Mathematical Criticism and the Examination of Novels

Author: Du Guichen
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-01-01
Features: The topics and writing of each chapter in the book are closely related to the previous volume. As indicated by the title, the content mainly includes two aspects: First, the "mathematical-critical" approach to literature, which is essentially "fabricated"; second, "critical studies of fiction" primarily focused on classical works, either questioning existing theories or proposing and attempting to solve specific problems. Although both aspects are mainly about fiction, the former tends to discuss the universal principles of literature, while the latter focuses on specific issues of fiction, hence divided into two parts. The essays in the first part are about the research on the "mathematical-critical" approach to literature, continuing the author's reflections on literary mathematical issues such as the "three repetitions" plot while teaching at Qufu Normal University in Shandong. They were written during the period from being transferred to Hebei University to later being transferred to Shandong Normal University. It includes the establishment and elaboration of the "literary mathematical criticism" theory and an applied attempt mainly using Journey to the West as the research object. The essays in the second part were mostly written around the same time as those in the first part, with content focusing on the critical studies of specific issues related to ancient fiction writers and works. The content, on the positive side, is quite broad, but experts might see it as somewhat scattered, though there are several key points of reflection.