Jin Shengtan's Criticism of Water Margin

The established status of classic works in Chinese literary history is, of course, primarily due to the unique charm of these masterpieces themselves. However, it is also greatly influenced by the vigorous critiques and commentaries of a large number of discerning novel critics after their publication. Names like Li Zhuowu, Jin Shengtan, Mao Zonggang, and Zhi Yanzhai are closely associated with Journey to the West, Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Water Margin, and Dream of the Red Chamber. They not only pioneered a new era in the history of Chinese classical novel criticism, but also enabled readers to gain a deeper understanding of the essence and charm of these classics through their criticism. The popular rumour that Jin Shengtan cut Water Margin in half is a familiar one. For nearly two hundred years, after Jin Shengtan published his Guanhuatang edition, people were unaware of the existence of the 100- and 120-chapter versions. Since Zheng Zhenduo and others unearthed the so-called complete Water Margin, Jin Shengtan's 70-chapter version has rarely been seen in its true form. So, was Jin Shengtan's critical version of "Water Margin" cut in half? Why did he cut it in half? What exactly is the 70-chapter version of "Water Margin" and Jin Shengtan's criticism like? Does the 70-chapter version of "Water Margin" that he criticized have its own unique charm? I believe readers will find the answers to these questions after reading this critical version and will sincerely admire Jin Shengtan's courage and talent. Jin Shengtan's unique insights and unique language will also be refreshing to readers. His theory of character "personality" holds a unique place in the history of Chinese novel criticism.

2024-01-01

岳麓书社

1332

9787553819600