Jin Dynasty Literary Figures Chronology (Vol. 1-2)

Author: Wang Qingsheng
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-03-01
Features: In the field of ancient Chinese literature research, the study of Liao and Jin literature seems difficult to become a "prestigious discipline" or a "hot topic." However, what is unexpected is that since the late 20th century, this field has developed unstoppable. I consider myself an early "witness" of the study of Liao and Jin literature, personally experiencing the silent efforts of scholars who take it as their professional direction or supplementary research. They are all academically admirable colleagues, and the achievements in Liao and Jin literature research have increased many times compared to before the "Cultural Revolution." The efforts of these scholars have nurtured numerous solid and innovative results. Among them, Professor Wang Qingsheng is particularly diligent. If academic research relies solely on intelligence, it may not be enough. If a scholar values the pursuit of "popularity" as his own worth, it is questionable whether he truly embodies the character of a scholar. True ancient literature scholars rarely have the chance to become fashionable "stars," but they make unique contributions to human culture. Qingsheng is a modest person, with a low self-position, and seems not to belong to the category of "talented scholars" who can write thousands of words at a glance. But I have always held deep respect for Qingsheng, because in my opinion, he is a true scholar! In recent years, the results he has produced are all known for their thickness and high academic content. Before this "Chronology of Jin Dynasty Literary Figures," Qingsheng published "Chronicles of Jin Poetry" in early 2004, published by Shanghai Ancient Books, which was an expansion and revision based on the compilation of Mr. Chen Yan. He added nearly 240 entries to the original work, and his dedication is truly admirable. The publication of this "Chronology of Jin Dynasty Literary Figures" is an invaluable work in the field of Liao and Jin literature research. As far as I know, Qingsheng spent several years on this achievement. In these years, he focused solely on this work, finally contributing to academia such a powerful and authoritative book. At this time, how many scholars like Qingsheng are there! If we say that "Chronicles" is an expansion and revision based on Chen Yan's original work, then this "Chronology" has more original value. The "Chronology" may not produce a sensational effect, but it requires exceptionally high research level and ability. A chronology must be based on a large amount of research work, presenting a literary figure's life and achievements with detailed documentary evidence. It is already difficult to write a chronology for one person, let alone compiling chronologies for all Jin Dynasty literary figures who have been recorded. This is a monumental task, and the hardships and difficulties involved can be imagined. Of course, Yuan Haowen's "Biographies of Scholars from Zhongzhou" provides Qingsheng with a favorable condition for compiling this "Chronology," but Qingsheng did not stop at the materials provided by "Zhongzhou Collection." Instead, he collected and unearthed many new materials, making the lives and deeds of Jin Dynasty literary figures more vivid and comprehensive. To be honest, I am truly a "novice" when it comes to chronology work, but I am well aware of the immense workload involved, which is daunting for ordinary people. Writing a chronology also requires a broad historical and cultural perspective and foundation. Moreover, mere research is not enough to create a good chronology; the researcher's critical thinking and even philosophical qualities are also quite important. They are hidden within, and Qingsheng's work deeply reflects his reflective temperament in the simple language. This book includes chronologies of 242 literary figures from the Jin Dynasty. Except for Yuan Yushan, whose detailed chronology has already been written by Mr. Miao Yue and Mr. Di Baoxin and is not included, it almost encompasses all writers from the three books "Zhongzhou Collection," "Zhongzhou Yuefu," and "Poetry Collection of the Elders of Hefen." The book is rich in materials and meticulous in research. It is divided into twenty-two volumes and serves as a foundational work in Jin Dynasty literature research, filling a gap and holding significant academic value.