The book is distinguished by its thorough arguments, meticulous research, insightful perspectives, and originality. The fifth collection includes the biographies of Tao Yuanming and Li Qingzhao, which are the author's practice works in the historical narrative style of Sima Qian, written for the Biographies of Outstanding Figures of the Chinese Nation series by the China Youth Press. They are also highly expressive. This book is suitable for undergraduate and graduate students in literature and history, scholars, and a broad readership.