Narrative in Guoyu and Its Implied Perspective on Moral History(Part A)
Guoyu is one of the original Chinese classics.In recent years,most academic researches on its narrative have been conducted from the perspective of Western narratology.However,we believe that narrative research should not be limited to methods and techniques;it should also delve into the realms of historical and cultural studies.The narrative of Guoyu can be briefly analyzed from the following four aspects.First,the selection of material.The historical events of the Western Zhou and Spring and Autumn periods are extensive and diverse,yet the themes of Guoyu focus on admonition.Most of the stories either directly or indirectly exhibit this theme,expressing the interests and demands of the upper noble class.Second,rhetoric.The most representative feature is the use of qualitative words.For example,stories marked by the word"admonish"often follow a structure of"admonishment-being ignored,"which creates a sense of tension and allows readers to enjoy ethical and moral enlightenment while appreciating the narrative.Another example is the use of the word"tyranny"to establish a tone for the antagonists and their stories,emphasizing the power of moral judgment.However,such rhetorical devices may severely hinder the understanding of the essence of history from its economic and social roots.Third,quotations.Citing ancient sages and wise men becomes an important means to enhance persuasiveness.During the Western Zhou and early Spring and Autumn periods,especially in states with deep Zhou cultural traditions like Zhou,Lu,and Zheng,there are more citations from the Book of Songs and Book of Documents.In contrast,during the middle to late Spring and Autumn periods,particularly in states undergoing Sinicization like Chu,Wu,and Yue,there are fewer citations from classical texts and more historical arguments and practical analyses,which highlight the phased development of history and the regional characteristics of culture.Fourth,commentary.After narrating certain stories,the authors use phrases like"A gentleman said,""Confucius said,"or"A certain minister said"to evaluate characters and comment on events.This indicates that the discourse of a few"morally superior"elite individuals had considerable social influence within a certain range.In summary,the narrative of Guoyu demonstrates a strong moral color and expresses the interests and demands of the upper noble class,closely aligning with the so-called aristocratic republican spirit of later generations.As a significant classic of Chinese culture for over two thousand years,it has been recited and praised by scholars throughout history.
Guoyuhistorical narrativeperspective on moral history
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