The Literature of China in the Twentieth Century

The first historical survey of twentieth century Chinese literature, this book focuses on the works produced by and in the tradition of this new intellectual elite. It chronicles the writers who, continuing in the Chinese tradition of using literature to exert moral, social, and political leadership, engaged in the debate over the nature, development and future of Chinese society. Organized chronologically, each section includes an introduction, placing the historical and social context for the ensuing discussions, which are divided into three topical chapters: poetry, fiction, and drama.

Bonnie S. McDougall is professor of Chinese at Edinburgh University and translator of many works of poetry and fiction. She is the author of a number of books, including The Yellow Earth: A Film by Chen Kaige with a Complete Transcript of the Film.Kam Louie is professor of Chinese at the University of Queensland and author of a number of books on Chinese literature and culture. He is coauthor of The Politics of Chinese Language and Culture and editor of Asian Studies Review.