Zhuangzi: A Treasury of National Literature

Author: Han Weizhi (Translation and Review)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-08-01
Features: "Zhuangzi" is one of the extraordinary ancient books of China. The book is profound in philosophy, and due to its ancient age, it can be somewhat challenging for modern readers. This book provides detailed annotations and explanations of "Zhuangzi," offering help to a broad readership in understanding its philosophical depth. It also serves as a reference for theoretical workers and researchers. "Zhuangzi" is divided into three main parts: Inner Chapters, Outer Chapters, and Miscellaneous Chapters. The Inner Chapters consist of seven essays, generally believed to be written by Zhuangzi himself; the Outer Chapters have fifteen essays, and the Miscellaneous Chapters have eleven essays, generally considered to be written by his students or later followers. Overall, the Inner Chapters represent Zhuangzi's highest achievements in both intellectual depth and literary brilliance, making them the essence of the entire book. These essays primarily employ a mix of argumentation and allegory, with very little pure discourse, mainly composed of engaging allegorical stories that form an organized, organic whole. Due to space limitations, this selection of "Zhuangzi" does not typically reproduce the full text but instead carefully chooses chapters and essays that best represent the philosophical and literary characteristics of "Zhuangzi." The translation aims for close correspondence with the original text, but when a direct translation fails to convey the original meaning clearly, the translator adds appropriate explanatory notes, though sparingly. In summary, the purpose of the translation is to help readers understand the original text directly.