Revised Edition of the History of Yangzhou Prefecture (Jiaqing Period) (Complete in Two Volumes)

Author: Ake Dang Aixiu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-12-01
Features: The Qing Dynasty was a golden age for the compilation of local chronicles in Yangzhou, where six official prefectural chronicles were successively compiled. These chronicles were highly praised by scholars and had a significant impact on society. Among them, the Jiaqing-era Revised Yangzhou Prefecture Chronicle was particularly lauded by academia and has long been regarded as a masterpiece of the Qing Dynasty. The Supplementary Catalogue of the Complete Library of the Four Treasuries described it as "meticulously researched, extensively cited, and written with precision and conciseness, embodying the methods of a capable official—truly a masterpiece." A comprehensive review of this chronicle reveals numerous outstanding features. Adhering to the principles of chronicle compilation and creating an appropriate structure is one such feature. The compilers emphasized the distinction between chronicles and history, strictly followed the conventions of chronicle writing, meticulously crafted the structure and categories, learned from the strengths of previous prefectural chronicles, and improved upon them based on actual circumstances. Detailed and profound content is another feature. The compilation of this chronicle gathered historical records, official documents, and other literary sources from the Yangzhou Prefecture and its subordinate prefectures and counties. Additionally, twelve special investigators were appointed to gather and compile materials, and many unfinished drafts of Ruan Yuan’s private chronicle Yangzhou Illustrated Gazetteer were included. Highlighting local conditions and distinctive features is yet another feature. The chronicle focused on regional characteristics and emphasized important local policies. Yangzhou has long been a cultural and historical hub, and the chronicle extensively documented its humanistic and literary achievements while vividly recording its famous scenic spots and historical sites. Rigorous research and meticulous discrimination are the fourth feature. During the compilation, the authors adopted a very cautious attitude and rigorous methods, meticulously verifying and carefully distinguishing the sources used, applying the research methods of Qianlong and Jiaqing scholars in the study of classical texts to the compilation of the chronicle.