History of the History of Chinese Historiography. Volume 3: The Development of Ancient Chinese Historiography During the Wei, Jin, Southern and Northern Dynasties, Sui, and Tang Periods

Author: Qu Lindong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-01-01
Features: This book is the third volume of A History of Chinese Historiography, edited by Mr. Bai Shouyi during his lifetime. It discusses the overall development and major achievements of historiography during the periods of the Wei, Jin, Southern and Northern Dynasties, Sui, and Tang dynasties. This volume largely follows the general approach to writing the history of Chinese historiography as proposed by Mr. Bai Shouyi in the introduction of the volume, while in specific discussions and related comments, it reflects more the academic accumulation and research insights of the author of this volume. The chapter serves as the general outline of the entire book, discussing historical characteristics that summarize the historical conditions of historiographical development; it also covers the trends of historiographical development, summarizing the overall appearance of historiography during this period. The three stages, six turning points, and three innovations proposed are a rough sketch of this overall appearance. Chapters 2 and 3 introduce and comment on the thirteen "orthodox histories" produced during this period. Since they account for more than half of the existing "Twenty-Four Histories," they play a significant role and meaning in recording the historical process of Chinese civilization, and thus are introduced and commented on in greater detail. Chapters 4, 5, 6, and 9 discuss major turning points, significant innovations, or characteristic features of historiographical development during this period, all of which expand on and delve deeper into the general outline of the chapter. They reflect the vivid and dynamic nature of this period's development from different perspectives. Chapters 7 and 8 discuss Shitong by Liu Zhiqi and Tongdian by Du Zuo. The former represents a major development in historiographical theory, while the latter is a model work of a dynastic and institutional history. The former made numerous original contributions to historiographical theory, while the latter had no significant breakthroughs in historical theory, both holding epoch-making significance in Chinese historiography. Chapters 10 and 11, the last two chapters, attempt to summarize the theoretical achievements of historiography during this period. The former focuses on the achievements in historiographical theory, while the latter on the achievements in historical theory. They more reflect the content and writing style of this volume. The book includes: the historical context and characteristics and trends of historiographical development during the Wei, Jin, Southern and Northern Dynasties, Sui, and Tang dynasties; the flourishing of "orthodox history" writing; and the further development of "orthodox history" writing, among other topics.