History of the Evolution of Ancient Chinese Novels (Revised Edition)

Author: Qi Yukun
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-10-01
Features: One of the features of this book is that it breaks through the framework of A Brief History of Chinese Fiction in terms of its structure, yet it does not deviate from the principles of writing a general history. While categorizing ancient fiction, it still allows readers to see the chronological development, truly fulfilling the cause and effect of "evolution." Of course, some novels are hybrid works of various genres, and it is not easy to find a proper place for them during the categorization process. Therefore, the classification in this book may not be perfect or flawless for every work. However, A History of the Evolution of Ancient Chinese Fiction certainly offers a new perspective for observation and consideration, providing multiple insights. When reviewing the manuscript, I personally felt that its content not only has a vertical developmental thread but also a horizontal connection, essentially aiming to combine points, surfaces, and lines in the field of ancient Chinese fiction. It can be said that this is indeed a bold and innovative attempt.
The second feature is that the book discusses a wide range of fiction genres, including many works rarely mentioned in general fiction or critical essays, which are all introduced and appropriately evaluated here. This gives readers a fresh perspective. In academic pursuits, we always hope that future generations will surpass the predecessors ("the blue comes from the green" and "the later surpasses the former"). However, predecessors must pave the way and point the direction for the later generations to have the opportunity to surpass them. In this regard, the book appropriately broadens readers' horizons and guides their direction.
The third feature is that the book offers new and more profound and persuasive evaluations of several long classical masterpieces, such as Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Water Margin, The Scholars, and Dream of the Red Chamber.