New Jingchu Annals of the Times

Author: Han Zhizhong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-03-01
Features: A New Record of the Festivals of Jingchu is a remarkable book that remains widely read to this day. The author, Zong Ling, was from Jiangling in the Southern Dynasties of Xiao. He was well-versed in local customs and had extensive knowledge of historical records. This book documents the seasonal festivals and customs of the Jingchu region, starting from the New Year's Day and ending with the Lantern Festival. Some of the myths, legends, local specialties, and folk customs recorded in it are often missing in other works. Embedded in its rich life-like charm lies broad academic value. This book primarily introduces the festivals and related folk customs of Jingchu in the mid-20th century. That was a period of history experienced by people who are still alive today. Some of the phenomena described are no longer commonly seen now. The term "Jingchu" here refers to the general area of present-day Hubei Province, and its meaning can be considered specific.