Introduction to the History of Modern Chinese Language

Author: Diao Yanbin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-10-01
Features: Over the years, I have been mostly immersed in exploring specific issues: from the meaning or usage changes of a single word to the development of numerous linguistic phenomena in a particular period. I have also been thinking about the need to reflect on and summarize my past research at a higher level, engaging in rational thinking to ensure that Modern Chinese History, as a new branch of discipline, can truly stand on its own and ultimately withstand the test of history. About two years ago, I finally found the time to do this work, which led to the publication of the companion volumes A History of Modern Chinese and An Introduction to the History of Modern Chinese. The former focuses on "history," while the latter emphasizes "theory." A History of Modern Chinese was officially published by Fujian People's Publishing House earlier this year. Although the book contains over 400,000 words and discusses more systematic, comprehensive, and in-depth content than before, it still falls short of my vision for a final version of the history of modern Chinese. Therefore, I prefer to call it An Outline of the History of Modern Chinese or A Draft of the History of Modern Chinese. As for this An Introduction to the History of Modern Chinese, it largely reflects my current understanding of the history of modern Chinese. The book covers the essential elements that support a discipline, including its definition, rationale, periodization, research content, research methods, relationships with related disciplines, and the significance and value of the research. It also provides a brief review and summary of the current research progress in the field. I believe that through these discussions, readers can gain a relatively comprehensive understanding of the history of modern Chinese. Of course, given my level and capabilities, there is still significant room for improvement in both depth and breadth of the related arguments. We also hope to continuously summarize and explore in future research practices to achieve a higher level of understanding.