Cross-Cultural Dialogue and Synthesis (Contemporary American Drama in China)

Author: Wu Wenquan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-11-01
Features: This book analyzes the various responses triggered in China after the introduction of contemporary American drama, and studies the outcomes of the collision between two cultures with different backgrounds. The book cites extensive references and offers thorough analysis. To some extent, it helps fill the gaps in Chinese theater culture. One of the biggest strengths of the book is that the author has thoroughly researched the material, allowing history to speak for itself. The book discusses numerous cases of American dramas being performed in China, often reminding me of the immense enthusiasm in China's cultural circles in the early 1980s for translating and introducing foreign dramas. Some of these performances themselves became sensational "cultural events." As participants and witnesses to these events, discussing the historical records brings a sense of familiarity. Cross-Cultural Dialogue and Synthesis: Contemporary American Drama in China is rich in primary sources, meticulously analyzed, and systematically sorts out the trajectory and patterns of translation, performance, criticism, and the acceptance, adaptation, and integration of contemporary American drama in China over the past half-century. It also summarizes some laws of cultural exchange and highlights the issues the author wishes to address. The book largely adopts the theoretical framework of comparative literature, using vivid materials and analysis to elucidate and enrich concepts related to comparative literature, comparative drama, and cultural communication studies. It also helps readers understand the current status and development of contemporary American drama and contemporary Chinese drama.