Selected and Commented Ming-Qing Miniatures: A Masterclass in Chinese Culture and History Classics

Author: Li Meixuan (ed./trans.)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-08-01
Features: "Xiaopin" () typically refers to short prose pieces. Its main characteristics include flexible and free expression, as well as the ability to convey profound ideas in an accessible manner. The content it covers is diverse and unbound by conventions, hence some call it "free-style writing." As a literary form, xiaopin has existed since ancient times, taking various forms—such as classical Chinese, essays, notes, prefaces, epilogues, and letters. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, xiaopin flourished to an unprecedented extent, becoming one of the representative literary genres of those eras. The selected works in this book are representative xiaopin pieces from the Ming and Qing dynasties. The editorial principles are as follows: First, it aims to include both well-known masterpieces by renowned authors and some outstanding, distinctive works that may not be widely recognized, to avoid repetition compared to other anthologies. Second, it strives to feature works by as many different authors as possible, ensuring a diverse range of styles throughout the collection. Third, it balances works from various perspectives and contents to showcase the unique expressive power of xiaopin.