Reconstructing classical Chinese fables through modern adaptations: a functional comparative study

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis paper analyses and compares classical Chinese fables and their modern adaptations in the reconstruction of experiential meaning and mediation of attitudinal stance. Drawing upon systemic functional linguistics with a particular focus on transitivity, projection and appraisal, the analysis shows that the adapted texts expand the original in various ways. Experientially the adaptations expand the classical fables through an enhanced description of the possible causes of the significant plot. Furthermore, the adapted dialogues make visible the communicative addressee and enable wider variations in mood. Interpersonally the adapted attitudinal realizations demonstrate variations in terms of the types of attitude and the way to encode attitudinal meanings. It further explores the reasons for the differences between the original and adapted texts in view of the historical development from classical Chinese to modern vernacular as well as the needs of the audience. The findings may shed light on how social and semiotic developments could exert influence on the modern reconstruction of classical texts.