Abstract
This dissertation studies the poetics of five American sinologists, including Chen Shih-Hsiang, James J. Y. Liu, Kao Yu-Kung, Wai-Lim Yip, and Stephen Owen. These five individuals contribute to the modern transformation of classical literature by offering new perspectives or methodologies for reinterpreting classical works. Each of them has established a unique contribution: Chen Shih-Hsiang’s Lyrical Tradition Theory, James J. Y. Liu’s departure from traditional historical categorization by incorporating Western theoretical frameworks to reorganize Chinese literary resources, Kao Yu-Kung’s integration of aesthetic principles into poetics while continuing the lyrical tradition theory, Wai-Lim Yip’s pioneering work in comparative poetics, inventing Taoist Aesthetics, and Stephen Owen’s exploration of new areas in Tang poetry history. These conceptual and methodological approaches differ from those prevalent in the contemporary Chinese literary community and have had a wide-ranging impact on it.This dissertation provides a comprehensive overview of the five scholars’ poetics, seeking to achieve the following research goals: Firstly, this study explores the essence of classical Chinese poetics through an in-depth analysis of the works of five prominent American sinologists. Secondly, it further elucidates the merits and shortcomings of their criticism. Thirdly, it critically reflects on existing research within the Chinese literary community, addressing areas of controversy or misunderstanding. The aim of this research is to contribute to a deeper understanding and revitalization of the classical literary tradition, facilitating its modern transformation and providing valuable insights.
| Date of Award | 2023 |
|---|---|
| Original language | Chinese (Traditional) |
| Supervisor | Mei-Tzu Tsai (Supervisor) |