Examining the Impact of Chinese Literature

For centuries, Chinese literature has had a profound influence around the world. From its ancient philosophical texts to the contemporary fiction that has captivated readers of all ages, China has an extensive catalogue of celebrated works. As such, this rich and varied literature has had a major cultural impact since its emergence centuries ago.

In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at the fascinating world of Chinese literature, the different ways it has influenced global culture, and why it’s still inspiring readers today.

Ancient Writings

Chinese literature dates all the way back to 1000 BC, but the oldest surviving works are from the 4th and 5th centuries. During this period, works of literature were largely divided into philosophical and historical texts.
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Ancient Chinese literature is primarily known for its philosophical documents, which not only discussed morality, but also celebrated the achievements of the ruling class. One of the most popular of these texts was the Tao Te Ching, written by the philosopher Lao-Tzu. It outlined a set of doctrines intended to enlighten followers and allow them to lead a moral life. The work was incredibly influential, inspiring texts like The Art of War and inspiring Mahatma Gandhi's teachings of nonviolence.

Literary Milestones

In the centuries that followed, Chinese literature continued to evolve and shaped the country’s culture in the process. The period known as the “Golden Age” marked a major development with the emergence of novelists such as Wu Ch’eng-en, who wrote the famous novel, Journey to the West.
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Another influential milestone was the Qing Dynasty, which saw the birth of a range of popular works including the Dream of the Red Chamber and the Water Margin. During this period, literature started to take on more of a narrative style and featured detailed character development and complex plots.

Modern Impact

In modern times, Chinese literature has become synonymous with writers such as Mo Yan and Ha Jin—both renowned for their meticulous re-creation of historical figures and events in their works. These novels often draw heavily on Chinese culture, offering an insightful look at the struggles faced by rural communities in their depiction of life in the countryside.

What’s more, these works of literature have had an impact beyond China’s borders. Internationally-recognized authors such as Gao Xingjian, who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2000, and Liu Cixin, whose novel The Three-Body Problem won the Hugo Award for Best Novel in 2015, continue to put Chinese literature in the spotlight.

Conclusion

Chinese literature has undergone an incredible transformation since its formative years centuries ago and continues to captivate contemporary readers. Its enduring impact can be seen in philosophical works that inspired Gandhi’s moral teachings and internationally acclaimed novels that offer a vivid glimpse into Chinese culture and tradition.

Overall, Chinese literature has had a lasting influence and offers a unique insight into the country’s rich cultural heritage.