In those years, the scholars and intellectuals of modern China

Author: Chen Pingyuan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-06-01
Features: The collected essays focus on professional insights, differing from biographies of writers. However, the intended readers remain the general public. As such, the content leans toward the spiritual, temperament, and interests of the figures, rather than their political or academic achievements. The book aims to bring many fascinating and spirited scholars and writers out of their professional circles, allowing the public to appreciate and admire them. This is the modest ambition of the book. As for expanding the scope of "" from Kang Youwei and Zhang Taiyan of the late Qing Dynasty to figures like Jin Kemu and Cheng Qianfan who passed away just a few years ago, it is because I firmly believe that my esteemed mentors, with whom I had the privilege to study, also deserve appreciation and reflection from future generations.
The author, in the form of essays, guides readers back to the historical scene. The book targets a general audience, telling the stories of 21 renowned figures and masters, each detailing the unique spirit, temperament, interests, and personal charm of 21 prominent thinkers, cultural figures, and scholars active in the fields of thought, culture, and academia over the past century.
The last "King's Teacher" of the "" would like to find a reason to explain the origin of writing the book. A hundred and forty years after its birth? Too early; seventy years after its death? Also too early. The Hundred Days' Reform was the pinnacle of Kang Youwei's (1858–1927) life's work, making it a good time to write an article. Unfortunately, the centennial commemoration cannot be advanced. The "Petition on the Carriage" did occur in 1895, marking the symbol of Kang Youwei's official entry onto the political stage. Let many fascinating and spirited scholars and writers step out of their professional circles to be appreciated and admired by the public.