The 1930s Debate on"Reading Classics"and the Subsequent Rein-statement of Classical Studies in Academia
The practice of"Reading Classics"held a significant position in traditional Chinese society and profoundly influenced the East Asian cultural sphere.However,in modern times,it faced comprehensive scrutiny and repeatedly fell into disrepute.During the Qing dynasty and the Re-publican period,three major debates emerged regarding the practice of"Reading Classics"across various societal sectors.All three debates were closely tied to both domestic and international political contexts.Notably,the third debate of the 1930s differed from the previous two in that"Reading Classics"had already been removed from political and educational frameworks and was gradually di-minishing in the public sphere.During this period,the study of Confucian classics transitioned into what is now known as"classics studies",differentiating into modern fields such as history,philoso-phy,and literature.This transition marked a return to academic research and established itself as the ultimate domain of"expert studies".The debate concerning the practice of"Reading Classics"dur-ing this period further alienated various circles from their prior interpretations of the"Classics",which had previously sought to transcend class barriers and achieve practical application.This debate potentially marked a sign in China's academic transformation,intellectual innovation,and evolving social productivity,as well as a significant domain within the context of Sino-Western dialogue.
1930sInstitutionalized practice of'Reading Classics'Historical studiesEx-pertise of specialists
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