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Feng Zikai san wen yan jiu = A critical study of Feng Zikai (1898-1975)'s prose
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Type
Thesis
Other titles
丰子恺散文研究
Author
Liang, Wern Fook
Supervisor
Yun, Weili
Abstract
Feng Zikai (1898-1975) stands as a prominent figure in modern Chinese literature. His works, however, have not been adequately mentioned in historical works on modern Chinese literature. This thesis is intended to analyse Feng Zikai's prose with the aim of identifying their unique value, and re-establish his place in modern Chinese literature. It is also hoped to discover new lights on essay writing for present and future writers.
This thesis consists of six chapters. Chapter One is an introduction. The following four chapters present the main arguments and analysis. Chapter Six is the conclusion.
Chapter One explains the motives and purposes as well as the scope and methodology of this study. It reviews works by previous critics on Feng Zikai's prose and aims to point out their inadequacies. It explains the three steps involved in this study: analysis, comparison and evaluation. The main criteria for evaluation will be the characteristic style of Feng Zikai's works. The study focuses on his essays with special reference to his life.
Chapter Two explores the background of Feng Zikai's writing. His life is intimately linked with his writing of each period. His thinking and passions contributes to the quality of his works. His personal life, cultural background, and social background influence him greatly. This can be seen from his writings and paintings. Throughout his life, he pursues the lifestyle of the traditional Chinese scholars and writers.
Chapter Three discusses the subject matter and observation as seen in Feng Zikai's prose. Feng Zikai is a simple and benevolent man. He values life. These are deemed highly in Chinese literary tradition as an important factor of a great writer. Feng Zikais life-embracing and peaceable attitude was not only unique in his time, but also gave his works a timeless, universal quality.
Chapter Four discusses Feng Zikai's writing style and composition framework from four aspects: imagery, description, narration and structure. It analyses the stylistic formation of his prose. Feng Zikai's essays, although written in an easy manner adhere to certain artistic principles. As an artist, Feng Zikai is versatile. He combines his creative prowess with his lofty ideals to form his distinctive style.
Chapter Five deals with Feng Zikai's literary personality. It examines the distinctive characteristics exhibited in his works. In his essays, four aspects of his character can be found: the compassionate humanitarian, the reclusive hermit, the wise man, and the innocent child. These archetypes are not only reminiscent of the characteristics of traditional Chinese writers, but also the attributes of Feng's own character. Together these aspects of personality form the underlying framework of Feng Zikai's prose.
Chapter Six is the conclusion of the study. In terms of literary and aesthetic achievement, Feng Zikai stands on par with other famous writers in the history of Chinese literature. Feng Zikai's essays and paintings share the same simple, elegant, yet fascinating style, reminiscent of traditional Chinese writing and modern Japanese comics. Both his writings and paintings show the same unembellished, natural beauty. Feng Zikai presents himself truly in every form and style of writing. The past century has not seen any writer with a similar style as that of Feng Zikai. The works of Feng Zikai may serve as a model for contemporary and future essay writers.
This thesis consists of six chapters. Chapter One is an introduction. The following four chapters present the main arguments and analysis. Chapter Six is the conclusion.
Chapter One explains the motives and purposes as well as the scope and methodology of this study. It reviews works by previous critics on Feng Zikai's prose and aims to point out their inadequacies. It explains the three steps involved in this study: analysis, comparison and evaluation. The main criteria for evaluation will be the characteristic style of Feng Zikai's works. The study focuses on his essays with special reference to his life.
Chapter Two explores the background of Feng Zikai's writing. His life is intimately linked with his writing of each period. His thinking and passions contributes to the quality of his works. His personal life, cultural background, and social background influence him greatly. This can be seen from his writings and paintings. Throughout his life, he pursues the lifestyle of the traditional Chinese scholars and writers.
Chapter Three discusses the subject matter and observation as seen in Feng Zikai's prose. Feng Zikai is a simple and benevolent man. He values life. These are deemed highly in Chinese literary tradition as an important factor of a great writer. Feng Zikais life-embracing and peaceable attitude was not only unique in his time, but also gave his works a timeless, universal quality.
Chapter Four discusses Feng Zikai's writing style and composition framework from four aspects: imagery, description, narration and structure. It analyses the stylistic formation of his prose. Feng Zikai's essays, although written in an easy manner adhere to certain artistic principles. As an artist, Feng Zikai is versatile. He combines his creative prowess with his lofty ideals to form his distinctive style.
Chapter Five deals with Feng Zikai's literary personality. It examines the distinctive characteristics exhibited in his works. In his essays, four aspects of his character can be found: the compassionate humanitarian, the reclusive hermit, the wise man, and the innocent child. These archetypes are not only reminiscent of the characteristics of traditional Chinese writers, but also the attributes of Feng's own character. Together these aspects of personality form the underlying framework of Feng Zikai's prose.
Chapter Six is the conclusion of the study. In terms of literary and aesthetic achievement, Feng Zikai stands on par with other famous writers in the history of Chinese literature. Feng Zikai's essays and paintings share the same simple, elegant, yet fascinating style, reminiscent of traditional Chinese writing and modern Japanese comics. Both his writings and paintings show the same unembellished, natural beauty. Feng Zikai presents himself truly in every form and style of writing. The past century has not seen any writer with a similar style as that of Feng Zikai. The works of Feng Zikai may serve as a model for contemporary and future essay writers.
Date Issued
1998
Call Number
PL2760.E55 L5
Date Submitted
1998