Excerpt from Two Chinese Poets: Vignettes of Han Life and Thought
In order to check on these various impressions I made a special study of Lu Chi's Wen F n (prose-poem on the Art of Letters) written in ad. 301-302. That study proved highly illuminating as to methods of approach to the classi cal literature: first, find a document of manageable propor tions, of certain authorship, certain date, and practically in dubitable text, and then follow where it leads. This conclu sion lies behind my book on the Wen F it published in 1951 (bollingen Series, No. Xx1x, New York, Pantheon Press).
The next step was then clear. Two acknowledged masters of double-harness description of objects (m) were Pan Ku and Chang Heng, and within twenty to thirty years of each other they had composed their respective F n on the Two Capitals. Here were dateable documents by well-known au thors, the extant texts in most admirable condition. Further, the two authors had under contemplation the previous Han regime in contrast to their own. What more could an ideo logical historian want in the way of reliable and illuminating data? In this fashion I came to these special studies, came to write this book. Three considerations dominate its method: (1) to get at the texture of the minds of the two authors and their contemporaries; (2) placing the authors in the witness box as to Han beliefs and institutions, to estimate their reliability; (3) to explicate the particular matters on which they gave evidence.
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Paperback. Condition: New. Print on Demand. This book delves into the fascinating world of Han Dynasty China, offering a unique perspective on history through the lens of poetry. The author meticulously examines four "fu" poemsââ âdescriptive poetic essaysââ âby renowned scholars Pan Ku and Chang Heng, focusing on their depictions of the Western and Eastern Capitals, Chang'an and Loyang. These poems, written within decades of each other, provide invaluable insights into the political, social, and cultural landscapes of the era. By comparing and contrasting the two authors' portrayals, this book unveils the intricate tapestry of Han Dynasty society. It delves into the minds of these influential figures, exploring their thoughts on imperial power, philosophical values, and the role of Confucianism. The author meticulously analyzes the poems' rich language and imagery, drawing connections to historical events and broader intellectual currents. Through this exploration, the book sheds light on the complexities of Han Dynasty rule, questioning whether it was an autocracy or a theocracy and examining the impact of empire on the Chinese people's sense of identity. It also delves into the rise of humanitarian ethics, the importance of filial piety, and the expansion of education during this pivotal period. Ultimately, this book offers a profound understanding of Han Dynasty China and its enduring legacy. It reveals how these ancient poems provide a window into the past, illuminating the values, beliefs, and aspirations of a civilization that continues to shape the world today. This book is a reproduction of an important historical work, digitally reconstructed using state-of-the-art technology to preserve the original format. In rare cases, an imperfection in the original, such as a blemish or missing page, may be replicated in the book. print-on-demand item. Seller Inventory # 9780282517618_0
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PAP. Condition: New. New Book. Shipped from UK. Established seller since 2000. Seller Inventory # LW-9780282517618
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PAP. Condition: New. New Book. Shipped from UK. Established seller since 2000. Seller Inventory # LW-9780282517618
Quantity: 15 available